The Lares, revered spirits of the deceased in ancient Roman culture, held a pivotal role in domestic worship. Their observance originated from the practice of interring ancestors within homes—a tradition that continued until disallowed by the Twelve Tables. Each household was assigned a lar familiaris, a protective spirit who safeguarded the family’s lineage. This figure,…
Mithras and Sol: A Glimpse into Ancient Cults Overview of the Cult Image The relief featuring Mithras and Sol serves as a captivating depiction of the earth’s regeneration associated with the celestial sun god, Sol. This artistic piece encapsulates the moment of a shared meal between the two deities, making it a significant ornament for…
Hera, known as Juno in Roman mythology, stands as the wife of Zeus and commands her stature as the queen among the pantheon of ancient Greek deities. She embodies the ideal of womanhood, acting as the goddess of marriage, family, and a guardian for women during childbirth. Although fiercely loyal to Zeus, Hera is infamous…