Epona, the Celtic goddess of horses

Epona, the Celtic Goddess associated with horses, fertility and nature, left her mark on culture and society.
Depicted in various forms, such as riding a horse or feeding foals, Epona is also associated with death according to Celtic mythology.
Her influence has spread from ancient Rome to various regions of Europe.
In addition, Epona is recognized in popular culture for her appearance in The Legend of Zelda video game series.

Epona: Horses, fertility and nature

Epona, in Celtic mythology, goddess of horses, has left a deep imprint on culture and history.
Here we will explore her influence in some key aspects.

The figure of Epona in Celtic Mythology

In Celtic mythology, Epona occupies a special place as the goddess of horses.
Her name varies from region to region, being known as Epona in general, Edain in Ireland and Rhiannon in Welsh mythology.
Depictions of Epona vary, but it is common to see her riding a horse, among a herd of horses or feeding foals.
However, her significance transcends these physical representations.

Epona in culture and history

The cult of Epona spread widely, covering regions such as Gaul, Thrace, Pannonia, Dacia, Rhineland, Brittany, Dalmatia and Rome.
Even in ancient Rome, Epona was venerated as the only Gallic goddess integrated into the Roman pantheon.
Both in the army and in Roman households, she was honored as a goddess of abundance and prosperity.
Her cult was so important that an official festival was held in her honor on December 18 in Rome.

Epona’s connection to fertility and nature

Epona’s influence also extends to the realm of fertility and nature.
The Celts believed that horses were guides for souls, and in some depictions, Epona appears with a key, a map or a blueprint to guide the dead to the afterlife.
This duality between life and death further reinforces their connection to fertility and nature, as horses are considered symbols of vitality and energy.

Epona in popular culture and video games

Epona has also left her mark on popular culture, especially in the world of video games.
In the acclaimed installment of The Legend of Zelda saga, ‘Breath of The Wild’, Epona makes a prominent appearance.

Epona in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of The Wild

In this epic game, Epona becomes the protagonist’s faithful mount, accompanying him on his journey through vast landscapes and imposing battles.
Riding Epona gives players a special connection to nature and the freedom to explore the vast realm of Hyrule.

Epona’s role in other Zelda games

Epona’s presence is not limited to just ‘Breath of The Wild’, but spans several installments of the famous video game saga.
From ‘Ocarina of Time’ to ‘Twilight Princess’, Epona has become a recognizable icon in the Zelda universe, providing an inseparable companion for the various heroes who have embarked on their adventures.

Throughout these installments, players can enjoy thrilling moments on Epona’s back, explore mysterious lands and ride through vast meadows or enchanted forests.
The presence of the Celtic goddess adds a touch of magic to the gaming experience.

Epona, with her charm and symbolic power, has left an indelible mark on popular culture and video games, becoming a beloved and recognizable character in the Zelda universe.
Her beauty and loyalty make her a natural choice as an adventuring companion for players who wish to explore virtual worlds full of danger and wonder.

It couldn’t be anything else.
Here are several options to take home Epona as a featured character in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
Shall we play?