Mares of Diomedes

A metope featuring Herakles with one of the mares

The Mares of Diomedes were a herd of flesh-eating horses of King Diomedes of Thrace in Greek mythology.

History

According to the story, King Diomedes fed his horses human flesh, driving them mad. Having learned of the beasts, King Eurystheas of Mycenae tasked his cousin Herakles to bring the horses to him as the eight of his labours during Herakles' twelve year servitude. Helped by Abderos, Herakles rounded up the beasts, and left Abderos to guard them while Herakles himself hunted down Diomedes. Before Herakles returned, the horses slew and ate Abderos. In return, Herakles fed Diomedes to his horses, and then took the mares to Eurystheas, who dedicated them to the Greek goddess Hera.

Gallery

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  Concept art featuring one of the mares among other legendary animals

Appearances

• Assassin's Creed: Odyssey (artwork only)
• Discovery Tour: Ancient Greece (mentioned only)