The Story of Ourea
The Ourea were the primordial gods of the mountains. According to Hesiod, Gaia gave birth to them on her own, without a partner, at the beginning of creation. They were among the first features of the earth, rising up as she shaped the world.
Each great mountain was imagined as its own god. Ancient writers did not give a fixed number, since any great peak could be seen as one of them, though some lists name mountains such as Olympus, Helicon, Athos, Parnassus and Cithaeron. In art, a mountain god might appear as an old man rising from behind his peak.
The Ourea had little worship as a group and few stories of their own. Yet the mountains of Greece were full of sacred places, from Mount Olympus, home of the gods, to Mount Helicon, home of the Muses. The Ourea gave the Greeks a way to see each great mountain as a living presence.
Ourea's Family Tree
Parents of Ourea
Partners of Ourea
Children of Ourea
Frequently Asked Questions About Ourea
Who are the Ourea in Greek mythology?
The Ourea are the primordial gods of the mountains. Each great mountain was imagined as its own god.
Who are the Ourea's parents?
According to Hesiod, Gaia gave birth to the Ourea on her own.
How many Ourea are there?
Ancient writers did not give a fixed number, since any great mountain could be seen as one of them.
