Athena

How to recognise Athena

1. Stately womanShe is shown as a dignified grown woman, never as a child or a male figure.
2. Crested helmetLook for a crested Greek helmet, Attic or Corinthian in style, worn on her head or pushed back, marking her as a goddess of war.
3. Aegis with gorgoneionA goatskin cape or short breastplate fringed with snakes, with the Gorgon's head at its centre, is her key identifying attribute.
4. SpearA long spear, usually held upright, shows her armed but composed.
5. Round shieldA large round shield often rests at her side, a sign of her role as defender.
6. Little owlA small owl perched or flying beside her is her bird of watchful wisdom.
7. Olive branchSometimes she carries an olive branch or stands by an olive tree, recalling her gift to Athens.
8. Belted robeA long belted peplos or chiton gives her a modest, dignified look.

Names and titles

• Bright-Eyed GoddessHomeric glaukopis, 'bright-eyed' or 'with gleaming eyes'
• Protectress of the CityAthena Polias, guardian of Athens and of towns
• Giver of the OliveShe won Athens from Poseidon by creating the first olive tree
• Patroness of CraftsAthena Ergane, 'the Industrious', patron of craftsmen, weavers and artisans
• The Maiden GoddessAthena Parthenos, the virgin goddess who gave the Parthenon its name

Feast days

• Khalkeia10 November 2026