Ganymede

Greek myths describe Ganymede as a handsome boy who was kidnapped by the gods to serve as a cupbearer on Mount Olympus*. Born in Troy*, where his father was king, Ganymede came to the attention of Zeus*, who was captivated by his appearance. In some stories, it is Zeus disguised as an eagle—or an eagle sent by Zeus—who seizes the boy and carries him up to the home of the gods.

In return for his son, Ganymede's father received a group of immortal horses from Zeus. Some versions of the tale say that the gift was a vine made of gold. Later Zeus placed Ganymede in the sky in the constellation Aquarius. Images of Ganymede sometimes show him carrying a cup or accompanied by an eagle.

See also Zeus .