Discovered 1897 Dec. 18 by A. Charlois at Nice.

Named after the famous priestess of Apollo {see planet (1862)} at Delphi (which is another name for Pythia). She was fifty years old before she assumed the office. She delivered the answers of Apollo to those who came to consult the famous oracle. The oracle could be consulted only one month in the year, and rich presents were required for Apollo, hence the opulence, splendor, and magnificence of the celebrated temple at Delphi. (Z 226)

See also the remarks to planet (356).