The Religio Romana - Roman Paganism: The Religio Romana is the pre-Christian religion of Rome, sometimes known as "Roman Paganism." The roots of the Religio Romana lie in a local earth-based religion which later developed into the State religion. The ancient Romans were animists, and believed that numina (spirits) were present in everything and influenced every aspect of their daily life. Their religion involved a collection of beliefs and practices honoring ancestral and divine spirits through precise actions and prayers in order to gain favor and achieve peace with the Gods. This practice has been compared to a legal contract - a contract with the gods. Strict attention to the details of worship was essential for the maintenance of the contract, and a successful and happy life. In the earliest days of ancient Rome, all religious rites were performed in the home. The paterfamilias (head of the family) presided over rituals performed at the lararium (altar) near the hearth in the center of the home. The daily needs of these early families included good weather, good health, and abundant harvests. Soon, the needs of the family grew to include the needs of the community, and then the State. A hierarchy of priests conducted a multitude of rites at each of the many festivals and religious holidays that characterized ancient Roman daily life.

Our members recommend their favorite books on the Religio Romana: Metamorphoses, by Ovid Ovid's poetic telling of Greek mythology and Latin folklore. Chaos becomes order in this tale of transformation. A must for any Religio library. ~Aurelia Fasti, by Ovid Another must-have for anyone interested in the ancient Roman calendar of festivals. Intended to be 12 books, one for each month, Ovid completed only 6 before his death. ~Aurelia The Nature of the Gods, by Marcus Tullius Cicero Cicero tries to answer the question 'What are the gods really like?' This book is actually philosophy, and gives a good picture of one Roman's attempt to understand the gods. ~Aurelia Religions of Rome, by Mary Beard, J. North, S. Price Part one of two volumes, this book is an excellent history of Roman religion, from the founding of Rome to the conversion to Christianity. An excellent book! (Also see Volume Two.) ~Aurelia An Introduction to Roman Religion, by John Scheid A fantastic and very readable introduction. Great discussion of the calendar, temples, rituals, priests, and the modern interpretation of all of these. ~Aurelia Dictionary of Roman Religion, by Lesley Adkins Very comprehensive! From Abandinus (a Celtic god) to Zosimus (a Greek historian), this volume covers the people, places, deities, festivals, and events that were important to the Romans. ~Aurelia You may also browse our complete list of recommendations.