In Greek mythology, Athena the goddess of wisdom among a multitude of other traits, was described as bright-eyed or with gleaming eyes and frequently depicted in the company of an owl, the “owl of Athena”. By association, the owl came to represent Athena as a bird goddess, Athena’s priestesses, and wisdom itself.

A specific species of owl, the Little Owl (Athene noctua), was prevalent when Athena’s temple was built and was known to nest in her temple. Folklore says that seeing an owl in Athena’s temple would bring the worshipper good luck.

This top down sock pattern uses Bavarian twisted stitches, simple cables, and lace to portray Athena’s owls in her temple. For this pattern, I recommend using solid or low contrast yarn to showcase the intricate stitch work, but any color way of your choice will work. Twisted stitch work can also limit the stretchiness of the finished sock, so either use a yarn that is springy, use larger needles, or size up. Directions are provided for 4 adult women’s sock sizes, extra small, small, medium, and large, equivalent to women’s shoe sizes US 6-6.5 (EU 36-37), US 7-7.5 (EU 37.5-38), US 8-8.5 (EU 38.5-39), and US 9-9.5 (EU 40-41). Pattern includes directions for both a long and short leg. Directions include a fitted heel and simple arch shaping. Stitch pattern included only as chart.