Hercle

The Etruscan ‘Hercle’ (Heracles in Greek, Hercules in Latin), son of Zeus and Alcmene, was the heroic figure par excellence in ancient times (the twelve labours of Hercules), but at the same time he was the only human figure near to Olympus since he was a demi-god. In the Italic world, and especially in Etruscan civilisation, evidence is found of Herculean characteristics not linked only to heroism, war and bravery, but also in connection with the world of sheep-raising. Recent research suggests that Hercules was the protector of shepherds, and he also appears as a cult figure linked to springs.