13 February: The Parentalia, Ancient Rome

On this date, the Parentali was observed in Rome - an Ancient Roman celebration similar to the Day of the Dead. Here are ten facts about it.

1. What is the Parentali? Basically, a nine day festival to honour deceased relatives.
2. It began at noon on 13 February and lasted until the 21st.
3. On the first day there would be a public ceremony conducted by a Vestal Virgin, at the tomb of Tarpeia.
4. Throughout the nine days, the state reinforced the importance of honouring the family by making it a time when no marriages or official business could take place.
5. In general, though, it was a family time with each family holding their own rites and celebrations at the family tombs, which were located outside of the city.
6. People would make sacrifices and libations at their family graves, offering such things as flower-garlands, Wheat, Salt, Wine-soaked Bread and Violets.
7. Although initially a celebration of dead relatives, in time it became a celebration of the dead in general.
8. Most of what we know about this festival comes from the writings of Ovid.
9. The Parentalia was a time of quiet reflection, unlike most Roman holidays, which were full of boisterous partying.
10. On the final day of Parentalia, a public feast called the Feralia was held.

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