Quinquatria
The Quinquatria was a festival dedicated to Minerva, the goddess of wisdom, warfare, and crafts. It was celebrated 19th-23rd March, and its name derived from the Latin word “quinqu,” meaning five, as it was held on the fifth day after the Ides of March.
Date: 19th-23rd March
Deity: Minerva
Observances: Gladiatorial contests
The Quinquatria was originally a one-day festival, but during the time of Caesar, it was extended to five days. The first day was the main day of celebration, while the following four days featured gladiatorial contests.
The festival was said to commemorate the birthday of Minerva, and it was also associated with the consecration of her temple on the Aventine Hill. On the fifth day of the Quinquatria, the trumpets used in sacred rites were purified. This practice was originally a separate festival called the Tubilustrium, but it became part of the Quinquatria when the festival was extended.
Emperor Domitian established a collegium to oversee the Quinquatria, which included shows of wild beasts, theatrical performances, and contests for orators and poets. This expanded celebration was held annually at Domitian’s Alban villa, located at the foot of the Alban Hills.
Digital Maps of the Ancient World 