Anahita is the goddess of waters, fertility, and war in Iranian mythology. In the Avesta she is called “Strong, Unstained, Ardvi Sura Anahita.” She is the protector of all rivers, lakes, and springs. She is depicted with a war chariot pulled by four white horses.
Anahita possesses the qualities of both a mother goddess and a warrior goddess — besides fertility and fecundity, she grants strength to heroes. Persian emperors built temples in her name. She is compared to the Greek Artemis and Roman Diana. In Kurdish folklore, sacred spirits at water sources are linked to the Anahita tradition.
