Diana the huntress at the Louvre, Paris, France

cults3d

In ancient Roman mythology, Diana emerged as the goddess of hunting, moonlit nights and childbirth, commanding respect for her association with untamed creatures and dense forests. As a powerful figure, she possessed the unique ability to converse with and dominate animals at will. Although linked to the Greek goddess Artemis, Diana's origins were deeply rooted in Italian culture, making her an independent entity within Roman mythology. Diana played a pivotal role in ancient Roman worship and continues to be revered by followers of Roman Neopaganism and Stregheria. Dianic Wicca, a predominantly feminist practice, bears her name as a testament to her significance. As the virgin goddess of childbirth and women, Diana stood out among her peers, refusing marriage like her fellow maiden goddesses Minerva and Vesta. Sacred oak groves held great importance for Diana, who was said to have been born alongside her twin brother Apollo on the island of Delos as the daughter of Jupiter and Latona. Alongside Egeria, a water nymph who served as both her attendant and midwife, and Virbius, the woodland god, Diana formed an influential trio that commanded respect in Roman mythology.