Medusa head. In Greek mythology, Medusa was one of three Gorgon sisters. Medusa began life as a beautiful mortal, who bragged of being more attractive than the goddess Athena. One day, while in Athena's temple, Medusa was ravished by the sea god Neptune. In revenge, Athena turned Medusa into a Gorgon. Her long, silky hair was transformed into snakes and she was no longer able to look at the men who came to court her, as they would turn to stone if they looked into her eyes. Medusa was eventually killed by Perseus with help from Athena and Hermes. Gorgons were a popular image in Greek mythology, appearing in the earliest of written records of Ancient Greek religious beliefs such as those of Homer, which may date to as early as 1194-1184 BC. Because of their legendary and powerful gaze that could turn one to stone, images of the Gorgons were put upon objects and buildings for protection.