Kourotrophos

Kourotrophos (Greek: κουροτρόφος, "child nurturer") is the name that was given in ancient Greece to gods and goddesses whose properties included their ability to protect young people. Such gods called by this adjective included Athena, Apollo, Hermes, Hecate, Aphrodite, Artemis, etc., and were usually depicted holding a baby in their arms.^[1]

Also, Kourotrophos was a secondary deity of the city of Athens, who was not among the twelve known gods of Olympus. She appeared as the protector of children and young people and a sanctuary built on her name in honor of the cult, the so-called Kourotropheion.^[1] Kourotrophos was an major figure of cult, appearing in sacrifice groups connected with fertility and child care.^[2]

References

1. Lampsas Giannis, Dictionary of the Ancient World (Lexiko tou Archaiou Kosmou), Vol. III, Athens, Domi Publications, 1984, p. 247.
2. Oxford Reference.