The oracle

In the very old days, Aegeus reigned in Athens. He was a worthy and just king, but he was sad because he had no child of his own to leave on his throne. So he went to the oracle of Delphi and asked what he should do. "Marry the queen-girl of Troizina, Aithra, but do not bring her with you to Athens."

Aegeus - Aithra Wedding

That's what Pythia told him and Aegeus did so. He went by ship to Troizina, to see his friend, the wise king Pittheus. There he met Aithra and was dazzled by her beauty, modesty and intelligence. So he asked her to marry him. Aithra accepted, even though the oracle said she should not follow her husband to Athens.

Aegeas - Aithra

During the short time they lived together in Troizina, Aegeas took Aithra one day and they went for a walk in the countryside. He drew his sword and dug a pit. He put in his sandals and his sword and a large stone rolled over it. Then he said to Aithra:

Under the rock

So in one part of the road, there was a huge stone. He lifted it up and put a sword and a pair of sandals underneath. And he said to her:

-If you give birth to a boy and he becomes an old man, bring him here. And if he lifts the stone, take what lies beneath and come to Athens to find me. In a short time Aithra gave birth to a strong boy.

The upbringing of Theseus

Aithra gave birth to a boy and named him Theseus. She raised him as his father wanted, and he became a modest, strong and courageous child. And because Theseus was as beautiful as a little god, and because they did not know his father, everyone said he was the child of Poseidon.

Meeting with Hercules

Theseus was seven years old when Hercules once passed by his house. Hercules left the polisher at the door and entered the house. Theseus left the door open and went into the house.

Theseus and the Nemean Lion's skin 

So when they came to the door, the other children were frightened when they saw the Nemean Lion's skin. Theseus, however, grabbed an axe and rushed to strike, for he thought it was a living lion.

Theseus grows up

When Theseus was eighteen years old, he was a smart and strong lad. His mother knew then that it was time to reveal to him his father's secret command. They went to the place where the stone was and she told him the touching story. Theseus easily picked up the stone and put on his father's sandals and royal sword. His mother was proud of him and he was proud himself. He returned to the palace and began to prepare for the journey.