Portugal is celebrating its rich mythological heritage with the release of a new €5 collector coin featuring the legendary hero Ulysses. The coin, designed by artist Gonçalo Viana, will be distributed throughout the country starting Wednesday.
Key Takeaways
- The Bank of Portugal has issued a €5 collector coin depicting Ulysses.
- The coin is designed by artist Gonçalo Viana and is only valid in Portugal.
- Distribution will occur through credit institutions, Banco de Portugal’s cash offices, and National Printing House shops.
- Ulysses is linked to Lisbon through mythological tales.
A Tribute to Ulysses
The Bank of Portugal has chosen to honor Ulysses, the mythical founder of Lisbon, with a new €5 collector coin. This initiative pays homage to the legendary hero, also known by his Greek name, Odysseus, who is best known for his role in Homer’s epic poems, the Odyssey and the Iliad. The coin’s design, created by artist Gonçalo Viana, captures significant moments from Ulysses’ mythological journey.
Coin Design Details
The front side of the coin features Ulysses tied to a ship’s mast, a scene from the Odyssey where he asks his crew to bind him so he can hear the sirens’ songs without succumbing to their lure. Surrounding Ulysses are seven sirens with bird-like bodies, wings, and claws extended, reaching out towards him. The Portuguese coat of arms is also depicted next to the hero.
On the reverse side, Ulysses is shown armed with a bow and arrow, encircled by a serpent forming seven curves, symbolizing the seven hills of Lisbon. This imagery references folklore suggesting that Ulysses was loved by the Queen of Ophiussa, whose arms turned into serpents as she chased him to the sea when he tried to leave her kingdom. These serpents are said to have become the hills of Lisbon.
Distribution and Availability
The €5 coin will be available to the public through various channels, including credit institutions, Banco de Portugal’s cash offices, and shops of the National Printing House. While the coin has a face value of €5, it is only valid within Portugal.
Ulysses and Lisbon
The choice of Ulysses for this coin is rooted in the mythological connection between the hero and the city of Lisbon. Although historians have found no concrete evidence of Ulysses’ existence, the tales of his adventures have left a lasting impact on the cultural and historical narrative of Lisbon. According to legend, Ulysses founded the city during his journey home from the Trojan War.
This new coin not only celebrates a legendary figure but also highlights the rich tapestry of myths and stories that form an integral part of Portugal’s cultural heritage.
