Digital Maps of the Ancient World

Robigalia

The Robigalia was a festival celebrated on 25th April in honor of Robigus, the god of agricultural disease. The festival was intended to protect grain fields from disease and ensure a bountiful harvest.

A section of the Fasti Praenestini, with the entry of the Robigalia at bottom right (“ROB”). (c) Marie-Lan Nguyen

Date: 25th April
Deity: Robigus
Observances: Sacrifice of a puppy, chariot races

The Robigalia was held at the boundary of the Ager Romanus, the territory of ancient Rome. The festival included a sacrificial offering of a puppy and chariot races.

The sacrifice of the puppy was believed to appease Robigus and protect the crops from disease. The puppy’s red coat was thought to be symbolic of the reddish-brown color of wheat rust, a disease that could harm crops.

The Robigalia was one of several agricultural festivals held in April. These festivals were a time for Romans to pray for good harvests and express their gratitude to the gods for their blessings.