World Mythology › Italy and Western Europe › Gods

FORTUNA

Roman Goddess of Chance and Good Luck

You'll be lucky! She wears a blindfold to make sure she's completely random and impartial. Her symbol is the Wheel of Fortune. Give it a spin and see if you win!

When the Romans were looking for a Good Luck Goddess, they took a chance on the Greek TYCHE, who's function was to bring random good luck. With a fresh supply of dice and a new name, the revamped FORTUNA became extremely popular among the Roman betting community.

FORTUNA's name actually means 'Lot Distributor' — because at her temple there was lots on offer. Card games, fruit machines, roulette...

And between games, visitors would draw the lots and priests would use them to interpret the future. So, despite what you might have heard, gambling is really quite respectable. It was good enough for Caesar in his Palace, wasn't it?

As in ancient times, FORTUNA is still very popular in the big city, where she has temples, casinos and the Wheel Of Fortuna television game show. The Horn of Plenty could be yours! Unlimited cornucopias to be won! Place your bets and take a chance now! Just make sure the Odds and the Gods are on your side.

Article last updated on 12 January 2013
Authors: Peter J Allen and Chas Saunders
References: Coming soon.

COPYRIGHT © 1999-2013. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Please mention Godchecker.com when praying to deities.

Godchecker's article on Fortuna is based on material from ancient texts, original references and our own research. We strive for accuracy and update regularly with new information. If you spot a mistake please contact us and we'll try to fix it.

Join the Godchecker mailing list

Stay in the loop with Godchecker updates. You can unsubscribe at any time.

We are often asked about merchandise. Can we supply the latest Fortuna graphic novel, book or comic? Not to mention role-playing games (RPG), video games, Fortuna movies on DVD, BluRay and so on. To purchase such goodies we suggest you search for a dedicated mythology-based online store - or try Amazon, Ebay or other reputable websites. We offer a wide range of our own merchandise in our online GodShop, but we don't currently sell third party items. Yet!

Visitors often email us asking about Fortuna statues, sculptures or carved figurines of Fortuna. We regret we cannot assist with identifying such items.

PRESS or MEDIA enquiries? Contact us here.

REPRODUCTION REQUESTS. This site is copyright and all rights are reserved. If you wish to use our material in your essay, book, article or project, please consult our permissions information page.

SUPPORT THE GODS. Found this site useful? Consider donating a few pennies to the Godchecker Temple Roof Fund.

The Gods told us to do it.