Who is Hera?
Hera is the queen of the Greek gods and the goddess of marriage and family. She is one of the Olympian gods and is married to Zeus, the king of the gods.
Origins and family
Hera is the daughter of the Titans Cronus and Rhea. She has siblings among Zeus's brothers and sisters, including Demeter, Hestia, Hades, and Poseidon. In many myths she is both sister and wife to Zeus, and together they rule Mount Olympus. Hera is sometimes said to be the mother of several gods and goddesses, such as Ares, Hephaestus, Hebe and Eileithyia (though myth versions vary).
Powers
As goddess of marriage and family, Hera can bless marriages and assist with childbirth. She is immortal and has powers typical of the Olympian gods. Hera also guards the sanctity of married life. In many stories she can be quick to anger or jealous about Zeus's lovers and their children.
Symbols
- Peacock
- Cow
- Lily or iris flowers
- Diadem or crown
- Scepter
Roles and domains
Hera's main roles are as the queen of the gods and the goddess of marriage, family and women. She is the patron of wives, mothers and childbirth, and she protects and honors family life and loyal marriage. In myths she also upholds divine order among the gods and can enforce consequences when oaths or marriages are broken.