The Olympian gods are the principal deities of the Greek pantheon, residing on Mount Olympus. These gods gained prominence after Zeus led his siblings to victory over the Titans, establishing a new order. The standard list includes twelve major gods: Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Demeter, Athena, Apollo, Artemis, Ares, Aphrodite, Hephaestus, Hermes, and either Hestia or Dionysus. However, there was no definitive list and the number varies because some gods rose in favor while others were discarded. Hades is sometimes excluded because he resided in the Underworld rather than on Mount Olympus.
Each Olympian had distinct roles and responsibilities, embodying different aspects of life, nature, and human experience. Zeus was the King of the Gods, ruling the sky and wielding thunderbolts. Poseidon ruled the sea, and was capable of causing earthquakes. Hera was the Queen of the Gods, associated with marriage and women. Apollo was the god of music, light, and prophecy, and Artemis was his twin sister who protected animals. Although divine, the Olympians possessed human-like qualities, including flaws and emotions, often intervening in human affairs. They maintained their immortality by consuming ambrosia and nectar. Today, the term "Olympian" has evolved to describe anything majestic or superior.
