Danu (also called Dana) is the oldest of the ancient gods and goddesses and is considered the head female goddess and mother-goddess. She is the mother of the beings of the Otherworld, Tuatha De Danaan, which translates to “the people of the goddess Danu.”
Deities throughout the Celtic world, and the world at large,
are often associated with a particular characteristic or object. Danu is
associated with fertility and rivers. The worship of Danu is said to have
started in eastern Europe, which, as we will see, is why she has rivers across
Europe named after her.
Like many Celtic deities, Danu takes the form of 3 women
simultaneously, each carrying a different object. As a goddess, she is associated
with nature and its spiritual essence. She is depicted as a beautiful and
mature woman and is known as a lover and a giver. Her skills lie in being an artist,
a creative, and a crafter. In Wales, Danu is referred to as Don. Don gave birth
to other deities whose names were derived from the names of lakes and rivers.
Throughout Celtic mythology, she is known for recognizing
potential. She helped some gods after they were defeated in battle and raised
them up to be better and stronger than before. She saw what they could achieve
and helped them do so.
Danu’s influence can still be seen throughout the world
today. As mentioned before, Danu is closely associated with rivers, and this
association has led to rivers throughout Europe taking her name. The Danube
River, which is the second longest river in Europe, is supposedly named after
her. The Don and the Dnieper Rivers were also named after her. In pop culture,
there are references to her in the Sanctuary TV show and the Slaine comic
series. Danu, an Irish folk band, is also named after her.
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