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Saturnalia is an ancient Roman festival and holiday in honour of the god Saturn, held on 17 December of the Julian calendar and later expanded with festivities through 19 December. By the 1st century B.C., the celebration had been extended through 23 December, for a total of seven days of festivities. [1]
The ancient festival of Saturnalia was an annual celebration that turned the structured Roman society upside down, introducing a period of mirth and liberty that blurred the lines between master and servant, rich and poor.
Saturnalia was an ancient Roman pagan festival honoring the agricultural god Saturn, and it was held in mid-December near the winter solstice. The traditions associated with Saturnalia, such as wreaths, feasting, and gift-giving, have influenced modern Christmas celebrations.
18 paź 2024 · Saturnalia, the most popular of Roman festivals. Dedicated to the Roman god Saturn, the festival’s influence continues to be felt throughout the Western world.
The Roman state cancelled executions and refrained from declaring war during the festival. Pagan Roman authorities tried to curtail Saturnalia; Emperor Caligula (AD 12-41) sought to restrict it to five days, with little success. Emperor Domitian (AD 51-96) may have changed Saturnalia’s date to December 25th in an attempt to assert his authority.
5 gru 2017 · Saturnalia, an ancient Roman festival honoring the agricultural god Saturn, occurred in mid‑December. Saturnalia rituals later became Christmas traditions.
1 gru 2020 · The Romans celebrated a festive season, but not with Christmas as we know it. Learn about Saturnalia and why it was called the 'festival of misrule'
