What Did Hermes Have on His Feet?

Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, messenger of the gods and protector of travelers, is often depicted with wings on his feet. But what exactly did Hermes have on his feet?

The Winged Sandals of Hermes

According to Greek mythology, Hermes wore a pair of winged sandals that allowed him to fly and move quickly. These sandals were also known as “talaria” in Latin.

The sandals were made by Hephaestus, the god of blacksmiths and metalworking.

They were fashioned from gold and had wings attached to them which allowed Hermes to fly across great distances.

The sandals also gave Hermes incredible speed, allowing him to run faster than any other god or mortal. This made him an ideal messenger for the other gods, as he could travel quickly between them.

Symbolism

The winged sandals of Hermes became a symbol for travelers and messengers in ancient Greece. They represented speed, agility, and freedom.

Many depictions of Hermes show him wearing these iconic sandals. He is often shown mid-flight with his feet lifted off the ground as if he was about to take off into the sky.

Other Symbols

Caduceus

In addition to his winged sandals, Hermes is also often depicted carrying a caduceus – a staff with two snakes intertwined around it. The caduceus was a symbol of trade and commerce in ancient Greece and became associated with Hermes due to his role as a messenger.

Petasus

Another symbol associated with Hermes is the petasus – a broad-brimmed hat that was worn by travelers. The petasus was often depicted in art along with the winged sandals and caduceus.

Conclusion

The winged sandals of Hermes were an iconic symbol in ancient Greece, representing speed, agility, and freedom. They allowed Hermes to fly and run at incredible speeds, making him an ideal messenger for the gods. Along with his caduceus and petasus, they became one of the most recognizable symbols of Greek mythology.

Overall, the winged sandals of Hermes were a significant aspect of Greek mythology and continue to be a popular symbol today.