Divalia
The Divalia, also known as the Angeronalia, was a festival celebrated on 21st December in honor of Angerona, a goddess associated with the alleviation of sorrow and pain.
Date: 21st December
Deity: Angerona
Observances: Sacrifices
The festival was marked by sacrifices offered by the priests at the Temple of Voluptas, the goddess of pleasure. The statue of Angerona in the temple depicted her with a finger pressed to her lips, symbolizing the importance of silence and discretion.
In artistic representations, she was often depicted with a bandaged mouth, further emphasizing her connection to silence and the alleviation of suffering.
According to ancient sources, Angerona was believed to relieve men from pain and sorrow. She was also considered a protecting goddess of Rome and the keeper of the city’s sacred name, which was believed to be a secret that must not be revealed to enemies.
Digital Maps of the Ancient World 