The autumnal period in ancient Rome encompassed various festivals and rituals dedicated to honoring the deceased and ensuring prosperity for the coming year. These observances, occurring primarily in October and November, shared thematic similarities with modern Halloween traditions, focusing on remembrance, appeasement of spirits, and agricultural cycles.
The significance of these Roman practices lies in their reflection of societal beliefs regarding death, the afterlife, and the connection between the living and the dead. Performing these rituals was seen as essential for maintaining social order, preventing misfortune, and guaranteeing successful harvests. Historical sources, including literary works and archaeological evidence, provide insights into the ceremonies and their cultural impact.
