Atlas (anatomy)
![](/Images/godic/202412/21/C1_lateral3502.png")
![Structure of the atlas, the first cervical vertebra.](/Images/godic/202412/21/Gray863503.png")
![Median sagittal section through the occipital bone and first three cervical vertebræ, showing ligamentous attachments.](/Images/godic/202412/21/Gray3083503.png")
![The atlas ossifies from 3 centers.](/Images/godic/202412/21/Gray1043503.png")
In anatomy, the atlas (C1) is the most superior (first) cervical vertebra of the spine.
It is named for the Atlas of Greek mythology, because it supports the globe of the head.
The atlas is the topmost vertebra and with the axis forms the joint connecting the skull and spine. The atlas and axis are specialized to allow a greater range of motion than normal vertebrae. They are responsible for the nodding and rotation movements of the head.