Consualia
The Consualia were two festivals celebrated in honor of Consus, a tutelary deity associated with the harvest and stored grain. The first Consualia was held on 21st August, while the second was held on 15th December, in connection with grain storage.
Date: 21st August and 15th December
Deity: Consus
Observances: Games and horses, mules and asses were adorned with garlands
The shrine of Consus was located underground and was only uncovered for these festivals. Mars, the god of war, was also honored during the Consualia as a protector of the harvest. The Lares, the household gods, were also celebrated.
During the Consualia, horses, mules, and asses were exempted from labor and adorned with garlands and flowers. Chariot races were held in the Circus Maximus, including an unusual race featuring chariots pulled by mules.
The Consualia were believed to have been founded by Romulus as a way to gather his Sabine neighbors. When the community was assembled and in a state of drunken festivity, Romulus’s men abducted the daughters of the Sabines to become their brides. The festivals were a time for celebration and social interaction, and they played a significant role in Roman culture.
The Consualia were followed by the Opiconsivia and the Opalia, festivals honoring Ops, a goddess related to Consus. These festivals were part of a series of events celebrating the harvest and ensuring the well-being of the community.
Digital Maps of the Ancient World 