limnê

Limnê is a term in ancient Greek mythology referring to a specific type of nymph. These nymphs were associated with freshwater lakes and bodies of water, distinguishing them from other water deities like naiads, who were more broadly associated with all freshwater sources including rivers, springs, and wells. Limnê specifically inhabited lakes and ponds.

The characteristics and roles of limnê nymphs were generally benevolent, often depicted as guardians and preservers of their watery domains. They were believed to be responsible for the purity and health of the lakes they inhabited. Their presence was often associated with the natural beauty and tranquility of these aquatic environments. While not as prominent in major myths as some other deities, they were part of the broader animistic beliefs of ancient Greece, where natural features were imbued with spiritual significance and inhabited by divine beings. Their mythological existence reflected a deep connection between humans and the natural world, particularly its water resources.