Latinus

Who was Latinus?

Latinus was an important person in old stories from both Greek and Roman mythology. People tell many different stories about him, so he looks a little different in each one.

In Greek stories, Latinus might be the son of Odysseus, the hero who traveled home after the Trojan War, and a magical woman named Circe. Sometimes he is said to be the child of Zeus, the king of the gods, and a woman named Pandora.

Latinus in Roman Stories

In Roman stories, Latinus is often a kind king. He ruled a group of people called the Latins. He is sometimes said to be the son of Faunus, a god of forests, and Marica, a water goddess.

Latinus welcomed another famous hero, Aeneas, and his group of Trojans who were looking for a new home. He offered them a place to live in Old Latium.

Why Do We Remember Latinus?

People remember Latinus because his stories connect to many other famous heroes and gods. His tale helped link the adventures of Odysseus, Aeneas, and even the beginning of Rome itself.