Belisama

Belisama is a Celtic craft goddess. In the interpretatio romana she is equated with the Roman Minerva.

Etymology and Mythology

The name Belisama means "the brightest sort ", " the brightest ". Belisama was worshiped in Gaul and Britain, and was connected with lakes and rivers, crafts and arts, fire and light. You may have been the companion of Benelos, the two names have the same roots.

A Latin inscription from Pont de Saint- Liziers in the department of Ariège, the ancient Consoranni is:

Another inscription in the Gallic language, which in Vaison -la -Romaine ( Vaucluse ) was found indicates that it was consecrated a shrine ( Nemeton ):

An estuary with the name Belisama ( Βελίσαμα ) appears on the map of Britain by Ptolemy which either the mouth of the Ribble and the Mersey is meant.

Belisama can still be found today in the French place names Belesmes, Blesmes and Blismes.