632
By Marie-Lan Nguyen - Own work, Public Domain, Link
Hera was the powerful queen of the Greek gods and the goddess of marriage, family, and women. Known for her strength, beauty, and fierce personality, she played an important role in many myths. Here are 20 fun facts that reveal fascinating details about Hera and her legendary stories.
READ MORE: 10 Fun Facts About Zeus, the Greek God
LET LEARN 20 FUN FACTS!
- Hera was the Queen of the Gods and ruled Mount Olympus alongside her husband, Zeus.
- She was the goddess of marriage, women, family, and childbirth, making her an important protector of wives.
- Hera was both the sister and wife of Zeus, which was common among Greek gods.
- She was the daughter of the Titans Cronus and Rhea.
- When Hera was born, Cronus swallowed her because he feared his children would overthrow him.
- Zeus later freed Hera and her siblings after forcing Cronus to release them.
- Hera was known for being very jealous, especially of Zeus’s many lovers and children.
- She often punished Zeus’s lovers, even when they were innocent.
- One of Hera’s most famous enemies was Heracles (Hercules), Zeus’s son with another woman.
- Hera even sent snakes to kill baby Heracles, but he strangled them instead.
- Hera’s sacred animals were the peacock, cow, and lion.
- The peacock became sacred to Hera after she placed the hundred eyes of the giant Argus onto its feathers.
- Hera had several children including Ares, Hebe, Eileithyia, and Hephaestus.
- Some myths say Hera threw baby Hephaestus from Mount Olympus because he was born deformed.
- Hera was one of the three goddesses in the Judgment of Paris, competing for the golden apple.
- She offered Paris power and rulership over Europe and Asia if he chose her as the most beautiful.
- When Paris chose Aphrodite instead, Hera supported the Greeks in the Trojan War.
- Hera had many temples across ancient Greece, especially in Argos and Samos.
- The Heraion of Samos was one of the largest temples dedicated to her.
- Despite her jealousy, Hera was still highly respected as a powerful protector of marriage and queenship.
Picture
Like this Post? Save it on Pinterest!
