Io Saturnalia!

As we approach the Christmas celebrations, it's interesting to recall the ancient Roman tradition of Saturnalia held to honour  the god, Saturn and to mark the winter solstice.This was a period that began on 17 December and ended on either 23/ 24 December of the Julian calendar.

It began with a sacrifice to the god, Saturn at his temple in the Forum and was followed by a public feast. It was a time when the normally formal Romans relaxed and indulged in a week of fun. 

The Roman poet, Catullus called it "the best of days".

In observing Saturnalia, people decorated tree and greeted one another with "Io Saturnalia" (pronounced "yo Saturnalia") and exchanged fun gifts and small figurines made of wax or pottery known as sigallaria. 

No doubt, it was a time of feasting, gluttony and drunkenness - not unlike our own festive celebrations. During Saturnalia, it was common for the Romans to wear fancy dress and masks. Some historians relate this to our own observation of Hallowe'en. 

For me, the most interesting thing about the festival, was the treatment of Rome's slaves. During Saturnalia, masters often cooked meals and served their slaves as equals. Of course, they weren't equal and after 23/24 December, all pretence was dropped and the slaves resumed their wretched roles in Roman society.

"Io Saturnalia!"

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