Apolo was the olympian god of prophecy, oracles, music, song and poetry. Of archery, healing, plague and disease; and the protection of the young. He was depicted as a handsome, beardless youth with long hair and attributes such as a wreath and branch of laurel, bow and quiver of arrows, raven, and lyre.
The lyre is his symbol of power which proclaimed the joy of communion through music, poetry, and dance. He fell in love with the sound the lyre made and became a master of this instrument.
Because of his mastery, Apollo is often depicted in the company of the Muses – the inspirational goddesses of the arts, literature, and science – as well as a frequent performer at the weddings of the gods.
Additionally, as his music was so bewitching, he would play his lyre and sing to deliver people from their pain and suffering. This, combined with his devotion to the art of medicine, is why he is also the Greek god of healing.
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