Greek Mythology Notes

Callidice

nymph
Καλλιδίκη
springs, beauty

One of the nymphs of Eleusis who welcomed Demeter during her search for Persephone.

The Myth

When Demeter wandered the earth in grief after Persephone's abduction, she arrived at Eleusis disguised as an old woman. Callidice was among the daughters of King Celeus who met the goddess at the well and invited her to their home. This act of hospitality set in motion the founding of the Eleusinian Mysteries, the most sacred religious rites in ancient Greece.

Parents

Celeus, Metaneira

Symbols

wellhospitality

Fun Fact

The well where Callidice met Demeter, called the Kallichoron, has been archaeologically identified at the Eleusis site near Athens.

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