The brightest stars are Spica (α Vir), Zavijah (β Vir), Porrima (γ Vir), Auva (δ Vir) and Vindemiatrix (ε Vir). Other fainter stars which were also given a name are Heze (ζ Vir), Zaniah (η Vir), Syrma (ι Vir) and Rijl al Awwa (μ Vir).
Because of the presence of a galaxy cluster within its borders, this constellation is especially rich in galaxies. Some examples are M49 (elliptical), M58 (spiral), M59 (elliptical), M60 (elliptical), M61 (spiral), M84 (elliptical), M86 (elliptical), M87 (elliptical and a famous radiosource), M90 (spiral), M104 (elliptical, also called the Sombrero Galaxy).
On the Zodiac, Virgo lies between Leo to the west and the Libra to the east.
In some cosmologies, Virgo is associated with the classical element Earth, and thus called an Earth Sign (with Taurus and Capricorn). Its polar opposite is Pisces.
According to Greek Mythology, the constellation depicts Astraea?, the virgin daughter of the god Zeus and the goddess Themis?. Astraea was known as the goddess of justice, hence the scales of justice Libra nearby. Astraea supposedly ruled the world at one point with her wise ways, unfortunately mankind became so callous that she returned to skies in disgust.
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