Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, messenger of the gods, and patron of travelers, is often depicted wearing a helmet. But what kind of helmet does Hermes wear? Let’s explore.
The Winged Helmet
One of the most common depictions of Hermes shows him wearing a winged helmet. This type of helmet was popular among ancient Greeks and was often worn by warriors. It was made of bronze and had two large wings attached to the sides.
The wings on the helmet symbolize Hermes’ speed as the messenger of the gods. It’s said that he could travel great distances in a short amount of time, thanks to his winged sandals and his winged helmet.
The Petasos
Another type of headgear associated with Hermes is the petasos. This was a wide-brimmed hat made from felt or straw and was worn by travelers in ancient Greece. The petasos had a chin strap to keep it in place during windy weather.
In some depictions, Hermes is shown wearing a petasos instead of a winged helmet. This represents his role as the patron god of travelers and merchants.
The Caduceus
While not technically a type of headgear, it’s worth mentioning that Hermes is often depicted carrying a caduceus. This is a staff with two snakes wrapped around it and topped with wings.
The caduceus is another symbol of Hermes’ role as the messenger between mortals and gods. It’s said that he used this staff to guide people on their journeys and protect them from harm.
In Conclusion
In summary, Hermes is often depicted wearing either a winged helmet or a petasos hat. The winged helmet represents his speed as the messenger god while the petasos represents his role as patron god of travelers.
Regardless of what he’s wearing on his head, Hermes is always depicted as a powerful and important figure in Greek mythology. His symbols and stories continue to inspire us today, reminding us of the importance of communication, commerce, and travel.