Tubilustrium
The Tubilustrium was a ceremony held to purify the army and prepare it for war. The festival took place on 23rd March, the last day of the Quinquatria. It was also held again on 23rd May.
Date: 23rd March and 23rd May
Observances: Animal sacrifice and procession
The Tubilustrium involved the use of sacred trumpets called tubae. The ceremony was conducted in the Hall of the Shoemakers in Rome and included the sacrifice of a ewe lamb.
Those who missed the ceremony would be reminded of it by the sight of the Salii, a group of priests who performed a sacred dance through the streets of Rome. The Salii wore ceremonial garments and carried shields and spears, symbolizing the martial spirit of the Roman army.
Digital Maps of the Ancient World 