Aphrodite

ancient Greece · mythology · goddess

Seashells and doves. Aphrodite's favorite symbols were seashells, roses, myrtles, doves, sparrows, and swans. People used these objects in temples and festivals to honor her.

Island worship centers. Aphrodite was worshipped in four main places across ancient Greece: Cythera, Cyprus, Corinth, and Athens. Her temples in these cities were visited by many people seeking her blessings.

Summer celebrations. Every year in midsummer, ancient Greeks held a big festival called the Aphrodisia to celebrate Aphrodite with special ceremonies and offerings.

Warrior goddess too. In one part of Greece called Laconia, Aphrodite was honored not just as a love goddess but also as a fierce warrior who protected her people in battle.

Origins from older gods. Aphrodite's story may have come from even older goddesses worshipped by other ancient peoples, like the Phoenician goddess Astarte and the Sumerian goddess Inanna.