Fan of folklore? These baby names inspired by mythology are beautiful

Many people take inspiration for ancestral names when they are choosing a moniker for their little one. 

So why not take that inspiration a bit further back? 

Names rooted in the past can be gorgeous and have interesting origins – names influenced by ancient mythology from Greece, Rome, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and Armenia.

So let's have a look at some of the more unusual names and see if there are any take garb your attention…

1. Ara

This one is from Armenian mythology, as the name of a handsome king who was the object of a rival queen's affections.

2. Tristan

Celtic legend says that Tristan was a dragon slayer and a knight of the Round Table.

3.  Finn

This is the name of the greatest hero of Irish mythology, Finn MacCool (aka Fionn mac Cuumhaill), who was a warrior with mystical supernatural powers.

4. Calliope

Being named after a muse of epic poetry isn't bad, is it? It also means "beautiful voice." 

5.  Angus

Inspired by Aengus, a Celtic god of love, youth, and poetic inspiration. It means "one strength."

6. Gaia

This one is a Greek mythological earth goddess and universal mother.

7. Apollo

Apollo is the Greek god of light and twin of Artemis. 

8. Ajax (or Aias)

This one is a mythological Greek hero and the son of King Telamon and Periboea.

9. Athena

Athena is the goddess of wisdom, skill, and warfare – making it a strong choice for a little girl. 

10. Hera

Meaning "protectress", it is inspired by the queen of the Greek gods.

11. Evander

This was a boy who appeared in Greek and Roman mythology as a wise Arcadian hero who founded the city in Italy that preceded Rome and appeared in Virgil's Aeneid.

12. Castor

Castor is the name of one of the twins who makes up the constellation of Gemini in Greek mythology.