In the ancient Baltic traditions, the Sun Goddess Saule ruled the heavens, riding across the sky in her golden and silver chariot, pulled by twin stallions. (sons of the Sky Father, Dievas)
"Saule, with her two gold horses,
Rides up the stone mountain
Never heated, never weary.
Never resting on the way."
Her festival was held on the Summer Solstice - bonfires were lit, blessings were asked, flower wreaths signifying the sun were made, and a special meal was shared. Celebrants would stay up the entire night before so not to miss her rising.
"The Sun dances over the silver mountain
Silver shoes she hath on her feet. . ."
(Quotes from the "Encyclopaedia of Religion & Ethics", Ed. J. Hastings. Symbol of Saule on display in the National Lithuanian Museum.)
