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Goddess Cybele: Shrines from Anatolia to Ancient Rome with Veronica Iacomi
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During our conversation, we will examine the historical context of Cybele's impact on Roman civilization. Her cult was introduced in Rome during the war against Hannibal to protect Roman people and territories from the threatening menace of the Carthaginian general and his elephants. A grand festival was later dedicated to Cybele and included several games and shows – including famous comedies by authors like Plautus and Terentius.
Led by an expert on the Archaeology of the Roman Provinces, Veronica Iacomi, our discussion will revolve around the most popular female deity of the ancient Mediterranean. We will virtually traverse her primary sanctuaries in Pessinus and Rome. Designed to inform curiosity as well as future travels, participants will come away with an increased understanding of the varied forms of Roman religious iconography which have survived the tests of time.
Veronica is a PhD archaeologist who worked on excavations in Rome and abroad (Turkey) for over 20 years. Subject topics of her research range from funerary archaeology to domestic architecture, with a special interest in Late Antiquity, the Provinces of the Roman Empire, processes of assimilation and cultural interchanges, economy and production in the Antiquity. Enthusiastic traveller and explorer, she has always devoted herself not only to her academic career but also to dissemination activities as a lecturer, tour guide in Rome (for over 10 years), tour planner and leader for trips all around the Mediterrenean. History buff, in love for her city - Rome, the Eternal City! -, moved by curiousity and a genuine passion for stories behind History, she likes to convey her expertise while never forgetting how to be also a good companion for your exploration of the ancient world.
This conversation is suitable for all ages.
90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.
I learned so much about the history of Cybele to Magna Mater. I'm writing a historical novel about the era of 1st c. BCE. It was helpful to see the links between many historical and mythological figures. Delightful presenter!