Zeus

Zeus is the sky and thunder god of ancient Greek religion and the ruler of Mount Olympus, where the principal gods resided. He is commonly regarded as the king of the gods and as a god who oversees the heavens, weather, law, and social order. His attributes include the thunderbolt and eagle, and the oak as sacred tree in some cults.

Zeus is the son of Cronus and Rhea. He overthrew Cronus with the help of his siblings after Cronus had swallowed his children. Following the Titanomachy, the Olympian gods took their place in the world. Zeus is husband to Hera, though he fathered many offspring with both goddesses and mortal women, including Athena, Apollo, Artemis, Hermes, Dionysus, Perseus, and Heracles, among others.

Zeus played a central role in many myths and cult practices. His principal sanctuary was at Olympia, where the statue of Zeus was housed and the Olympic Games were held in his honor. In daily worship he was also known as Zeus Xenios, protector of guests and hospitality. In art and literature, he is depicted as a regal, bearded figure wielding the thunderbolt.