In Roman mythology, Neptune was the god of water, both freshwater and the oceans and all the life contained within. Roman mythology was heavily influenced by earlier Greek mythology, indeed many gods were revered by both civilizations, albeit under different names. Neptune’s Greek equivalent was Poseidon. Neptunalia, the festival honouring Neptune was celebrated on the 23^rd of July each year. Like other mythological figures, Neptune has little influence today, although a passenger on a cruise ship crossing the equator for the first time (known as a “Pollywog”) might be summoned before King Neptune for an initiation ceremony (usually just an excuse for a good party!).

Shown in Western Slate.