During the time of ancient Greece, the powerful god Poseidon rose from the depths of the sea and journeyed to Attica. There, upon the rocky hill of the Acropolis, he found King Cecrops overseeing the birth of a new city. Poseidon stepped forward and addressed the king: "Offer this city to me," he said, "and name it Poseidonia. In return, your city shall rule the seas and grow mighty with naval power." With that, he struck the ground with his trident. The rock split, and from it surged a spring of salt water—wild and endless, a gift from the god of the sea. "This is my offering," he declared. "A symbol of strength and oceanic dominion."

 

Moments later, the goddess Athena appeared, graceful and wise. She too spoke to Cecrops: "Name this city after me, and it shall become a beacon of wisdom and beauty. Arts, knowledge, and peace will flourish here." Then, she raised her spear and struck the same rock. From the crack grew an olive tree—strong, fruitful, and everlasting."This is my gift to your people," she said. "A tree that offers food, oil, and wood. A symbol of peace and prosperity."

 

King Cecrops stood in awe, torn between the two divine gifts. To help him decide, the gods gathered, along with the people of the city. They looked at the sea spring, powerful but harsh, and then at the olive tree, humble yet full of promise.

 

They chose the olive tree...

And so, in honor of Athena’s gift, the city was named…

 

Athens.