This Kapow pupil video is part of the Kapow History scheme of work. The Ancient Greeks believed in many gods and goddesses, each with different powers and personalities. They thought the gods behaved like humans, sometimes falling in love or becoming angry, and prayed to them for help and protection. If the gods were unhappy, the Greeks believed they could punish them. Temples were built to honour the gods, each one devoted to a single deity, and people brought offerings to them. Festivals and sporting events were held in their honour, with sacred sites found across Greece.

One of the most important gods was Zeus, the king of the skies. According to legend, Zeus escaped from his father Cronus, who feared being overthrown by his children. Raised in Crete by nymphs, Zeus returned to free his siblings, defeated the Titans, and shared the world with his brothers Poseidon and Hades. Twelve major gods, known as the Olympians, lived on Mount Olympus, the tallest mountain in Greece, hidden from view by clouds. Among them was Athena, goddess of battle and wisdom, who became the protector of Athens after gifting the olive tree to its people. To honour her, they built the Parthenon, a magnificent temple still standing today.

The video is designed to be shown to pupils as part of History, Upper key stage 2, Year 5, What is the legacy of the ancient Greek civilisation? Lesson 2: Who lived on Mount Olympus?