Diana of Ephesus is Goddess of the Amazons. Ancient worship focused on the nature goddesses Isis -- Ishtar -- Inanna and called Her Queen of Heaven. By Roman times she is called Diana; yet at Ephesus in Anatolia, Her worship was most profound under the names Mother of Animals.

Many-Breasted Artemis. Columnar and wearing a unique ritual garment adorned with animals, her crown and staring gaze incorporates Astarte, while Her moon disc and horned beasts evoke Diana. Her temple, which was built by Amazons (undoubtedly matrilineal priestesses), was one of the wonders of the ancient world and a goal of devout pilgrimage. In AD 380 her shrine was rededicated to Mary, whose old age and death was placed at Ephesus by Church legend. Note the similarity of posture, palms bestowing blessing, with countless images of Mary.

Sand-colored Gypsumstone statue.