Sementivae
The Sementivae was a festival dedicated to the gods of agriculture, Ceres and Terra. This festival was held in the seed-time, a period when farmers were preparing their fields for planting.
Date: 24th-26th January and 2nd February
Deity: Ceres and Terra
The Sementivae was a type of feriae conceptivae, meaning its date was determined annually by the magistrates or priests. The festival was divided into two parts: a celebration in honor of Terra, the Earth goddess, and a subsequent celebration honoring Ceres, the goddess of agriculture.
The festival in honor of Terra took place from 24th-26th January, while the festival honoring Ceres was held the following week, starting on 2nd February. The Sementina dies, a one-day event dedicated to praying for a good harvest, was also observed during this time. In the countryside, the festival was known as the Paganalia.
The Sementivae was a crucial event for Roman farmers, as it sought to ensure the fertility of the land and the success of the harvest. Through rituals, sacrifices, and prayers, the Romans hoped to gain the favor of the gods and ensure a bountiful agricultural season.
Digital Maps of the Ancient World 