Hestia

myminifactory

Hestia was revered as the powerful goddess of home fires, family ties, and domestic tranquility. Her worship took place behind closed doors, with no grand temples or shrines in her honor; this stark contrasted with her Roman counterpart Vesta, who embodied the public hearth. The name Hestia itself denoted a cozy abode and warm hearthstone, symbolizing the love and security that dwelled within its walls. She also served as a unifying force between colonies and mother cities, fostering strong bonds and mutual respect. As Zeus' sister, Hestia initially held a place among the Olympian gods, but was eventually replaced by Dionysus. She vowed to remain chaste, resisting the allure of Poseidon's seductive waves and Apollo's charming melodies; once, she narrowly escaped the clutches of Priapus, a minor god of fertility, thanks to the timely braying of a loyal mule. Hestia is often referred to as Vesta.