Tradition: Latvian Mythology
Alternative names: Māre, Mārīte, Mārša, Māršava
Category: Deity, Cow
The Myth
Māra is described as the highest-ranking goddess in Latvian mythology and an ancient Dawn-goddess, previously called Austra.
She is the patroness of feminine duties, including children and cattle, as well as economic activities such as bread-making, money, and markets. She is associated with the land itself, which is called Māras zeme, or “Māra’s land.”
Māra is also called the Mother of Cows (Govu māte). In this role, she is associated with the protection and care of cattle.
Māra is described as the alternate side of Dievs. At death, Māra takes a person’s body, while Dievs takes their soul.
A festival called Māras was held in her honor on August 15.
Sources
“Māra.” Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Accessed August 29, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%81ra