The next day, Rhea wrapped a large stone in swaddling clothes, and then handed it to Cronus, who, convinced that he was receiving his son, immediately swallowed it. It had been prophesied that one of Cronus’ sons would take his throne, and in an attempt to thwart that, Cronus swallowed all the children that Rhea gave birth to.īefore the birth of the youngest child, Rhea turned to Uranus and Gaia for advice on how to save him.Īccording to their instructions, she went to Crete, and as soon as she gave birth to Zeus, she hid him in a cave. Zeus was the youngest son of the king of the Titans, Cronus, and his wife, Rhea.