Lupercalia: An ancient festival between savagery and purification

In ancient Rome, Lupercalia was one of the most fascinating and intriguing festivals in the calendar. Celebrated annually around February 15, it combined purification, fertility, and mythology, while paying homage to wolves, the symbolic protectors of Rome.

Let me take you on a journey to the heart of this ancient celebration.

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An origin rooted in mythology

The Lupercalia takes its name from Lupercus , a Roman deity who protected herds. It was also associated with Faunus , the god of forests and fields. But beyond these divine figures, the Lupercalia was directly linked to the famous myth of Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome.

According to legend, the two brothers, abandoned to their fate, were saved and suckled by a she-wolf in a sacred cave called the Lupercal, located at the foot of the Palatine Hill.

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Rituals: between sacrifices and blessings

The festivities began with a ritual sacrifice. The Luperci, priests of this ceremony, sacrificed goats (symbols of fertility) and sometimes a dog (symbol of purification). With the blood of the sacrifices, they made a mark on the foreheads of the participants, which they then cleansed with wool soaked in milk, a symbol of rebirth and purity.

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Once this rite was completed, it was time for the famous ritual race. The priests, sometimes naked or scantily clad, ran through the city holding goatskin thongs, called februa (from which the word "February" comes). They gently struck passersby, especially women, who crowded to receive these symbolic blows. Why? These gestures were believed to bring good luck, encourage fertility, and protect against evil spirits.

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A celebration that left its mark on its time

Although seen as somewhat wild and licentious, Lupercalia was a central celebration for the Romans, blending mythology and rural traditions. It also marked a time of renewal, heralding the end of winter and preparation for the planting season.

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The Transition to Valentine's Day

With the rise of Christianity, the Lupercalia was deemed incompatible with new religious values. It was gradually phased out, replaced by holidays more in keeping with the Church, such as Valentine's Day, which falls very close to the date. Some historians believe that the latter was created to divert attention from pagan festivities.

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The Mystery and Legacy of the Lupercalia

Today, Lupercalia remains a fascinating celebration to study, a testament to a time when mythology, superstition, and symbolism were closely intertwined with daily life.

They also recall other pagan winter festivals focused on purification and fertility, such as Imbolc in Celtic traditions.

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So, what do you think of this Roman festival?

Would you have participated in this symbolic race, or would you prefer Valentine's Day roses?