Final answer:
In ancient mythological depictions, landmarks on the way to Hades' kingdom included the river Styx, Charon the ferryman, gateways and walls surrounding the abode of Hades, the Elysian Fields, and Tartarus with the river Phlegethon. Artistic representations like Hades abducting Persephone conveyed the atmosphere of the underworld.
Step-by-step explanation:
When traveling to Hades' kingdom in ancient mythological depictions, one would encounter various symbolic and physical landmarks. The journey typically would start at the river Styx, where the ferryman Charon transports the souls of the dead. Once across, you would be at the threshold of Hades, marked by gateways and walls, often described as having threefold constructions. Hades' realm is divided into different compartments.
Travelers may see the Elysian Fields, reserved for heroes and righteous souls, and Tartarus, the deepest part, for the punishment of the wicked, featuring the river Phlegethon and an iron tower. The abode of Hades could sometimes reflect contemporary architecture of the time, such as Roman villas, with elaborate gates and thresholds.
In artistic depictions, such as the wall painting of Hades abducting Persephone found at Vergina, strong visual elements are used to convey the dramatic and somber atmosphere of the underworld. Such images were colored by the cultural and religious beliefs of the ancient Greeks and Romans, blending Hesiodic, Orphic, and Homeric traditions.