In anatomy, the atlas (C1) is the most superior (first) cervical vertebra
of the spine and is located in the neck.
The bone is named for Atlas of Greek mythology, for just as Atlas bore the
weight of the heavens, the first cervical vertebra supports the head. However,
the term atlas was first used by the ancient Romans for the seventh cervical
vertebra (C7) due to its suitability for supporting burdens. In Greek
mythology, Atlas was condemned to bear the weight of the heavens as punishment
for rebelling against Zeus. Ancient depictions of Atlas show the globe of the
heavens resting at the base of his neck, on C7. Sometime around 1522,
anatomists decided to call the first cervical vertebra the atlas.