Regifugium
The Regifugium, or “Flight of the King,” was an annual religious festival celebrated on 24th February to commemorate the expulsion of Tarquinius Superbus, the last king of Rome, in 510 BC.
Date: 24th February
Observances: Sacrifice
The festival involved the Rex Sacrorum, a priest who served as a substitute for the former king. On the Regifugium, the Rex Sacrorum would offer a public sacrifice in the Comitia, the assembly of the people. After the sacrifice, he would quickly leave the Comitia, reenacting the flight of Tarquinius.
The Regifugium was a significant event in the Roman calendar, marking the transition from the monarchy to the republic. The festival’s rituals served as a reminder of the dangers of tyranny and the importance of maintaining a democratic form of government.
Digital Maps of the Ancient World 