The Salii guarded and carried the twelve sacred ancilia shields during their March and October processions. The shields were stored in the Regia and entrusted to the Salii's care as pledges of Rome's safety.
Jupiter sent the sacred ancile falling from the sky during Numa's reign, and the Salii were established as its dancing guardians, bearing the shield through Rome in annual procession while chanting Jupiter's name in the ancient Carmen Saliare.
The Salii honored Mamurius Veturius in the Carmen Saliare and celebrated his festival, the Mamuralia, on March 14. He forged the eleven replica ancilia shields that the Salii carried in their processions.
Numa Pompilius founded the Salii priesthood after an ancile fell from heaven as a divine pledge of Rome's safety. He established their ritual dances, songs, and processions as part of his religious reforms.
We use cookies to understand how you use our site and improve your experience. Learn more