Ludi Piscatorii

The Ludi Piscatorii were games celebrated on 7th June, starting in the 3rd c. BC, in honor of Father Tiber, the god of the Tiber River. The festival was primarily observed by fishermen and was overseen by the Praetor, a Roman magistrate.

Mosaic of Fishermen, 3rd-4th c. AD, from Utica. British Museum. (c)  Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin

Date: 7th June
Deity: Father Tiber
Observances: Sacrifice of fish, games

During the Ludi Piscatorii, fishermen would catch fish and then sacrifice them by fire at the Temple of Vulcan, the god of fire and metalworking. This ritual was a way to express gratitude to Father Tiber for providing a bountiful supply of fish and to ensure continued success in fishing.