Vitulatio
The Vitulatio was an annual festival celebrated on 8th July to commemorate a Roman victory over their enemies. It followed the Poplifugia, another festival associated with the same historical event.
Date: 8th July
Deity: Vitula
Observances: First fruits offering
The Vitulatio was a dies religiosus, a day marked by religious prohibitions and restrictions. People were expected to refrain from undertaking any activities other than attending to basic necessities.
The festival was named after the goddess Vitula, who embodied joy or perhaps life. According to Virgil, Vitula received offerings of first fruits. It was a time for thanksgiving and celebration, commemorating the Roman victory and expressing gratitude to the gods for their protection and guidance.
The association of Vitula with joy and life is fitting for a festival that commemorated a victory and a time of celebration. The Vitulatio was a joyful occasion, filled with thanksgiving and gratitude.
Digital Maps of the Ancient World 