Creator Homer | ||
Similar Dardanus, Laomedon, Teucer, Helenus, Anchises | ||
In Greek mythology, Tros (Greek: Τρώς) was the founder of Troy and the son of Erichthonius by Astyoche (daughter of the river god Simoeis) or of Ilus I, from whom he inherited the throne. Tros was the father of three sons: Ilus, Assaracus, and Ganymede. He is the eponym of Troy, also named Ilion for his son Ilus. Tros's wife was said to be Callirrhoe, daughter of the river god Scamander, or Acallaris, daughter of Eumedes.
When Zeus abducted Ganymedes, Tros grieved for his son. Sympathetic, Zeus sent Hermes with two horses so swift they could run over water. Hermes also assured Tros that Ganymede was immortal and would be the cupbearer of the gods, a position of great distinction.
In variant versions Ganymede is son of Laomedon son of Ilus son of Tros; yet others call him son of Ilus, Erichthonius or Assaracus.
It was from Tros that the Dardanians were called Trojans and the land named the Troad.