Hestia
	Drawing of Hestia, based on Murray, Alexander S. The Manual of Mythology, published 1993.

Hestia is the Goddess of the hearth and home. Although she is not often referred to in mythology, she is much revered as the protector of the home and as a guardian of children. Most importantly, she is seen as the goddess of the fire which burns within each hearth and, symbolically, within each of us. Hestia vowed to remain a maiden forever, in a symbolic gesture of spiritual purity and integrity. Even Aphrodite was unable to weave her magic on Hestia. Many towns in Ancient Greece had public hearths which were never allowed to go out. These hearths were considered altars to Hestia. To some, she is considered the first among the Olympians, even above Zeus.

In Roman mythology, Hestia is referred to as Vesta.

Genealogy: Hestia is the eldest daughter of the Titans Cronus and Rhea. She is the sister of Zeus (King of Gods), Poseidon (God of the Sea), Hades (God of the Underworld) and Demeter.

Symbols: Fire.