The Role of Janus: A Symbol of Change and Transformation Janus, the ancient Roman god, epitomizes the spirit of transformations, transitions, and the relentless flow of time. Known as the Gatekeeper, he is the overseer of the dividing lines marking the end of one era and the start of another, heralding both fresh chapters and…
Roman Religion: A Study of Beliefs and Practices Roman religion encompassed the beliefs and rituals followed by those on the Italian peninsula from ancient times up until the rise of Christianity in the 4th century CE, a time referred to as Classical Antiquity. Cicero, the renowned orator and statesman, remarked that the Romans stood out…
In the realm of Roman mythology, Vulcan, also referred to as Vulcanus, stands as the god of fire, metalworking, and craftsmanship. He is the Roman equivalent of the Greek deity Hephaestus. Often portrayed as a master blacksmith and artisan, Vulcan is celebrated for his skill in forging an array of metal creations, including robust weapons…
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Welcome to another edition of Deities of Good Fortune, where we have previously explored figures like St. Anthony, Ekeko, Lakshmi, Mami Wata, and the Seven Lucky Gods. Today, we turn our focus back to ancient Rome to discuss the Roman Goddess Fortuna. It is essential to acknowledge the significant influence of luck and fate on…
Neptune: A Majestic Roman Depiction This impressive sculpture, crafted from veined marble around 135 AD, showcases Neptune, the Roman deity governing seas and freshwater bodies. The statue, exceeding typical human size, stands robustly supported by a dolphin—an emblem of the god. Notably, Neptune’s left arm holds a trident, a symbol representing his dominion over the…
Pomona, revered as the ancient Roman goddess of fruit trees and orchards, owes her name to the Latin term ‘pomum’, which translates to fruit or orchard-grown fruit. Unlike many Roman deities, Pomona stands out as an exclusively Roman figure, with no direct equivalents in Greek mythology, although comparisons can be drawn with Demeter, the Greek…
Roman religion, also recognized as Roman mythology, refers to the spiritual beliefs and practices of the peoples of the Italian peninsula from ancient times until Christianity gained prominence in the 4th century CE, a historical phase termed Classical antiquity. Nature and Significance According to Cicero, an acclaimed Roman orator and politician, the Romans stood out…
Roman religion, also referred to as Roman mythology, encompasses the beliefs and customs of the inhabitants of the Italian peninsula dating from ancient times until the rise of Christianity in the 4th century CE, a period often identified as Classical antiquity. Nature and Importance According to Cicero, a renowned orator and politician, the Romans distinguished…
In the realm of ancient Roman mythology, Pluto emerged as the deity governing the Underworld, presiding over the domain of the deceased. Often referred to as Dis Pater or Orcus, Pluto was the Roman equivalent of the Greek god Hades. He was portrayed as a serious and somber figure, emblematic of death and the afterlife.…