Antiquity Studies

Alcuni aspetti del culto domestico in Cisalpina

crossmark logo

Abstract

After a survey of the current state of research – along with some updates and reflections on possible future avenues of study regarding cult practices in daily life (such as personal ornaments, decorations on furniture and household items), and on the presence of deities in funerary contexts – this paper deals with the aspect of domestic worship of the Genius and Iuno. The distribution of herms dedicated to these entities, presumably from private residences, is examined, as well as the dissemination of small bronze figurines, also in relation to other domestic deities such as the Lares. Following a brief mention of the unique evidence provided by the painted altars from Mediolanum, the discussion turns to rituals performed only once in a house’s life cycle, such as those related to its foundation, renovation, or abandonment.


Open access

Submitted: July 31, 2025 | Published Dec. 18, 2025 | Language: it

Keywords Foundation ritualsDeposit wellsAbandonment ritualsGenius and IunoPainted altars


read this chapter