Celtic Gods: The Gaulish God, Graius (The Terrible)

Graius
A Gaulish God: The Terrible

Graius is a Gaulish god known from inscriptions found in the Savoie region of France where he is equated with the Roman Demigod, Hercules. He is an example of the giant club-weilding god known throughout the Celtic world.



Synonyms:
Gaul: The Terrible

Graius is known from inscriptions at Aime and Salins-les-Thermes, both in Savoie, France. In both instances he is equated by interpretato Romana with Heracles. The Aime inscription also associates him with Jupiter, Juno, Minerva, the sun and the moon.

The equation of Heracles with native Celtic deities can be attested from both Gaul and insular Brythonic examples. In Gaul, Heracles is most often equated with Ogmios, the deity of eloquence and poetry. Insular examples seem to show nude club-bearing, torc-wearing giants whose attributes are unknown. Graius undoubtedly falls somewhere in these traditions; though his precise attributes remain unknown.

Graius' name can be interpreted as meaning 'The Terrible' from the Old Cymric graen (terror) [cf the Irish goddess Graínne whose name has been interpreted as meaning 'she who inspires terror']. If this etymology is correct then this would make Graius a deity of the gigantic club-wielding type.



Couldn't find what you were looking for? Search the web:



stefan and zogo small One Million People Campaign
If you can spare $1 then help support this site and change someone's life forever? Learn how and why on the One Million People campaign page. Or donate $10 and get my Guide to Spices or The Recipes of Africa eBooks as a gift for your donation!