Manes, Lares, and Lemures. © Jason R. Abdale (August 21, 2021) Do you believe in ghosts? The ancient Romans certainly did. The spirits of the Undead were a real concern and a real fear for the ancient Romans. Therefore, it… Read More ›
Parentalia
February 22 – The Caristia: The Ancient Roman Family Thanksgiving Feast
Fresco from the House of Julia Felix in Pompeii, Italy. February 22 was the ancient Roman holiday called the Caristia, and it was one of the biggest party days in the Roman calendar. Essentially it was Thanksgiving and Christmas put… Read More ›
February 21 – Rest in Peace: The Feralia Festival of the Dead
Classical Sunset. © Jason R. Abdale (August 20, 2021) The ancient Romans had several days in their calendar dedicated to honoring the dead. Among these was a period that lasted from February 13 to 21 which was known as the… Read More ›
February 13 – Rest in Peace: The Parentalia Festival of the Dead
Gone But Not Forgotten, painted by John Willian Waterhouse (1873). The Parentalia was a private remembrance day for the family’s deceased. The festival, for lack of a better word, lasted from February 13 to 21. During these days, all of… Read More ›
DINOSAURS AND BARBARIANS 