Fratres Arvales
The Fratres Arvales were a college of priests in ancient Rome responsible for ensuring the fertility of the land and the prosperity of the harvest. Their rituals and sacrifices were believed to protect the crops and ensure abundant harvests.
Origins and Structure
The Fratres Arvales were believed to have been founded by Romulus, the first king of Rome. They were originally associated with the Sabine priesthood of Sodales Titii and were considered to be a very ancient institution.
The college consisted of twelve priests, although only nine names are known from inscriptions. Members were appointed for life and did not lose their status, even in exile.
Rituals and Duties
Their primary duty was to worship Dea Dia, an ancient fertility goddess. They performed sacrifices and chanted the Carmen Arvale, a sacred song, during her festival.
The festival took place over three days, beginning in Rome and then moving to a sacred grove outside the city. The Fratres Arvales would lead a procession around a grain field, offering sacrifices and chanting praises to Ceres, the goddess of agriculture.
They used traditional rituals that included the use of the olla terrea, an unbaked earthen jar, and the sacrificial burner of Dea Dia, made of silver and adorned with grassy clods.
Restoration and Survival
The importance of the Fratres Arvales declined during the Roman Republic, but they were revived by Emperor Augustus. Under Augustus, the college consisted of a master, a vice-master, a flamen, a praetor, and eight ordinary members.
The Fratres Arvales continued to perform their rituals and sacrifices well into the Imperial period. Their Acta Arvalia, or minutes of their proceedings, provide valuable insights into their activities and beliefs.
The Fratres Arvales were abolished by 400 AD along with other traditional Roman priesthoods. However, their legacy continues to be studied and appreciated as a testament to the rich religious and cultural heritage of ancient Rome.
Digital Maps of the Ancient World 