Ancient Greek mythology is a rich collection of stories and legends about gods, heroes, and the creation of the world. Central to Greek mythology are the **Olympian gods**, such as **Zeus**, the king of the gods, **Hera**, his wife, **Poseidon**, the god of the sea, and **Athena**, the goddess of wisdom. Myths explained natural phenomena, human experiences, and cultural values. Heroes like **Heracles**, **Achilles**, and **Odysseus** embarked on epic adventures, embodying virtues like bravery and strength. These myths shaped Greek religion, art, and literature, influencing later civilizations and continuing to inspire modern storytelling and culture.