Digital Maps of the Ancient World

Carmentalia

The Carmentalia was a Roman festival celebrated in honor of Carmenta, the goddess associated with childbirth, prophecy, and the future. The festival was held on January 11th and 15th, and was primarily observed by women.

Date: 11th & 15th January
Deity: Carmenta
Observances: Sacrifices of spelt cakes, religious readings and a public sacrifice

Carmenta was believed to have the power to look both back into the past and forward into the future, and she was often invoked under the epithets of Postvorta and Antevorta. Her temple was located on the Capitoline Hill, one of the most sacred sites in Rome.

The Carmentalia likely involved various rituals and ceremonies, though specific details are scarce. It may have included sacrifices, offerings, and prayers to Carmenta, seeking her blessings for women and their families.