Athena
Goddess of wisdom
Athena or Athene, often given the epithet Pallas, is an ancient Greek
goddess associated with
wisdom, handicraft, and warfare who was later
syncretized with the Roman goddess Minerva. Athena was regarded as the
patron and protectress of various cities across Greece, particularly the
city of Athens, from which she most likely received her name. The
Parthenon on the Acropolis of Athens is dedicated to her.
Her major symbols include
owls, olive trees, snakes, and the Gorgoneion. In art, she is
generally depicted wearing a helmet and holding a spear.