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The cult of the Magna Mater was led by the priestesses along with the Archigallus, a castrated male priest responsible for dance, divination and healing. For followers of Attis, the Magna Mater was dedicated
to Attis, a god of fertility and agriculture. Through Attis's death and resurrection, agricultural success was insured. Attis' ceremonies involved bull sacrifice and baptism of initiates in bull blood.
A major festival of Attis occured on March 25, to celebrate Attis' death. After three days of grieving, followers celebrated the Hilaria, welcoming the resurrection and fertility thanks to the power given
by the Magna Mater.
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Copyright 2007 by Bill Storage |
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Keywords: imperial, emperor, Tiber River, port, harbor, grain import, concrete, brick, mosaic, antiquity, art history, archaeology, antica, Ostia, ancient Rome