Also called Nehalenia.
Their story
Nehalennia was worshipped at the mouth of the Scheldt in the Netherlands, where traders crossing to Britain made vows for a safe journey. More than a hundred and fifty altars to her were found, first at Domburg after a storm in 1647 and then at Colijnsplaat in 1970, when fishermen dragged them from the sea. She is shown seated with a dog and a basket of apples, sometimes resting a foot on a ship's prow.
Best times to give to them
- before a sea crossing
- after a safe return
- the apple harvest
What they like being given
- apples
- bread
- a thank-you written after a safe journey
How to honour them
- Ask for a safe journey before travelling by sea, and thank her when you arrive.
- Keep a basket of apples on your altar in autumn.
How they can help you
- safe travel
- business and trade
- fulfilling promises
Symbols
- the dog
- a basket of apples
- the ship's prow
- the steering oar
Her name and people may be Germanic as much as Celtic.
Sources
- Stuart and Bogaers, Nehalennia: Römische Steindenkmäler aus der Oosterschelde bei Colijnsplaat (2001)
- Green, Dictionary of Celtic Myth and Legend
More Celtic goddesses
- Brigid Keeper of the sacred flame
- The Morrígan Great Queen of battle and prophecy
- Danu Mother of the Tuatha Dé Danann
- Rhiannon The queen on the white horse
- Cerridwen Keeper of the cauldron of inspiration
- Epona Great Mare, protector of horses
- Arianrhod Lady of the silver wheel
- Airmed Keeper of the healing herbs