TE´RIAS
TE´RIAS (
Τηρίας:
Fiume di S. Leonardo), a river of Sicily, on the E. coast of the island, flowing into the sea between Catana and Syracuse.
It is mentioned by Pliny (
3.8. s. 14) immediately after the Syimaethus; and Scylax tells us it was navigable for the distance of 20 stadia up to Leontini. (Scyl. p. 4.13.) Though this last statement is not quite accurate, inasmuch as Leontini is at least 60 stadia from the sea, it leaves little doubt that the river meant is that now called the
Flume di S. Leonardo, which flows from the
Lake of Lentini (which is not mentioned by any ancient author) to the sea.
It has its outlet in a small bay or cove, which affords a tolerable shelter for shipping. Hence we find the mouth of the Terias twice selected by the Athenians as a halting-place, while proceeding with their fleet along the E. coast of Sicily. (
Thuc. 6.50,
96.)
The connection of the Terias with Leontini is confirmed by Diodorus, who tells us that Dionysius encamped on the banks of that river near the city of Leontini. (
Diod. 14.14.)
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E.H.B]
