Minoan Snake Goddess

Ancient Greek Mythology, Religion, Art

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Aside from images of bulls, the only obvious deity we have from ancient Crete is the so-called Snake Goddess, perhaps an Earth Goddess who is holding two snakes in her outstretched hands.

More than one variation on her has been found, but they all show her with a flounced skirt, and open bodice (evidently standard among Minoan women), and a dove perched on her head which signifies her being divine. She also, of course, held the snakes: sometimes to her sides, sometimes in front of her, and sometimes straight up in the air.

The exact meaning of the snake in Minoan religion is unclear, but snakes could be found in religious systems all around the ancient world. Often the snakes are believed to be incarnations of the dead and symbolize immortality by the fact that they shed their skins and regularly renew themselves.

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