In Greek mythology, Hippolyta, whose belt Hercules sought, was queen of the Amazons.
Hippolyta was the legendary ruler of the Amazons, a nation of warrior women. Eurystheus’ daughter, Admete, wanted Hippolyta’s girdle, or belt, and Hercules was ordered to obtain it during his ninth labor.
In one influential version, Hippolyta initially welcomed Hercules and agreed to give him the belt. Hera then spread a rumor that Hercules intended to abduct the queen, prompting the Amazons to attack. Hercules killed Hippolyta during the confusion and escaped with the girdle. Other traditions tell the encounter differently, including versions in which Hercules captures or marries the queen.
The story is not the same as the later legend of Theseus and Hippolyta, although the two traditions sometimes overlap in ancient and later sources. The belt itself is generally described as a symbol of Hippolyta’s authority.