As was common among the Olympian gods, Zeus and Hermes once traveled the world in disguise. They came to a village and knocked on a thousand doors, seeking rest and sustenance, but were turned away each time.
Finally, they arrived at a humble cottage where the elderly couple Baucis and Philemon lived. Though poor, they were content with their lot and grateful to the gods. When the two travelers entered, the couple welcomed them with joyful hospitality. They offered their best seat and promptly began preparing a meal. With great effort, they lit a fire, brought in a fresh cabbage, cut a precious piece of preserved meat, and began cooking. They were even prepared to sacrifice their only goose for the guests, but the visitors intervened to spare it.
The dining bench was makeshift, poor, and patched, but it was their finest. The table was propped up by a brick. The meal was simple: eggs, wine, cottage cheese, and an assortment of freshly picked fruit. Throughout, the old couple served their guests with humble sincerity and eager goodwill.
Deeply moved by this hospitality, the gods revealed their true identities. "We are gods," declared Zeus. "While this wicked neighborhood shall be punished, you shall be spared from misfortune. Come with us."
As Baucis and Philemon followed the gods up a nearby hill, they looked back and saw the entire village submerged beneath a marsh. Amidst the widespread ruin, only their old cottage remained, transformed into a magnificent temple. At their wish, they were appointed guardians of Zeus's sacred shrine. When their mortal lives ended, they were turned into an ash tree and a linden tree, standing side by side before the temple.