Digital Maps of the Ancient World

Amphitrite

Amphitrite, the eldest of the Nereids, offered a fascinating contrast to her husband, Poseidon, the powerful god of the sea. While he embodied the raw, chaotic force of the ocean, she represented its calmer, more serene aspects. Together, they ruled a vast and complex domain, their contrasting personalities reflecting the ever-changing nature of the sea itself.

Mosaic in the House of Neptune and Amphitrite, Herculaneum. (c) Dave & Margie Hill

Residence: The Sea
Symbols: Fish and dolphin
Parents: Nereus and Doris
Siblings: The Nereids
Consort: Poseidon
Children: Triton and Rhodus
Roman equivalent: Salacia

When Poseidon, the powerful god of the sea, set his sights on Amphitrite, the eldest of the Nereids, as his bride, his advances were met with resistance. Unlike other goddesses who might have welcomed his attention, Amphitrite yearned for independence. Fleeing his pursuit, she sought refuge in the distant reaches of the earth, near the titan Atlas. Undeterred, Poseidon enlisted the help of Delphin, a cunning dolphin known for his swiftness and eloquence. Delphin successfully tracked down Amphitrite and, through persuasive words, convinced her to return and consider Poseidon’s proposal.

Art

Amphitrite bearing a trident on a pinax from Corinth, c. 575–550 BC.
Theseus and Amphitrite clasp hands, with Athena looking on red-figure cup, 500–490 BC. The Louvre.
Relief of the wedding of Amphitrite and Poseidon, 2nd c. BC. Munich Glyptothek.
Fresco of Amphitrite and Poseidon, Pompeii. Naples Archaeology Museum. (c) Stefano Bolognini
Mosaic of Amphitrite riding a hippocampus. Baths of Neptune, Ostia.
Triumph of Poseidon and Amphitrite. A detail of a vast mosaic from Cirta, c. 315–325 AD. The Louvre.