Hermes was the son of Zeus and Maia. He was the god of trading, wrestling and other gymnastic exercises.

He was the messenger of Zeus, and wore a winged cap and winged shoes. He held a rod with two serpents, called the caduceus.

Hermes invented the lyre, using a tortoise shell. He made holes in the opposite edges of it, and drew cords of linen through them. It had nine strings, in honour of the nine Muses.

Hermes gave the lyre to Apollon, and was given the caduceus.

In Roman times Hermes was called Mercury.