Lapithae

lap'i-the, in Greek legend, a race of Thessaly, descendants of Lapithes. Lapithes was a son of Apollo and a brother of Centaurus. Pirithous was the ruler of the Lapithae. On the occasion of his marriage to Hippodamia the Centaurs were invited to be present. One of them, Eurytion, became intoxicated and attempted to carry off the bride. The other Centaurs came to his assistance, while Pirithous and the Lapithae defended Hippodamia. The Lapithae were victorious. This contest was a favorite subject with sculptors and poets. The scene is represented on the Parthenon, the Theseum at Athens, the temple of Apollo at Basso, and on many vases. Raphael used the subject for a painting. See Pirithous