Greek Gods and Goddesses • Facts and Information

This website is an easy-to-follow overview of the many Greek gods and goddesses of Greek mythology. From the Olympian gods and goddesses right down to the many minor gods and goddesses found in Greek literature, you'll find quick and fun information on many gods and goddesses.

From Aphrodite to Zeus, if you need concise facts on a Greek god or goddess for a school project or if you're just interested in learning something new about the gods and goddesses in general, you've come to the right place.

Olympian Greek Gods

Apollo

Apollo was the son of Leto and Zeus. He was born on the island of Delos. He and his twin sister Artemis, also an Olympian, shared an aptitude for archery. The nine Muses were companions of his; they were goddesses known for inspiring art and music.

Ares

He was the son of Zeus and Hera, both of whom hated him (according to Homer). Eros (more commonly known as Cupid) was the child of Ares and Aphrodite. Ares was most notably referred to as the God of War; he represented the unpleasant aspects of battle.

Dionysus

Dionysus was primarily known as the God of the Vine. Upon reaching adulthood, Dionysus wandered the Earth, teaching men the culture of the vine. Dionysus was the last god to enter Olympus.

Hades

He was also called the God of Wealth or “the rich one” because he possessed the precious metals of the earth. Hades had a cap or helmet that made its wearer invisible. His wife was Persephone, Demeter’s only daughter, whom he kidnapped and made his queen.

Hephaestus

Hephaestus was the only ugly god among perfectly beautiful immortals. He was the workman of the immortals: he made their dwellings, furnishings, and weapons. Hephaestus was known as the God of Fire.

Hermes

Hermes was considered a “trickster” due to his cunning and clever personality. He primarily served as the herald or messenger of the gods. Hermes was born in a cave on a mountain in Arcadia; he was conceived and born within the course of one day.

Poseidon

Poseidon was allotted his dominion after the fall of the Titans. He wielded the trident or three-pronged spear, and this image of him is reflected in art. Poseidon was most notably the God of the sea and the protector of all waters.

Zeus

Zeus was the father of the famous Greek hero Hercules. The name Zeus means "bright" or "sky." His weapon of choice was the thunderbolt, made for him by the Cyclops.

Olympian Greek Goddesses

Aphrodite

Aphrodite was the goddess of fertility, love, and beauty. During the Trojan War, Aphrodite fought on the side of Paris. Aphrodite and her son Eros (Cupid) teamed up to cause Zeus to fall in love with a human named Europa.

Artemis

Artemis was daughter of Zeus and Leto and twin sister of Apollo. She was primarily a virgin huntress, goddess of wildlife and patroness of hunters. She was an important goddess in the lives of women, especially when it came to marriage and young creatures.