What is the myth of Castor and Pollux?

The myth of Castor ad Pollux has the twins as the children of Leda and Zeus (or Jupiter for the Romans). They help various heroes on their epic adventures. Castor was considered a skilled horse-tamer while Pollux possessed great boxing skills.

What were Castor and Pollux known for?

Castor and Pollux are known for being semi-divine twins in Greek and Roman mythology. The sons of Zeus or Jupiter, they are excellent at sports and protect warriors in battle.

What is the link between Castor and Pollux and Gemini?

The twin brothers Castor and Pollux from Greco-Roman mythology are represented as the two brightest stars in the constellation Gemini.

Castor and Pollux

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Definition

Castor and Pollux (the Dioscuri) are figures from Greek and Roman mythology considered the twin sons of Zeus or Jupiter. Semi-divine figures, the twins were credited with the role of saving those in trouble at sea or in grave danger in war. They were particularly associated with horses and sports.

More about: Castor and Pollux

Timeline

484 BCE
The first temple of the Dioscuri (Castor & Pollux) is dedicated in Rome's Forum Romanum by Aulus Postumius following his victory over the Latins at the Battle of Lake Regillus.
c. 10 BCE
Augustus rebuilds the Temple of Castor and Pollux in Rome's Forum Romanum.