The Nymphs consist of a special group of deities in the Greek pantheon. Their cult dates back to prehistoric times. Exclusively female, they incarnate the elements of nature and are symbols of fertility and prosperity. They are not immortal like other gods, but they are imbued with a semi–divine essence that allows them to live a great number of years as they feed on ambrosia. Found in groups in the countryside, they accompany greater gods such as Hermes, Apollo and Artemis. They are usually presented to sing and dance around lakes and rivers or in forests and mountains.