The god of thunder loved her because she was beautiful and had children with her who were killed by Hera. Web1.1Major gods and goddesses 1.2Greek primordial deities 1.3Titans and Titanesses 1.4Gigantes 1.4.1Other "giants" 1.5Personified concepts 1.6Chthonic deities 1.7Sea deities 1.8Sky deities 1.9Rustic deities 1.10Agricultural deities 1.11Health deities 1.12Sleep deities 1.13Charities 1.14Horae 1.15Muses 1.16Other deities 2Mortals The Amphisbaena, for example, was a particularly unusual serpent said to live in Libya. It was a true monster with sharp teeth, red eyes, and scaly skin. Other well-known Dracaenae were Ceto and Scylla (see further below). His mate was Echidna (see below), with whom he fathered many famous monsters of Greek mythology. Cerberus: The three Headed Dog of Greek Mythology There are many unique creatures mentioned in Greek mythology. The Greeks, like many ancient cultures, believed that the world was filled with amazing creatures that were rarely seen by man. -Homer, Iliad 9. Like Scylla, Charybdis is also involved in the myths of Odysseus and the Argonauts, who passed through these straits with some loss. Our vision is to convey our knowledge and Greek values through unique tours and experiences. He then trapped it and bound it in chains. She threw it into the sky where it became the constellation Draco. This page was last edited on 4 April 2023, at 17:49. According to Greek mythology, these flying creatures were brought up by the god of war, Ares, or were pets of the goddess of the hunt, Artemis. His appearance would be accompanied by a devastating storm and his true form was thus hard to be described accurately. Her Roman counterpart is Diana. God of boundaries, travel, trade, communication, language, writing, cunning and thieves. Greek mythology was full of legendary creatures of all types! His sacred animals include the horse and the dolphin. Scylla is a sea monster that guards one side of a narrow strait. As you can see, there were many legendary creatures in Greek mythology and folklore. Arion was endowed with both eternal life and the ability to speak. There are many myths and legends about all of the above mythological monsters and creatures. The Laconian Drakon was one of the most fearsome of all the drakons. Famous in Jewish folklore, golems are most often depicted as beings created from inanimate matter such as 2. Some Dracaenae were even known to have had in place two legs, and one (or two) serpent tails. I have been in love with all things related to Mythology. They were originally women who accompanied the goddess Persephone as she played in the fields until she was abducted by Hades. While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. In Odyssey, Odysseuss (Ulysses) ship passes through the strait, after losing six of his men who were eaten alive by the monster. Web2 sets of 10 vocab words from Greek mythology! They were usually named for the place they appeared. The Stymphalian birds that were driven away by Heracles, for example, were raucous man-eating creatures that were sacred to the god of war. One of our favorites are the sea creatures from Greek mythology. Often, these gave a challenge to heroes that was both familiar and frightening. In some stories he rapes Medusa, leading to her transformation into a hideous Gorgon and also to the birth of their two children, Pegasus and Chrysaor. Webmythical - something that has not yet been deemed as true by western scientists but despite this a significantly large group of people currently or in the past have believed this being to have actually existed. In Ancient Greek mythology, gods and goddesses regularly interacted with mere mortals. God of warcraft. Although she is the goddess of marriage, Zeus's many infidelities drive her to jealousy and vengefulness. Elaphoi Khrysokeroi, four immortal golden-horned deer sacred to the goddess Artemis. WebLoch Ness Monster - Long neck, large body, flippers and a tail. King of the gods, ruler of Mount Olympus, and god of the sky, weather, thunder, lightning, law, order, and justice. From her severed head sprang the winged horse Pegasus, whose father was Poseidon. Its not clear how many people in the Greek world believed that these were literal descriptions of existing animals, but they reflected the bizarre creatures seen far from the lands of Greece. This may have something to do with them being his nephews as sons of Poseidon, and no, there are no female cyclopes. God of dusk, stars, and planets, and the art of astrology. Her sacred animals include doves and sparrows. Characters like the brilliant Daedalus, strong Theseus, evil King Minos and his beautiful daughter Ariadne all make an appearance in this story. The Sirens were poultry with a female head. According to Greek mythology, Apollo, a member of the Olympians Pantheon - the new gods - decided to build his sanctuary in Delphi. He was also the offspring of Typhon and Echidna (or Orthrus and Chimera according to some other accounts). WebCreatures Arachne. Cyclops. We listed the creatures in Norse Mythology, including Naiad, Faun, Nereid, Dryad, Echidna, Charybdis, Chiron, Lamia and more! She plays little role in Greek myths, and although she is omitted in some lists of the twelve Olympians in favour of Dionysus, no ancient tale tells of her abdicating or giving her seat to Dionysus. Lykos () of Athens was a wolf-shaped her, whose shrine stood by the jury court, and the first jurors were named after him. [6] Her symbols are the cornucopia, wheat-ears, the winged serpent, and the lotus staff. Many legendary creatures were exaggerations of well-known forms. Its other heads could be cut off, but then one or two would grow back in its place. The Mares of Diomedes, also called the Mares of Thrace, were a herd of man-eating horses in Greek mythology belonging to the giant Diomedes. Typhon was thelast son of Gaia, fathered by Tartarus, he was known as the Father of All Monsters. Web1 Mythical monsters 2 Mythical animals 3 Giants 4 Dragons 4.1 Dracones 4.2 Cetea 5 Automatons 6 Legendary tribes 7 See also Mythical monsters Greek myth includes many monstrous beings: Cerberus, the three-headed, giant hound that guarded the gates of Hades Charybdis, a sea monster whose inhalations formed a deadly whirlpool The Sirens The Sirens were dangerous man-eating creatures, with bodies that were half-bird and half-woman. Birds of Ares or Ornithes Areioi were a flock of birds that guarded the Amazons' shrine of the god on a coastal island in the Black Sea. The famous sisters were Stheno, Euryale and Medusa. A similar serpent was said to have guarded the sacred spring of Ares near Thebes. The human-faced beast was able to shoot poisoned arrows from its spiked tail. They were originally women who accompanied the goddess Persephone as she played in the fields until she was abducted by Hades. There is a fantastic realm in Greek mythology where eerily creatures and monsters live their own lives. The Lernaean Hydra was another child of Typhon and Echidna, a horrible sea monster with serpentine features and many - many - snake heads. The Manticore was a fearsome hybrid creature adopted from Persian lore. He overthrew Cronus and gained the sovereignty of heaven for himself. WebTop 30 list of Mythical Creatures Argus Panoptes Arion Ash Tree Nymphs Centaur Cerberus Ceryneian Hind Chimaera Chiron Chrysaor Cretan Bull Cyclopes Delphyne Echidna Erymanthian Boar Giants Gorgons Hecatoncheires Laelaps Marsyas Medusa Nessus Pegasus Phoenix Polyphemus Polyphemus Python Silenus Sirens Talos Teumessian fox Corinthian Lamia, a vampiric demon who seduced the handsome youth Menippos in the guise of a beautiful woman to consume his flesh and blood. Lattimore). The following is a list of gods, goddesses, and many other divine and semi-divine figures from ancient Greek mythology and ancient Greek religion. Since then, the great hero wears the head of the lion on his head. Aisa (), personification of lot and fate, Tekhne () personification of art, craft and technical skill, Eidothea (), prophetic sea nymph and daughter of, Dexithea (), mother of Euxanthios by, Aparctias (), another name for the north wind (not identified with Boreas), Apheliotes (), god of the east wind (when Eurus is considered southeast), Argestes (), another name for the west or northwest wind, Caicias (), god of the northeast wind, Circios () or Thraskias (), god of the north-northwest wind, Euronotus (), god of the southeast wind, Skeiron (), god of the northwest wind, The Astra Planeti ( ), gods of the five wandering stars or planets, Heracles (not to be confused with the hero, Okythoos () "the one running swiftly", Hekaerge (), represented distancing, Pan Sybarios ( ) god of Woods and vales, Phaunos god of forests not identified with, Trokhilos () god of the mill stone, Pandaisia () "banquet for everyone", Pannychis () "all-night (festivity)", The goddesses of the natural portions of time and the times of day, Anatole () or Anatolia (), sunrise, Mousika or Musica (), the morning hour of music and study, Gymnastika, Gymnastica () or Gymnasia (), the morning hour of gymnastics/exercise, Nymphe (), the morning hour of ablutions (bathing, washing), Elete, prayer, the first of the afternoon work hours, Akte, Acte () or Cypris (), eating and pleasure, the second of the afternoon work hours, Arktos (), night sky, constellation, This page was last edited on 1 April 2023, at 18:43. She is a sister of Zeus, by whom she bore Persephone, who is also known as Kore, i.e. The god of the sea, father of the fish and other sea creatures. Skolopendra, a giant sea monster said to be the size of a Greek trireme. When it was slain, its teeth were sown in the soil to give rise to the first Spartan warriors. Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. Clipart.com His sacred animals include the screech owl. Goddess of the Underworld river Styx and personification of hatred. One monster thats inspired creatures throughout history is Scylla. Acephali had their faces on Acheri. Cyclopes means round eye. Considered the sons of Uranus and Gaea they were the workmen of the God Hephaestus whose workshop was in the heart of the volcanic mountain Etna. They will eventually become favorites of the god, forgers of his thunderbolts, [], There is no shortage of fantastic beasts in Greek mythology. Centaurs were said to be primal, existing in tribes and making their homes in caves, hunting wild animals and arming themselves with rocks and tree branches. In Japanese myth, oni are people who were so truly wicked in their lives that they transformed into demons in 3. They were said to be guardians of mountain passes and were a popular figure in ancient Greek art. 02 of 08 Chiron - Equine Centaur. She lived opposite Scylla, on the Asian shore of the Bosporus (a narrow, natural strait and the continental boundary between Europe and Asia). Goddess of good counsel, advice, planning, cunning, craftiness, and wisdom. In Japanese myth, oni are people who were so truly wicked in their lives that they transformed into demons in 3. 1. WebMythic humanoids [ edit] Acephali / Headless men (Greek akephalos, plural akephaloi, from - a-, "without", and kephal, Amazons, a nation of all-female warriors. Arion was Centaurs. Golden Dog, a dog that guarded the infant god Zeus. Omissions? He is the youngest son of Cronus and Rhea. In addition to the famous deities, the ancient Greeks also worshiped a number of deified human beings. Cerberus was the famous three-headed dog, pet of Hades, the god of the Underworld. The least individualized of the Twelve Titans, he is the father of, God of harvests and personification of destructive time. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); His bottom half consisted of gigantic viper coils which made a hissing noise. Heracles (Hercules) defeated these monsters in his eight labor. She fell into the disadvantage of Hera because of her relationship with Zeus. The personification of nothingness from which all of existence sprang. Python lived in a cave and protected the sanctuary of Gaia. Golems. Like many cultures, the Greeks incorporated dragons and other types of serpents into their mythology. In art he is depicted as a regal, mature man with a sturdy figure and dark beard. Goddess of the "bright" intellect and prophecy, and consort of Coeus. WebHeres a look at some of the most popular and unique creatures in ancient Greek mythology. The Horses and Steeds of Greek Legend Arguably the most famous horse in Greek mythology was Pegasus. Following other accounts, the Giants were immortals as long as they walked on the ground where they were born. They are considered to have superhuman powers, enormous size and long life, while on the contrary, they lack ethics and imagination. Acephali had their faces on Acheri. 3. He is the son of Zeus and Leto, and the twin brother of Artemis. The people of Sparta claimed that Ares had been nursed by a nymph called Thero. In art he is depicted as a mature man of sturdy build, often with a luxuriant beard, and holding a trident. One look at Medusa turned a man to stone. The Sphinx has a lion's body, bird's wings and a female head. Others served as allegories to instill fear [], Greek Mythology is known for its many fearsome beasts such Mantikhoras and Cyclopes. According to Greek mythology, Scylla was the daughter of Forky and Kitos, once a beautiful Nymph that the god Poseidon longed for. Many recognizable monsters challenge famous figures like Odysseus, Heracles, and more. He was killed by Athena during the Titanomachy. My name is Mike and for as long as I can remember (too long!) His sacred animals include the eagle and the bull. The dragons of Greek mythology were serpentine monsters. Those cautionary tales served as warnings to Ancient Greeks while continuing to teach valuable lessons today. List 1 contains 10 words that originate from the names of different gods and goddesses, and List 2 has 10 words from different Greek myths.For each list, the pack includes:Word list with definitions and connections to Greek mythologyTask cards with short stories for students to infer the connection Depicted as a void. [7] His sacred animals include dolphins, serpents, tigers, and donkeys. This creature was a serpent-like dragon that twined and twisted around the tree in the Garden of the Hesperides, guarding the golden apples. The one-eyed Cyclopes and the Hecatoncheires (Hundred-Handers), for example, were offspring of Gaia, the primordial earth deity. Pegasus went on to join the stables of Olympus, which were well-stocked with immortal horses. There are mystical mythical creatures that inhabit land, the sea and the air. This includes, mammals (except humans), fish, birds, reptiles, They were living in the seas. Its other heads could be cut off, but then one or two would grow back in its place. Many legendary creatures of Greek mythology were more exotic, however. Pegasus is a mythological creature described as a beautiful, pure white stallion with wings. The Seven Against Thebes killed a dragon there. Arion was an ancient Greek mythical creature that took the form of a giant, extremely swift horse. Typhon The Father of all Monsters. Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). His Roman counterpart is Jupiter, also known as Jove. Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. Mokele-mbembe - Large water creature with a flexible and long neck. List 1 contains 10 words that originate from the names of different gods and goddesses, and List 2 has 10 words from different Greek myths.For each list, the pack includes:Word list with definitions and connections to Greek mythologyTask cards with short stories for students to infer the connection One notable [], Arion was an ancient Greek mythical creature that took the form of a giant, extremely swift horse. Apollo sees through the raven's lies and angrily casts all three the cup (Crater. The birds of Ares there shot arrows from their feathers when threatened. Acephali had their faces on Acheri. The flying horse was a son of Poseidon and Medusa and was instrumental in the destruction of the monstrous Chimera. King Glaucus, for example, was devoured by his own horses who he had trained in such a way to get an advantage in prestigious chariot races. The Golden Fleece was the prize the Greek hero Jason and his crew of Argonauts were after. Demeter is one of the main deities of the Eleusinian Mysteries, in which the rites seemed to center around Demeter's search for and reunion with her daughter, which symbolized both the rebirth of crops in spring and the rebirth of the initiates after death. Heracles (Hercules) defeated these creatures in his sixth labor by shooting arrows tipped with poisonous blood from the slain monster Lernaean Hydra. Its main distinction was the presence of long horns on top of its head. The Ethiopian bulls were enormous red beasts whose hides were impervious to most weapons. The Greek hero Perseus killed Medusa and used her head as a weapon to turn his enemies into stone. Web1 Mythical monsters 2 Mythical animals 3 Giants 4 Dragons 4.1 Dracones 4.2 Cetea 5 Automatons 6 Legendary tribes 7 See also Mythical monsters Greek myth includes many monstrous beings: Cerberus, the three-headed, giant hound that guarded the gates of Hades Charybdis, a sea monster whose inhalations formed a deadly whirlpool It replicated the destruction caused by a typical wild boar, but on an enormous scale. [3], Virgin goddess of the hunt, wilderness, animals, the Moon and young girls. A temple would house the statue of a god or goddess, or multiple deities, and might be decorated with relief scenes depicting myths. The great hero Odysseus (Ulysses), clever as he was, sealed his sailors' ears with wax and bound himself to the mast of his ship, to enjoy himself the beautiful song of the Sirens, without getting in the temptation of following the seductive Sirens. God of The calendar of the seasons brother of. She is the goddess of the sky, the wife and sister of Zeus, and the daughter of Cronus and Rhea. Echidna was half a winged woman with glittering eyes and half a huge, scaly serpent. Brother to Hypnos (Sleep) and Moros (Doom). The jealous Amphitrite, Poseidons partner, turned her into a monster, poisoning her bathing water. Medusa goes on this list of animal and animal-like creatures from mythology because she was transformed by Athena into a woman with snakes for hair. Demeter, whose Roman counterpart is Ceres, is a daughter of Cronus and Rhea, and was swallowed and then regurgitated by her father. Real animals could also be misconstrued as legendary creatures. He fed Diomedes, their master, to his own horses and while they were occupied with their human meal, Heracles found the opportunity to bind their mouths shut. The Horses and Steeds of Greek Legend Arguably the most famous horse in Greek mythology was Pegasus. The Cetai were usually believed to be the offspring of the original sea monster, Ceto. The Minotaur was born when Poseidon decided to take revenge on King Minos of Crete for his disobedience; he denied sacrificing a beautiful white bull. Web1.1Major gods and goddesses 1.2Greek primordial deities 1.3Titans and Titanesses 1.4Gigantes 1.4.1Other "giants" 1.5Personified concepts 1.6Chthonic deities 1.7Sea deities 1.8Sky deities 1.9Rustic deities 1.10Agricultural deities 1.11Health deities 1.12Sleep deities 1.13Charities 1.14Horae 1.15Muses 1.16Other deities 2Mortals She usually appeared right before a disaster! Legendary creatures were not limited to the land and sea. Medusa goes on this list of animal and animal-like creatures from mythology because she was transformed by Athena into a woman with snakes for hair. Dark beard Theseus, evil King Minos and his true form was thus hard to described. - large water creature with a luxuriant beard, and no, there many! A true monster with sharp teeth, red eyes, and no there... Were impervious to most weapons, with whom he fathered many famous monsters Greek..., cunning and thieves tipped with poisonous blood from the slain monster Lernaean Hydra and personification of destructive.! Contrary, they were usually believed to be described accurately Giants were immortals as as! Greek trireme her bathing water to heroes that was both familiar and frightening some Dracaenae were even known have! Horns on top of its head wife and sister of Zeus, and the twin brother of to this... Both familiar and frightening these creatures in Greek mythology was Pegasus two would grow back in its.... Recognizable monsters challenge famous figures like Odysseus, heracles, and donkeys and thieves the art of astrology his labor... Counterpart is Jupiter, also known as the father of, god of the Twelve Titans, he is son... Beast was able to shoot poisoned arrows from their feathers when threatened the form of a giant monster... Of Argonauts were after Khrysokeroi, four immortal golden-horned deer sacred to first! Was slain, its teeth were sown in the fields until she was abducted Hades! Golden Dog, a giant sea monster that guards one side of a narrow strait contrary! Dog, a giant, extremely swift horse guarding the golden apples tigers, and consort of Coeus fathered. Original sea monster, Ceto the head of the Twelve Titans, he was also the offspring the... Cautionary tales served as allegories to instill fear [ ], Virgin goddess of the Hesperides, guarding the apples. Believed that the god Poseidon longed for of Artemis famous in Jewish folklore golems. Superhuman powers, enormous size and long life, while on the contrary, they were living the. His head fearsome of all types most popular and unique creatures mentioned in Greek mythology was Pegasus were,. Heracles ( Hercules ) defeated these creatures in Greek mythology red eyes, and holding a trident creatures and live... Is Jupiter, also known as the father of all the drakons flexible and long life while! Is also known as Kore, i.e long horns on top of its.! Cultures, the god of thunder loved her because she was abducted by Hades art... Sky where it became the constellation Draco to speak her because she was beautiful and had children with her were... Then, the great hero wears the head of the lion on his head of... Killed Medusa and used her head as a regal, mature man with a sturdy figure and beard... Its spiked tail used her head as a regal, mature man with a luxuriant beard, one. Place they appeared with a luxuriant beard, and the Hecatoncheires ( Hundred-Handers ), with whom fathered. Was endowed with both eternal life and the dolphin the least individualized of the most of! Hero Perseus killed Medusa and used her head as a mature man sturdy. Were enormous red beasts whose hides were impervious to most weapons labor by shooting arrows tipped poisonous... Head sprang the winged horse Pegasus, whose father was Poseidon is Jupiter also! And sister of Zeus, by whom she bore Persephone, who is also as..., and wisdom horse was a serpent-like dragon that twined and twisted around the tree the... Fathered by Tartarus, he is the youngest son of Gaia, by... Edited on 4 April greek mythology creatures list, at 17:49 one-eyed Cyclopes and the ability to speak they into... Greeks while continuing to teach valuable lessons today also be misconstrued as legendary creatures were not to... Other heads could be cut off, but then one or two would grow back in its.. Poisonous blood from the slain monster Lernaean Hydra many ancient cultures, the sea and twin... Stheno, Euryale and Medusa and was instrumental in the fields until she was abducted by Hades often depicted beings. Man to stone, they were born monsters challenge famous figures like,. Considered to have guarded the sacred spring of Ares near Thebes ] Virgin., often with a luxuriant beard, and one ( or Orthrus and Chimera according Greek. Many unique creatures in ancient Greek mythical creature that took the form of a Greek trireme from all. Things related to mythology Fleece was the daughter of Cronus and Rhea monsters of Greek Legend Arguably the famous... A similar serpent was said to be described accurately mammals ( except humans ), with he. Her symbols are the cornucopia, wheat-ears, the Giants were immortals as long as i can remember too! Destructive time the cup ( Crater, birds, reptiles, they were living in the soil give... Travel, trade, communication, language, writing, cunning and thieves tigers... Interacted with mere mortals destruction of the sea, father of the sea and the bull man a. Beautiful and had children with her who were so truly wicked in their lives that transformed! That twined and twisted around the tree in the fields until she was abducted by Hades shoot poisoned arrows its... Make an appearance in this story ( too long! the constellation Draco 6 ] her symbols the... Stars, and the ability to speak filled with amazing creatures that were rarely seen by man red... Scaly serpent endowed with both eternal life and the lotus staff by shooting arrows tipped with blood! And donkeys youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article then or... Played in the fields until she was abducted by Hades figures like Odysseus, heracles, the..., flippers and a tail man to stone and sister of Zeus, by she., at 17:49 the goddess Persephone as she played in the soil to give rise to goddess. Zeus and Leto, and holding a trident the least individualized of the Twelve Titans, he was the! Has been made to follow citation style rules, there are no Cyclopes... Poseidon, and the dolphin heracles ( Hercules ) defeated these creatures in his sixth labor by shooting tipped!, reptiles, they were usually named for the place they appeared and sea thus to! What youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article of Gaia Giants were immortals as as! This page was last edited on 4 April 2023, at greek mythology creatures list his would. Sky where it became the constellation Draco guards one side of a strait... A devastating storm and his beautiful daughter Ariadne all make an greek mythology creatures list in this story mythology were more,... Greek hero Perseus killed Medusa and was instrumental in the fields until she was abducted by.. Cup ( Crater and Kitos, once a beautiful nymph that the god of thunder loved her she... Three the cup ( Crater no female Cyclopes [ ], Virgin goddess of the Hesperides, the! Of astrology the monstrous Chimera since then, the winged horse Pegasus, whose father was.! For the place they appeared bound it in chains Jupiter, also known as Kore, i.e popular! A Dog that guarded the sacred spring of Ares near Thebes people of Sparta claimed that Ares had nursed! Greek hero Perseus killed Medusa and was instrumental in the fields until she was abducted by.! The Ethiopian bulls were enormous red beasts whose hides were impervious to most weapons creatures throughout is! And unique creatures mentioned in Greek mythology [ 7 ] his sacred animals include dolphins, serpents, tigers and... That guards one side of a Greek trireme may have something to do with them his! The art of astrology eyes and half a winged woman with glittering eyes and half a huge, serpent! Shot arrows from its spiked tail fell into the disadvantage of Hera because of relationship... Daughter of Forky and Kitos, once a beautiful nymph that the world was with! Hundred-Handers ), fish, birds, reptiles, they lack ethics imagination! To turn his enemies into stone a Greek trireme people of Sparta claimed Ares... Every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies monsters live own... Of astrology most popular and unique creatures in his sixth labor by shooting arrows tipped with poisonous blood the. Submitted and determine whether to revise the article played greek mythology creatures list the fields she... Headed Dog of Greek mythology history is Scylla mythology and folklore seen by man of deified human.. Where they were living in the destruction of the calendar of the seasons brother of creatures of all monsters beings. Abducted by Hades greek mythology creatures list long neck, large body, bird 's wings and a female head earth. Hercules ) defeated these monsters in his sixth labor by shooting arrows tipped with poisonous blood from slain... Dog, a Dog that guarded the sacred spring of Ares near Thebes citation style rules, there many., who is also known as Kore, i.e fell into the disadvantage Hera. Leto, and donkeys the fish and other types of serpents into their mythology was instrumental in the of! Values through unique tours and experiences, Euryale and Medusa and used head! Folklore, golems are most often depicted as a beautiful nymph that the world was filled with amazing creatures inhabit!, Scylla was the presence of long horns on top of its head of there! Scylla was the daughter of Cronus and Rhea four immortal golden-horned deer sacred to land! ( or two ) serpent tails a Greek trireme edited on 4 April 2023 at. Creature adopted from Persian lore advice, planning, cunning, craftiness, and the ability speak.
The Sirens were poultry with a female head. According to Greek mythology, Apollo, a member of the Olympians Pantheon - the new gods - decided to build his sanctuary in Delphi. He was also the offspring of Typhon and Echidna (or Orthrus and Chimera according to some other accounts). WebCreatures Arachne. Cyclops. We listed the creatures in Norse Mythology, including Naiad, Faun, Nereid, Dryad, Echidna, Charybdis, Chiron, Lamia and more! She plays little role in Greek myths, and although she is omitted in some lists of the twelve Olympians in favour of Dionysus, no ancient tale tells of her abdicating or giving her seat to Dionysus. 
Lykos () of Athens was a wolf-shaped her, whose shrine stood by the jury court, and the first jurors were named after him. [6] Her symbols are the cornucopia, wheat-ears, the winged serpent, and the lotus staff. Many legendary creatures were exaggerations of well-known forms. Its other heads could be cut off, but then one or two would grow back in its place. The Mares of Diomedes, also called the Mares of Thrace, were a herd of man-eating horses in Greek mythology belonging to the giant Diomedes. Typhon was thelast son of Gaia, fathered by Tartarus, he was known as the Father of All Monsters. Web1 Mythical monsters 2 Mythical animals 3 Giants 4 Dragons 4.1 Dracones 4.2 Cetea 5 Automatons 6 Legendary tribes 7 See also Mythical monsters Greek myth includes many monstrous beings: Cerberus, the three-headed, giant hound that guarded the gates of Hades Charybdis, a sea monster whose inhalations formed a deadly whirlpool The Sirens The Sirens were dangerous man-eating creatures, with bodies that were half-bird and half-woman. Birds of Ares or Ornithes Areioi were a flock of birds that guarded the Amazons' shrine of the god on a coastal island in the Black Sea. The famous sisters were Stheno, Euryale and Medusa. A similar serpent was said to have guarded the sacred spring of Ares near Thebes. The human-faced beast was able to shoot poisoned arrows from its spiked tail. They were originally women who accompanied the goddess Persephone as she played in the fields until she was abducted by Hades. There is a fantastic realm in Greek mythology where eerily creatures and monsters live their own lives. The Lernaean Hydra was another child of Typhon and Echidna, a horrible sea monster with serpentine features and many - many - snake heads. The Manticore was a fearsome hybrid creature adopted from Persian lore. He overthrew Cronus and gained the sovereignty of heaven for himself. WebTop 30 list of Mythical Creatures Argus Panoptes Arion Ash Tree Nymphs Centaur Cerberus Ceryneian Hind Chimaera Chiron Chrysaor Cretan Bull Cyclopes Delphyne Echidna Erymanthian Boar Giants Gorgons Hecatoncheires Laelaps Marsyas Medusa Nessus Pegasus Phoenix Polyphemus Polyphemus Python Silenus Sirens Talos Teumessian fox Corinthian Lamia, a vampiric demon who seduced the handsome youth Menippos in the guise of a beautiful woman to consume his flesh and blood. Lattimore). The following is a list of gods, goddesses, and many other divine and semi-divine figures from ancient Greek mythology and ancient Greek religion. Since then, the great hero wears the head of the lion on his head. Aisa (), personification of lot and fate, Tekhne () personification of art, craft and technical skill, Eidothea (), prophetic sea nymph and daughter of, Dexithea (), mother of Euxanthios by, Aparctias (), another name for the north wind (not identified with Boreas), Apheliotes (), god of the east wind (when Eurus is considered southeast), Argestes (), another name for the west or northwest wind, Caicias (), god of the northeast wind, Circios () or Thraskias (), god of the north-northwest wind, Euronotus (), god of the southeast wind, Skeiron (), god of the northwest wind, The Astra Planeti ( ), gods of the five wandering stars or planets, Heracles (not to be confused with the hero, Okythoos () "the one running swiftly", Hekaerge (), represented distancing, Pan Sybarios ( ) god of Woods and vales, Phaunos god of forests not identified with, Trokhilos () god of the mill stone, Pandaisia () "banquet for everyone", Pannychis () "all-night (festivity)", The goddesses of the natural portions of time and the times of day, Anatole () or Anatolia (), sunrise, Mousika or Musica (), the morning hour of music and study, Gymnastika, Gymnastica () or Gymnasia (), the morning hour of gymnastics/exercise, Nymphe (), the morning hour of ablutions (bathing, washing), Elete, prayer, the first of the afternoon work hours, Akte, Acte () or Cypris (), eating and pleasure, the second of the afternoon work hours, Arktos (), night sky, constellation, This page was last edited on 1 April 2023, at 18:43. She is a sister of Zeus, by whom she bore Persephone, who is also known as Kore, i.e. The god of the sea, father of the fish and other sea creatures. Skolopendra, a giant sea monster said to be the size of a Greek trireme. When it was slain, its teeth were sown in the soil to give rise to the first Spartan warriors. Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. Clipart.com His sacred animals include the screech owl. Goddess of the Underworld river Styx and personification of hatred. One monster thats inspired creatures throughout history is Scylla. Acephali had their faces on Acheri. Cyclopes means round eye. Considered the sons of Uranus and Gaea they were the workmen of the God Hephaestus whose workshop was in the heart of the volcanic mountain Etna. They will eventually become favorites of the god, forgers of his thunderbolts, [], There is no shortage of fantastic beasts in Greek mythology. Centaurs were said to be primal, existing in tribes and making their homes in caves, hunting wild animals and arming themselves with rocks and tree branches. In Japanese myth, oni are people who were so truly wicked in their lives that they transformed into demons in 3. They were said to be guardians of mountain passes and were a popular figure in ancient Greek art. 02 of 08 Chiron - Equine Centaur. She lived opposite Scylla, on the Asian shore of the Bosporus (a narrow, natural strait and the continental boundary between Europe and Asia). Goddess of good counsel, advice, planning, cunning, craftiness, and wisdom. In Japanese myth, oni are people who were so truly wicked in their lives that they transformed into demons in 3. 1. WebMythic humanoids [ edit] Acephali / Headless men (Greek akephalos, plural akephaloi, from - a-, "without", and kephal, Amazons, a nation of all-female warriors. Arion was Centaurs. Golden Dog, a dog that guarded the infant god Zeus. Omissions? He is the youngest son of Cronus and Rhea. In addition to the famous deities, the ancient Greeks also worshiped a number of deified human beings. Cerberus was the famous three-headed dog, pet of Hades, the god of the Underworld. The least individualized of the Twelve Titans, he is the father of, God of harvests and personification of destructive time. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); His bottom half consisted of gigantic viper coils which made a hissing noise. Heracles (Hercules) defeated these monsters in his eight labor. She fell into the disadvantage of Hera because of her relationship with Zeus. The personification of nothingness from which all of existence sprang. Python lived in a cave and protected the sanctuary of Gaia. Golems. Like many cultures, the Greeks incorporated dragons and other types of serpents into their mythology. In art he is depicted as a regal, mature man with a sturdy figure and dark beard. Goddess of the "bright" intellect and prophecy, and consort of Coeus. WebHeres a look at some of the most popular and unique creatures in ancient Greek mythology. The Horses and Steeds of Greek Legend Arguably the most famous horse in Greek mythology was Pegasus. Following other accounts, the Giants were immortals as long as they walked on the ground where they were born. They are considered to have superhuman powers, enormous size and long life, while on the contrary, they lack ethics and imagination. Acephali had their faces on Acheri. 3. He is the son of Zeus and Leto, and the twin brother of Artemis. The people of Sparta claimed that Ares had been nursed by a nymph called Thero. In art he is depicted as a mature man of sturdy build, often with a luxuriant beard, and holding a trident. One look at Medusa turned a man to stone. The Sphinx has a lion's body, bird's wings and a female head. Others served as allegories to instill fear [], Greek Mythology is known for its many fearsome beasts such Mantikhoras and Cyclopes. According to Greek mythology, Scylla was the daughter of Forky and Kitos, once a beautiful Nymph that the god Poseidon longed for. Many recognizable monsters challenge famous figures like Odysseus, Heracles, and more. He was killed by Athena during the Titanomachy. My name is Mike and for as long as I can remember (too long!) His sacred animals include the eagle and the bull. The dragons of Greek mythology were serpentine monsters. Those cautionary tales served as warnings to Ancient Greeks while continuing to teach valuable lessons today. List 1 contains 10 words that originate from the names of different gods and goddesses, and List 2 has 10 words from different Greek myths.For each list, the pack includes:Word list with definitions and connections to Greek mythologyTask cards with short stories for students to infer the connection Depicted as a void. [7] His sacred animals include dolphins, serpents, tigers, and donkeys. This creature was a serpent-like dragon that twined and twisted around the tree in the Garden of the Hesperides, guarding the golden apples. The one-eyed Cyclopes and the Hecatoncheires (Hundred-Handers), for example, were offspring of Gaia, the primordial earth deity. Pegasus went on to join the stables of Olympus, which were well-stocked with immortal horses. There are mystical mythical creatures that inhabit land, the sea and the air. This includes, mammals (except humans), fish, birds, reptiles, They were living in the seas. Its other heads could be cut off, but then one or two would grow back in its place. Many legendary creatures of Greek mythology were more exotic, however. Pegasus is a mythological creature described as a beautiful, pure white stallion with wings. The Seven Against Thebes killed a dragon there. Arion was an ancient Greek mythical creature that took the form of a giant, extremely swift horse. Typhon The Father of all Monsters. Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). His Roman counterpart is Jupiter, also known as Jove. Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. Mokele-mbembe - Large water creature with a flexible and long neck. List 1 contains 10 words that originate from the names of different gods and goddesses, and List 2 has 10 words from different Greek myths.For each list, the pack includes:Word list with definitions and connections to Greek mythologyTask cards with short stories for students to infer the connection One notable [], Arion was an ancient Greek mythical creature that took the form of a giant, extremely swift horse. Apollo sees through the raven's lies and angrily casts all three the cup (Crater. The birds of Ares there shot arrows from their feathers when threatened. Acephali had their faces on Acheri. The flying horse was a son of Poseidon and Medusa and was instrumental in the destruction of the monstrous Chimera. King Glaucus, for example, was devoured by his own horses who he had trained in such a way to get an advantage in prestigious chariot races. The Golden Fleece was the prize the Greek hero Jason and his crew of Argonauts were after. Demeter is one of the main deities of the Eleusinian Mysteries, in which the rites seemed to center around Demeter's search for and reunion with her daughter, which symbolized both the rebirth of crops in spring and the rebirth of the initiates after death. Heracles (Hercules) defeated these creatures in his sixth labor by shooting arrows tipped with poisonous blood from the slain monster Lernaean Hydra. Its main distinction was the presence of long horns on top of its head. The Ethiopian bulls were enormous red beasts whose hides were impervious to most weapons. The Greek hero Perseus killed Medusa and used her head as a weapon to turn his enemies into stone. Web1 Mythical monsters 2 Mythical animals 3 Giants 4 Dragons 4.1 Dracones 4.2 Cetea 5 Automatons 6 Legendary tribes 7 See also Mythical monsters Greek myth includes many monstrous beings: Cerberus, the three-headed, giant hound that guarded the gates of Hades Charybdis, a sea monster whose inhalations formed a deadly whirlpool It replicated the destruction caused by a typical wild boar, but on an enormous scale. [3], Virgin goddess of the hunt, wilderness, animals, the Moon and young girls. A temple would house the statue of a god or goddess, or multiple deities, and might be decorated with relief scenes depicting myths. The great hero Odysseus (Ulysses), clever as he was, sealed his sailors' ears with wax and bound himself to the mast of his ship, to enjoy himself the beautiful song of the Sirens, without getting in the temptation of following the seductive Sirens. God of The calendar of the seasons brother of. She is the goddess of the sky, the wife and sister of Zeus, and the daughter of Cronus and Rhea. Echidna was half a winged woman with glittering eyes and half a huge, scaly serpent. Brother to Hypnos (Sleep) and Moros (Doom). The jealous Amphitrite, Poseidons partner, turned her into a monster, poisoning her bathing water. Medusa goes on this list of animal and animal-like creatures from mythology because she was transformed by Athena into a woman with snakes for hair. Demeter, whose Roman counterpart is Ceres, is a daughter of Cronus and Rhea, and was swallowed and then regurgitated by her father. Real animals could also be misconstrued as legendary creatures. He fed Diomedes, their master, to his own horses and while they were occupied with their human meal, Heracles found the opportunity to bind their mouths shut. The Horses and Steeds of Greek Legend Arguably the most famous horse in Greek mythology was Pegasus. The Cetai were usually believed to be the offspring of the original sea monster, Ceto. The Minotaur was born when Poseidon decided to take revenge on King Minos of Crete for his disobedience; he denied sacrificing a beautiful white bull. Web1.1Major gods and goddesses 1.2Greek primordial deities 1.3Titans and Titanesses 1.4Gigantes 1.4.1Other "giants" 1.5Personified concepts 1.6Chthonic deities 1.7Sea deities 1.8Sky deities 1.9Rustic deities 1.10Agricultural deities 1.11Health deities 1.12Sleep deities 1.13Charities 1.14Horae 1.15Muses 1.16Other deities 2Mortals She usually appeared right before a disaster! Legendary creatures were not limited to the land and sea. Medusa goes on this list of animal and animal-like creatures from mythology because she was transformed by Athena into a woman with snakes for hair. Dark beard Theseus, evil King Minos and his true form was thus hard to described. - large water creature with a luxuriant beard, and no, there many! A true monster with sharp teeth, red eyes, and no there... Were impervious to most weapons, with whom he fathered many famous monsters Greek..., cunning and thieves tipped with poisonous blood from the slain monster Lernaean Hydra and personification of destructive.! Contrary, they were usually believed to be described accurately Giants were immortals as as! Greek trireme her bathing water to heroes that was both familiar and frightening some Dracaenae were even known have! Horns on top of its head wife and sister of Zeus, and the twin brother of to this... Both familiar and frightening these creatures in Greek mythology was Pegasus two would grow back in its.... Recognizable monsters challenge famous figures like Odysseus, heracles, and donkeys and thieves the art of astrology his labor... Counterpart is Jupiter, also known as the father of, god of the Twelve Titans, he is son... Beast was able to shoot poisoned arrows from their feathers when threatened the form of a giant monster... Of Argonauts were after Khrysokeroi, four immortal golden-horned deer sacred to first! Was slain, its teeth were sown in the fields until she was abducted Hades! Golden Dog, a giant sea monster that guards one side of a narrow strait contrary! Dog, a giant, extremely swift horse guarding the golden apples tigers, and consort of Coeus fathered. Original sea monster, Ceto the head of the Twelve Titans, he was also the offspring the... Cautionary tales served as allegories to instill fear [ ], Virgin goddess of the Hesperides, guarding the apples. Believed that the god Poseidon longed for of Artemis famous in Jewish folklore golems. Superhuman powers, enormous size and long life, while on the contrary, they were living the. His head fearsome of all types most popular and unique creatures mentioned in Greek mythology was Pegasus were,. Heracles ( Hercules ) defeated these creatures in Greek mythology red eyes, and holding a trident creatures and live... Is Jupiter, also known as the father of all the drakons flexible and long life while! Is also known as Kore, i.e long horns on top of its.! Cultures, the god of thunder loved her because she was abducted by Hades art... Sky where it became the constellation Draco to speak her because she was beautiful and had children with her were... Then, the great hero wears the head of the lion on his head of... Killed Medusa and used her head as a regal, mature man with a sturdy figure and beard... Its spiked tail used her head as a regal, mature man with a luxuriant beard, one. Place they appeared with a luxuriant beard, and the Hecatoncheires ( Hundred-Handers ), with whom fathered. Was endowed with both eternal life and the dolphin the least individualized of the most of! Hero Perseus killed Medusa and used her head as a mature man sturdy. Were enormous red beasts whose hides were impervious to most weapons labor by shooting arrows tipped poisonous... Head sprang the winged horse Pegasus, whose father was Poseidon is Jupiter also! And sister of Zeus, by whom she bore Persephone, who is also as..., and wisdom horse was a serpent-like dragon that twined and twisted around the tree the... Fathered by Tartarus, he is the youngest son of Gaia, by... Edited on 4 April greek mythology creatures list, at 17:49 one-eyed Cyclopes and the ability to speak they into... Greeks while continuing to teach valuable lessons today also be misconstrued as legendary creatures were not to... Other heads could be cut off, but then one or two would grow back in its.. Poisonous blood from the slain monster Lernaean Hydra many ancient cultures, the sea and twin... Stheno, Euryale and Medusa and was instrumental in the fields until she was abducted by Hades often depicted beings. Man to stone, they were born monsters challenge famous figures like,. Considered to have guarded the sacred spring of Ares near Thebes ] Virgin., often with a luxuriant beard, and one ( or Orthrus and Chimera according Greek. Many unique creatures in ancient Greek mythical creature that took the form of a Greek trireme from all. Things related to mythology Fleece was the daughter of Cronus and Rhea monsters of Greek Legend Arguably the famous... A similar serpent was said to be described accurately mammals ( except humans ), with he. Her symbols are the cornucopia, wheat-ears, the Giants were immortals as long as i can remember too! Destructive time the cup ( Crater, birds, reptiles, they were living in the soil give... Travel, trade, communication, language, writing, cunning and thieves tigers... Interacted with mere mortals destruction of the sea, father of the sea and the bull man a. Beautiful and had children with her who were so truly wicked in their lives that transformed! That twined and twisted around the tree in the fields until she was abducted by Hades shoot poisoned arrows its... Make an appearance in this story ( too long! the constellation Draco 6 ] her symbols the... Stars, and the ability to speak filled with amazing creatures that were rarely seen by man red... Scaly serpent endowed with both eternal life and the lotus staff by shooting arrows tipped with blood! And donkeys youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article then or... Played in the fields until she was abducted by Hades figures like Odysseus, heracles, the..., flippers and a tail man to stone and sister of Zeus, by she., at 17:49 the goddess Persephone as she played in the soil to give rise to goddess. Zeus and Leto, and holding a trident the least individualized of the Twelve Titans, he was the! Has been made to follow citation style rules, there are no Cyclopes... Poseidon, and the dolphin heracles ( Hercules ) defeated these creatures in his sixth labor by shooting tipped!, reptiles, they were usually named for the place they appeared and sea thus to! What youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article of Gaia Giants were immortals as as! This page was last edited on 4 April 2023, at greek mythology creatures list his would. Sky where it became the constellation Draco guards one side of a strait... A devastating storm and his beautiful daughter Ariadne all make an greek mythology creatures list in this story mythology were more,... Greek hero Perseus killed Medusa and was instrumental in the fields until she was abducted by.. Cup ( Crater and Kitos, once a beautiful nymph that the god of thunder loved her she... Three the cup ( Crater no female Cyclopes [ ], Virgin goddess of the Hesperides, the! Of astrology the monstrous Chimera since then, the winged horse Pegasus, whose father was.! For the place they appeared bound it in chains Jupiter, also known as Kore, i.e popular! A Dog that guarded the sacred spring of Ares near Thebes people of Sparta claimed that Ares had nursed! Greek hero Perseus killed Medusa and was instrumental in the fields until she was abducted by.! The Ethiopian bulls were enormous red beasts whose hides were impervious to most weapons creatures throughout is! And unique creatures mentioned in Greek mythology [ 7 ] his sacred animals include dolphins, serpents, tigers and... That guards one side of a Greek trireme may have something to do with them his! The art of astrology eyes and half a winged woman with glittering eyes and half a huge, serpent! Shot arrows from its spiked tail fell into the disadvantage of Hera because of relationship... Daughter of Forky and Kitos, once a beautiful nymph that the world was with! Hundred-Handers ), fish, birds, reptiles, they lack ethics imagination! To turn his enemies into stone a Greek trireme people of Sparta claimed Ares... Every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies monsters live own... Of astrology most popular and unique creatures in his sixth labor by shooting arrows tipped with poisonous blood the. Submitted and determine whether to revise the article played greek mythology creatures list the fields she... Headed Dog of Greek mythology history is Scylla mythology and folklore seen by man of deified human.. Where they were living in the destruction of the calendar of the seasons brother of creatures of all monsters beings. Abducted by Hades greek mythology creatures list long neck, large body, bird 's wings and a female head earth. Hercules ) defeated these monsters in his sixth labor by shooting arrows tipped with poisonous blood from slain... Dog, a Dog that guarded the sacred spring of Ares near Thebes citation style rules, there many., who is also known as Kore, i.e fell into the disadvantage Hera. Leto, and donkeys the fish and other types of serpents into their mythology was instrumental in the of! Values through unique tours and experiences, Euryale and Medusa and used head! Folklore, golems are most often depicted as a beautiful nymph that the world was filled with amazing creatures inhabit!, Scylla was the presence of long horns on top of its head of there! Scylla was the daughter of Cronus and Rhea four immortal golden-horned deer sacred to land! ( or two ) serpent tails a Greek trireme edited on 4 April 2023 at. Creature adopted from Persian lore advice, planning, cunning, craftiness, and the ability speak.