Snakes
Athena was also associated with snakes. Athena was often shown with snakes on the edges of her clothing, or around her feet in later sculptures.
This symbol played into her role in the slaying of the Gorgon Medusa, who had snakes for hair. The Gorgon’s head was another prominent symbol of Athena, who was said to have been given it by Perseus after helping him slay the monster.
She often wore the Gorgoneion on her shield, reflecting a common Greek practice of painting protective symbols on shields. Athena’s military equipment, including the shield and the wearing of a helmet, are some of her most identifiable and unique attributes.
All of Athena’s symbols seem to have their roots in older religions. It is probable that each of these ancient traditions influenced the development of the Greek Athena.
The Near Eastern warrior goddess, Minoan snake figure, and even the prehistoric bird goddess gradually combined and evolved into the recognizable Athenian goddess. Athena’s many attributes and symbols give insight into her ancient origins.