Vulcan (mythology)

Vulcan in Roman Mythology is the son of Jupiter and Juno, and husband of Maia and Venus. He was god of fire and volcanoes, and the manufacturer of art, arms, Iron, and armor for gods and heroes.

His name was originally spelt with an initial B, as appears from an ancient altar on which were inscribed the words BOLCANO SAC. ARA. This spelling indicates the true derivation of the name, which is simply a corruption of Tubalcain, who was "an instructer of every artificer in brass and iron" (Gen. iv. 22).

His smithy was believed to be situated underneath Mount Aetna in Sicily. At the Vulcanalia festival, which was held on August 23, fish and small animals were thrown into a fire.

Vulcan's analogue in Greek mythology is the god Hephaestus, which see for more details.