Cretan Goddesses: The Last of the Holy Trinity

In this episode we delve into the fascinating world of Cretan goddesses, focusing on Diktynna, Britomartis, and Artemis. These deities offer a rich tapestry of mythology and history that spans from the ancient Minoan civilization to classical Greek times. Diktynna, often associated with Britomartis, was a revered goddess of mountains and hunting in Crete, worshipped since the Minoan era (circa 2000-1450 BCE). Known for her escape from King Minos by leaping into the sea, Britomartis was transformed into a goddess by Artemis, symbolizing freedom and protection.

As we explore the connections between these goddesses, we see how Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, absorbed many attributes of her Cretan counterparts. The Temple of Aphaia on Aegina, dating back to the 5th century BCE, stands as a significant archaeological site that highlights ...