According to mythology, the island of Paxos was created when the god Poseidon struck the island of Corfu with his trident. This powerful blow severed the southern tip of Corfu, forming Paxos. Poseidon intended this new island to be a secluded retreat for his romantic liaison with Amphitrite. However, in the process, Poseidon lost his trident. The inhabitants of Paxos, known as the Paxinos, discovered the trident and adopted it as their emblem.