kentauromachia

Greek mythology

Also known as: centauromachy

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Last updated

July 17, 2026

Quick Summary

The Kentauromachia, or battle of the Lapiths and Centaurs, is a significant event in Greek mythology. It recounts the conflict that arose when the Centaurs, a race of creatures that were part man and part horse, attempted to abduct the bride and her attendants at the wedding of Pirithous, the king of the Lapiths.12

This violent act led to a fierce battle between the Lapiths and the Centaurs. The Centaurs, known for their wild and lawless nature, were ultimately defeated and driven from their home on Mount Pelion. This myth was a popular subject in ancient Greek art, often depicted as a struggle between civilization and barbarism.12

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Theseum
…hand, the western one a kentauromachia (battle of centaurs). The temple is of Pentelic marble—except for the foundation and the lowest stylobate step, which are of Piraic stone, and the frieze of the cella, which is Parian marble. Fragments of the polychromatic decoration are housed in the British Museum in…
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…hand, the western one a kentauromachia (battle of centaurs). The temple is of Pentelic marble—except for the foundation and the lowest stylobate step, which are of Piraic stone, and the frieze of the cella, which is Parian marble. Fragments of the polychromatic decoration are housed in the British Museum in…
Read More

Centaur
…known for their fight (centauromachy) with the Lapiths, which resulted from their attempt to carry off the bride of Pirithous, son and successor of Ixion. They lost the battle and were driven from Mount Pelion. In later Greek times they were often represented drawing the chariot of the wine…
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…known for their fight (centauromachy) with the Lapiths, which resulted from their attempt to carry off the bride of Pirithous, son and successor of Ixion. They lost the battle and were driven from Mount Pelion. In later Greek times they were often represented drawing the chariot of the wine…
Read More