Minerva

• Citations for source (s) of myth

Minerva ( Etruscan: menvra ) is a Roman goddess who was especially worshiped by the Sabines, the Etruscans and Latins.

In the Roman Empire Minerva was regarded as the protector of artisans and crafts. Over time, it was equated with the Greek goddess Athena, and so was also the patron goddess of poets and teachers. Minerva was the goddess of wisdom, tactical warfare, art and shipbuilding as well as the guardian of knowledge. The main festival of Minerva, the Quinquatrus ( March 19, later from March 19 to March 23 ), was especially celebrated as the feast of artisan guilds and guilds. In the 18th century held the Minerva celebrations for precursors of Gregorius removals due to the elements of this feast, and many other indications.

Later, the ideas of the Greek Athenekultes have been incorporated into the image of Minerva. Since Augustus has she worshiped as the victorious imparting or the fortunes of the state directing goddess.

In Rome Minerva was worshiped alongside Jupiter and Juno as one of the three city gods in the Capitol. Her temple once stood in the middle of the Aventinhügels. Today, however, no remains have survived it. A second temple was located - also since the Republican period - on the Esquiline. This was the Minerva Medica ordained, which was the patroness of physicians. A third temple was located on the Caelian Hill. This was named as the cult image had been stolen by 241 BC the Romans conquered Falerii from the "Temple of Minerva Capta ."

The Minerva is the emblem of the Max Planck Society and was also Signet of the predecessor organization, the Kaiser Wilhelm Society. They can also be found on the California seal.