Hera

Hera is one of the most important gods in Greek mythology. She was known as the queen of the gods and the wife of Zeus. Hera lived on Mount Olympus, the home of the Olympian gods. Ancient Greeks believed she watched over marriage and family life. She was often shown wearing a crown or veil, which showed her role as a queen.

Hera was the daughter of the Titans Cronus and Rhea. This made her one of the older Olympian gods. Her brothers and sisters included Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, Demeter, and Hestia. After Zeus defeated the Titans, Hera became his wife and shared his rule over the gods. Even though Zeus ruled the sky, Hera held great power as his queen.

Hera was mainly known as the goddess of marriage. Marriage is the union of two people as partners. Ancient Greeks prayed to Hera during weddings and family events. She was believed to protect married women and support lawful families. Temples and statues of Hera were built in many Greek cities, especially in Argos and Samos.

Many myths describe Hera as a strict and proud goddess. She often became angry when Zeus was unfaithful. These stories were used to explain her actions toward Zeus’s children from other relationships. Some of these children were gods or heroes, such as Heracles. Hera’s actions in myths often involved punishment or challenges for these figures.

Hera was also linked to symbols and animals. The peacock was her most famous symbol. The many eyes on a peacock’s feathers were said to represent watchfulness. She was also connected with cows, which symbolized care and protection. In art, Hera often appeared calm and serious, showing her role as a powerful ruler.

Hera later became part of Roman mythology, where she was called Juno. Stories about Hera were written by ancient poets such as Homer. These stories helped explain how the ancient Greeks viewed family, authority, and the role of queens. Hera remained one of the central figures in Greek religious belief.