The tale of Eros and Psyche is regarded as one of the most enchanting love stories in Greek mythology. Eros, the son of Aphrodite, embodies profound erotic longing, shooting arrows to puncture hearts and incite love. Psyche, the epitome of beauty, symbolizes the human soul—purified from hardships and passions, prepared to embrace eternal joy. In…
The most elaborate rendition of the Osiris myth finds its roots in the works of the Greek historian Plutarch, who lived from 46 to around 120 CE. Although his recounting is more contemporary, it harmonizes with much of the earlier evidence available. Osiris is celebrated as Egypt’s inaugural king, born to Geb, the earth god,…
The Significance of Venus in Mythology Venus, recognized as the most luminous object in the night sky after the Sun and the Moon, has captivated human interest since prehistoric times. In places like Siberia, it stood alone among the planets with its distinct name, Cholbon. This planet was linked with both the Morning Star and…
Greece is situated at the southernmost part of the Balkan Peninsula, extending southward into the surrounding seas, including the Aegean, Ionian, Mediterranean, and Thracian seas, along with an extensive archipelago comprising nearly 1,500 islands. Noteworthy islands such as Crete and Evia are the largest, while major island groups encompass the Argo-Saronic, Cyclades, Dodecanese, Ionian Islands,…
Taweret is a fascinating deity in ancient Egyptian mythology, depicted as having the body of a hippopotamus, lion’s legs, and a crocodile’s face. This striking combination gives her an intriguing appearance that blurs the line between fearsome and maternal, embodying qualities that make her seem like the ultimate cosmic companion. Her round, approachable form might…
Shu: The Egyptian God of Wind and Air Shu, revered as the deity of air and the atmosphere, is a significant figure in ancient Egyptian mythology. Often recognized as the supporter of the sky, Shu emerges from the creation story involving Atum, the sun god, who expelled the elements of moisture and air, resulting in…
In Greek mythology, the primordial entity known as Chaos gives way to Gaia, the goddess embodying the Earth and the source of all life. Gaia’s essence resonates with figures across various cultures, such as the Roman Terra Mater, Andean Pachamama, Hindu Prithvi, and the Hopi’s Spider Grandmother, Kokyangwuti, who, along with the Sun god Tawa,…
In the realm of Irish mythology, Balor, traditionally spelled Balar, stands as a fierce tyrant of the Fomorians, a race of supernatural beings notorious in ancient tales. He is depicted as a colossal figure with a singular eye that, once opened, brings about devastation. The most notable story involving Balor centers on his demise at…
The tale of Orpheus and Eurydice stands as a quintessential tragic love story, firmly entrenched in Greek mythology. Revered by artists such as Peter Paul Rubens and Nicolas Poussin, this narrative has inspired countless operas, songs, and theatrical performances, all celebrating the love of these two iconic figures who were robbed of the joy of…
Villa Aurora: A Hidden Gem of Roman Art and History Nestled quietly in the heart of Rome, Villa Aurora is an extraordinary 16th-century estate brimming with artistic grandeur, earning it a title as one of the city’s best-hidden treasures. This remarkable site is a remnant of what once was the magnificent Ludovisi gardens, which were…