site last updated on 3 january 2001

Origin: Greece and Crete
aka: Minerva (Rome)

 Athena is the protector of Athens, and is patron of the arts, blacksmiths, potters, spinners and weavers. He is also known as a Virgin Goddess, and her companions included owls and snakes. The olive tree is sacred to her, and is the symbol of peace.

Athena is daughter of Zeus and Metis (goddess of prophecy) and was born when Zeus swallowed Metis (when pregnant with athena) and he had to open his own head with an ax to let out his fully grown daughter.