What Is Hermes Called in Roman?

Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, communication, and travelers, is known by a different name in Roman mythology. In fact, most Greek gods have a Roman counterpart with a different name. The Romans adopted many Greek myths and gods but gave them their own names and attributes.

In Roman mythology, Hermes is called Mercury. The name Mercury comes from the Latin word “merx,” which means merchandise or trade.

Mercury was also associated with communication and travel just like Hermes. But while Hermes was known for his cunning and trickery in Greek myths, Mercury was seen as a more benevolent figure in Roman mythology.

Mercury was often depicted wearing a winged helmet and sandals that allowed him to move quickly across great distances. He also carried a caduceus, which is a staff with two snakes winding around it. The caduceus became the symbol of medicine in modern times but originally represented commerce and negotiation.

Mercury was an important god for ancient Romans because he represented the stability of trade and commerce that was crucial for their economy. He was also associated with fertility and prosperity since agriculture and trade were closely linked in ancient times.

The cult of Mercury became popular in ancient Rome during the first century BCE when merchants began to form guilds to protect their interests. These guilds would offer sacrifices to Mercury at his temple on the Aventine Hill in Rome.

In addition to his role as a god of commerce, travel, and fertility, Mercury also had connections to other gods in Roman mythology. He was often paired with Venus as her lover or with Apollo as his companion on journeys.

Overall, while Hermes may be more well-known today thanks to popular culture references such as Disney’s “Hercules,” it’s important to remember that he had a counterpart in Roman mythology called Mercury who played an important role in ancient society.