Hermes

Hermes was the fastest of all the Greek gods. He wore winged sandals that let him fly anywhere in a flash. He was the messenger of the gods, delivering news between Mount Olympus and Earth. He was also clever and loved playing tricks.

A Tricky Baby

Hermes was mischievous from the very start. On the day he was born, he snuck out and stole Apollo's cattle. He also invented the lyre that day from a tortoise shell. When Zeus found out, he laughed because Hermes was so clever.

Guide and Protector

Hermes guided travelers and kept them safe on their journeys. He also led the souls of the dead to the underworld. Merchants and traders prayed to Hermes for good luck. His symbol was a staff with two snakes wrapped around it.

Fun Facts

• Hermes' staff with two snakes is called a caduceus.
• He invented the alphabet, numbers, and astronomy according to some myths.
• The planet Mercury is named after the Roman version of Hermes.

Did You Know?

Hermes was so fast that he could travel from Mount Olympus to Earth in the blink of an eye. The word 'hermeneutics,' meaning the study of interpretation, comes from his name!