Mars (mythology)

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Mars is the Roman god of war and also an agricultural guardian, a combination characteristic of early Rome. He was second in importance only to Jupiter and he was the most prominent of the military gods in the religion of the Roman army. Most of his festivals were held in March, the month named for him (Latin Martius), and in October, which began and ended the season for military campaigning and farming.

Origins and Development

Mars was originally a god of fertility and vegetation, and a protector of cattle, fields, and boundaries. His role as a god of war was a later development, influenced by the Greek god Ares. Unlike Ares, who was viewed negatively by the Greeks, Mars was highly regarded by the Romans and was considered a father of the Roman people. According to Roman myth, he was the father of Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome, with the priestess Rhea Silvia.

Worship and Festivals

Mars was worshipped primarily by the Roman army, and his main temple was located in the Campus Martius ("Field of Mars"), a publicly owned area of ancient Rome. The Salii, a group of priests, performed rituals in his honor, including the carrying of sacred shields called ancilia.

The main festivals of Mars included:

• Equirria: Held on February 27 and March 14, involving horse races.
• Feriae Marti: Celebrated on March 1, marking the beginning of the new military campaign season.
• October Horse: Held on October 15, involving a chariot race and the sacrifice of a horse.

Iconography

Mars is often depicted as a mature, bearded man in full battle armor, including a helmet, shield, and spear. He is sometimes shown with a wolf or woodpecker, animals that were sacred to him. In art, Mars is often accompanied by Bellona, a goddess of war, or by Venus, with whom he had a love affair.

Mars in Roman Culture

Mars was not only a god of war but also a symbol of Roman military power and prowess. His influence extended beyond the battlefield to the very identity of Rome itself. The Roman legions often invoked Mars for strength and victory in battle. The Roman calendar and many Roman customs and traditions were deeply intertwined with the worship of Mars.

Related Pages

• Ares
• Roman mythology
• Romulus and Remus
• Jupiter (mythology)
• Venus (mythology)
• Bellona (goddess)
• Campus Martius
• Salii
• Equirria
• October Horse