Iuno

Iuno, also known as Juno, is a prominent figure in Roman mythology. She is the queen of the gods, the goddess of marriage, and childbirth. Her Greek counterpart is Hera. Iuno is the daughter of Saturn and Ops, and the sister of Jupiter, Neptune, Pluto, Ceres, and Vesta. She is married to Jupiter, the king of the gods, a relationship often depicted as tumultuous due to Jupiter's infidelity.

Iuno is frequently portrayed as a majestic and powerful goddess, often depicted wearing a crown and carrying a scepter. She is associated with symbols such as the peacock, cow, and lily. Her epithets reflect her various roles, including Iuno Regina (Queen), Iuno Moneta (Adviser and Warner), and Iuno Lucina (Light-Bringer, associated with childbirth).

As the protector of women, marriage, and family, Iuno was widely revered by Roman women, particularly during significant life events like weddings and childbirth. She was invoked for blessings and protection in these matters. However, her role as a jealous and vengeful wife, especially towards Jupiter's lovers and illegitimate children, is also a significant aspect of her mythology. This aspect often led to her intervention in the lives of mortals and heroes, most notably in the story of Aeneas, where she actively sought to thwart his journey to Italy. Her worship was central to Roman religious practice, with numerous temples and festivals dedicated to her throughout the Roman Republic and Empire.