hestia goddess statue

Description

Hestia, in Greek mythology, was the virgin Greek goddess of the hearth, hearth, architecture, domestic life, family, state, and mystical fire. Daughter of Cronus and Rhea, she was one of the twelve Olympian deities. Courted by Poseidon and Apollo, she swore virginity before Zeus, and from him received the honor of being venerated in all homes, being included in all sacrifices, and remaining in peace in her palace, surrounded by the respect of gods and mortals. Although she does not appear frequently in mythological stories, she was admired by all the gods. She was the personification of the stable dwelling, where people gathered to pray and offer sacrifices to the gods. She was worshipped as the protector of cities, families, and colonies. Her sacred flame burned continuously in homes and temples. All cities possessed the fire of Hestia, placed in the palace where the tribes gathered. This fire was supposed to be obtained directly from the sun.