Digital Maps of the Ancient World

Nonae Caprotiniae

The Nonae Caprotinae was a festival celebrated on 7th July in honor of Juno Caprotina. This festival was associated with the Poplifugia, a festival commemorating a Roman flight from their city during a crisis.

Date: 7th July
Deity: Juno Caprotina
Observances: Games, sacrifice of a goat, feasts

The exact origins of the Nonae Caprotinae are uncertain, but it has been suggested that the festival was established to commemorate a victory over the Latins, which was aided by Tutula, a female slave, who disguised herself as a Roman lady and infiltrated the enemy camp. She managed to deceive the enemy, climb a fig-tree and give the Romans the signal to attack.

The Nonae Caprotinae was a significant event for women, particularly female slaves. The festival included a procession to the fig-tree where Tutula had given the signal for the Romans to attack their enemies. Women would participate in various sports and games, and sacrifices and a festal meal would be offered to Juno Caprotina.