GREEK MYTHOLOGY : Gods and Goddesses

It is known that ancient Greeks had their own beliefs that helped them discover and understand the world and the beings surrounding them. They believed in Greek gods and goddesses, they were meant for different things.

Ancient Greek religion based it’s belief on Twelve gods and goddesses moreover they ruled the universe from Mount Olympus, in Greece.

Now who are these Greek gods and goddesses you ask?

First, let’s start with the father of them all, Zeus, the god of skies, the king of Olympus and the most powerful of them all. Although he was worshipped in most ancient Greek homes, had the power to change his shape and was married to the Queen of gods, Hera, However, he had quite the reputation.

Poseidon, god of the sea and brother of Zeus. One of the most powerful gods. He controlled the seas and sailors would pray for him to ensure safe passage.

Ares, god of war. Son of Zeus and Hera. He was a cruel god, so consequently he was disliked by his own parents. He wasn’t respected and worshipped as other Greek gods.

Aphrodite, The Greek goddess of Love and Beauty. One of my favourites. She was largely worshipped in many cities in ancient Greece and was a beautiful symbol to many like roses, doves and swans.

Hera, The goddess of women, marriage and the queen of gods.

She was known to be a vengeful goddess and would take jealousy on other gods and goddesses. However, she was also the protector of many families, marriages, women and births.

Demeter, Goddess of Harvest and Agriculture

Very underrated btw, she controlled the seasons and growth of crops, As a result the Greeks would worship and pray for her so their crops would grow big and healthy. She taught mortals how to grow corn and other different vegetables and fruits.

Athena, the goddess of War and Wisdom

Also known to be the daughter of Zeus (the favourite one). She was the goddess of battle strategy and wisdom. Born out of Zeus Head while he was wearing a suit of armour (i know weird). She was the patron Goddess of many cities in Greece.

Apollo, God of the Sun, Music, Poetry, Art and more

He was a Greek god of many things. He played music for the other Greek gods and Goddesses on his Golden Lyre. He was also referred to as “The Healer” as a result of teaching humans the art of medicine and having to heal people from illnesses and diseases.

Artemis, Goddess of the Hunt and the Wild

She would hunt using her bow and arrows. Amongst the rural Population, She was actually the favourite goddess. She was also known to be the Goddess of Animals, she would punish anyone who hurt any animals sacred to her.

Hephaestus. God of fire, metal working and sculpture

He was associated with craftsmen and Blacksmiths and was married to Aphrodite. Unlike the other gods, he was known to be “the lame one” since he was physically flawed.

Hermes, The Messenger God

The youngest son of Zeus, He became the Messenger god as a result of his speed and trustworthiness, known to be seen with winged shoes, he could fly and travel, in addition to this he was also the protector of travellers and Merchants.

Dionysus, God of Wine, Theatre and Fertility

Dionysus was a very popular Greek God. As he grew, he learned how to cultivate grapes, becoming the first to make wine. He taught people how to make wine and then ascended to Mount Olympus, being the last God to arrive, furthermore becoming one of the 12 Greek gods and Goddesses.

Whilst these gods and goddesses were the major ones to be worshipped, there were of course with certainty other Ancient Greek Gods that were also known and respected.