Nerthus is a goddess from ancient Germanic mythology, often associated with fertility and the earth. She is mentioned in the writings of the Roman historian Tacitus, who described her as a deity worshipped by various tribes in northern Europe. Nerthus is believed to represent the earth's nurturing qualities and the cycle of life. In rituals dedicated to Nerthus, a sacred chariot was used, which was pulled by cows and taken to a holy grove. This practice symbolized her connection to nature and the agricultural cycle. The worship of Nerthus reflects the importance of fertility and the land in the lives of the Germanic tribes.