Who Was Poseidon? The God of the Sea in Greek Mythology
- Greece Media
- Jul 14
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 3
Poseidon is one of the most powerful and enduring figures of Greek mythology. Known as the god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses, he commanded respect and fear from both mortals and gods. His image holding a trident has become one of the most recognizable symbols from the ancient world. To understand Poseidon is to look at his origins, his personality, his myths, and his lasting influence on culture.
Poseidon Origins and Family
Poseidon was the son of Cronus and Rhea, making him a brother of Zeus and Hades. According to myth, Cronus swallowed his children to prevent them from overthrowing him, but Zeus forced Cronus to release them. After a ten-year war known as the Titanomachy, the three brothers divided the cosmos. Zeus took the sky, Hades the underworld, and Poseidon the sea.
This division gave Poseidon an immense domain. The Greeks viewed the sea as both a source of life and a force of chaos. Poseidon’s position as its ruler made him a god both worshiped and feared.
Poseidon Appearance and Symbols
Poseidon was usually depicted as a bearded man of great strength, holding his trident, a three-pronged spear. The trident could shake the earth, create storms, and shatter any object. Horses were sacred to him, and myths credit him with creating the first horse. His connection to both the sea and horses reflects the dual nature of his power: untamed and unstoppable.
Poseidon Personality and Reputation
Unlike some of the other Olympian gods, Poseidon was known for his temper. When angered, he could cause devastating storms or earthquakes, leading sailors and coastal cities to live in constant respect of his will. At the same time, he could be generous, offering calm seas and protection to those who honored him. His unpredictable nature symbolized the ever-changing sea itself.
Poseidon Role in Greek Myths
Poseidon appears throughout Greek mythology in both major and minor stories. Some of the most famous include:
The Contest for Athens – Poseidon competed with Athena to become the patron of Athens. He struck the ground with his trident and created a saltwater spring, but Athena’s olive tree was chosen as the more useful gift.
The Walls of Troy – Poseidon helped build the walls of Troy, but when he was not paid for his labor, he sent a sea monster against the city.
Poseidon and Odysseus – In Homer’s Odyssey, Poseidon punished Odysseus for blinding his son, the Cyclops Polyphemus, by making his journey home long and perilous.
Creation of Horses – Some myths credit Poseidon with creating the first horse and even being worshiped as a god of horsemanship.
These stories highlight his dual nature as both protector and destroyer, a god who could reward loyalty but devastate those who offended him.
Worship in Ancient Greece
Worship of Poseidon was widespread, especially in coastal cities and among sailors. Major sanctuaries included the Isthmus of Corinth, where the Isthmian Games were held in his honor. Sacrifices of bulls and horses were common offerings. Farmers and travelers also prayed to Poseidon, as earthquakes and sea storms affected every part of life.
Death and Immortality
As an Olympian god, Poseidon was immortal and did not experience death in the way mortals or even heroes like Hercules did. Instead, his mythological story is one of enduring power and influence. He remained a central figure in Greek religion, shaping the way ancient people viewed both the dangers and blessings of the sea.
Role in Ancient Culture
In Greek culture, Poseidon represented more than the sea. He embodied the unpredictability of nature and the need for respect toward forces beyond human control. His image was carved into temples, coins, and statues, reminding people of his authority. In Roman mythology, Poseidon was known as Neptune and maintained a similar role as the god of the sea.
Poseidon in Modern Times
Today, Poseidon remains one of the most recognizable gods of Greek mythology. His image is common in art, literature, and popular culture. From classical paintings to modern films, he is often portrayed as a powerful figure rising from the sea with his trident in hand. The idea of the sea god continues to influence modern stories about power, unpredictability, and respect for nature.
Where You Can Find Statues or Temples of Poseidon
Poseidon, god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses, was worshipped at dramatic coastal sanctuaries across the Greek world.
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean, this iconic temple near Athens is one of the most famous ancient sites in Greece.
Sanctuary of Poseidon at Isthmia (near Corinth): A major cult center where athletic games were held in his honor.
Temple of Poseidon at Kalaureia (Poros Island): A regional sanctuary with remains still visible today.
Statues of Poseidon in Museums: The Artemision Bronze in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, often identified as Poseidon, is one of the most striking surviving Greek bronzes.
These sites reflect Poseidon’s power over the seas and his enduring importance to sailors, travelers, and city-states dependent on maritime trade.
FAQs About Poseidon
Who was Poseidon in Greek mythology?
Poseidon was the Greek god of the sea, earthquakes, and horses. He was one of the twelve Olympians and brother to Zeus and Hades.
What was Poseidon known for?
He was known for ruling the oceans with his trident, causing earthquakes, and being a protector of sailors.
What were Poseidon’s symbols?
His main symbols included the trident, horse, dolphin, and bull.
Where was Poseidon worshipped?
Poseidon was worshipped at coastal sanctuaries such as Cape Sounion, Isthmia near Corinth, and Kalaureia on Poros Island.
What was Poseidon’s Roman name?
The Romans called Poseidon Neptune, who shared many of the same traits as god of the sea.
Did Poseidon have children?
Yes, Poseidon fathered many children, both mortal and divine, including Theseus, the Cyclops Polyphemus, and Triton.
Conclusion: Why Poseidon Still Matters
Poseidon is remembered as one of the great Olympian gods, a figure whose influence stretched across land and sea. His myths show the balance between generosity and destruction, safety and chaos, order and wildness. For the ancient Greeks, Poseidon explained the mysteries of the sea. For us today, he remains a symbol of power and the enduring force of myth.
Explore More Greek Gods
Aphrodite | Apollo | Ares | Artemis | Athena | Demeter | Dionysus | Hephaestus | Hera | Hermes | Hestia | Poseidon | Zeus
This article was written by GetGreece (Formerly GreeceMedia).
