Pan’s Cave

To generate panic anguish – this is what Pan, the Greek mythology’s shepherd god, liked to do. Especially when he felt himself disturbed during his siesta. Then he caused anguish and panic among the droves he protected, playing his flute. Half human-being, half goat, he is equal to the Roman faun and, during the Middle Age, was the depiction of the devil. His character is as diverse as his origin is uncertain. Once he is called son of Hermes and the oak nymph Dryops, then son of Zeus and Callisto or Hybris, then again son of Kronos and Aix, who is said to have been Zeus’ nana. All sources have in common that they describe him as tricksy and wigged. Pan is known for his music and his joy, and his passion for Selene, the moon goddess. He usually is clothed into a buck skin cloak, carrying a crook (shepherd’s staff) or his flute. According to Herodot, Pan promised the Athenians to help them in their fight against the Persians, but under the condition that they would give him a sanctuary. Pan’s cave is situated below the Propylaea.




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