Digital Maps of the Ancient World

Deer

The Ceryneian Hind

This magnificent creature, with shimmering golden antlers, was sacred to the goddess Artemis, the protector of the wild. As one of his twelve labors, Heracles was tasked with capturing it alive for the power-hungry King Eurystheus.

The chase became a legendary feat of endurance. For a full year, Heracles tirelessly pursued the elusive hind across mountains and valleys. Finally, on Mount Artemision, he cornered it. The ensuing struggle was fierce, resulting in a broken antler. Emerging victorious, but respectful of the deer’s sacred status, Heracles approached Artemis for her blessing. The enraged goddess confronted him, but Heracles, ever the diplomat, managed to appease her. He convinced Artemis to let him borrow the broken antler as proof of his accomplishment, finally completing this arduous labor.

The Other Golden-Horned Deer

The fate of the other four deer blessed by Artemis differed. Unlike the elusive Ceryneian Hind, these magnificent creatures weren’t destined for freedom. Instead, they were harnessed to Artemis’ magnificent chariot, a dazzling sight as they pulled the goddess across the heavens. Their golden forms, forever linked to the huntress, became a symbol of her dominion over the wild and the swiftness with which she protected her domain.