Pages: 257-272 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.55086/sp254257272

The Romans accepted a lot of customs from other nations, including the Bacchic cult, which blossomed in Rome in the 2nd century BC. In this article, we analyze the Etruscan epitaph of Laris Pulena, suggesting that he was the founder of the Bacchanalia, drawing on research from various perspectives. First, we look at the studies that interpreted the inscription of Laris Pulena. Second, analyzing the revolt in Volsinii, we explain that the Etruscans had an allied community within the Italic Federation. Thirdly, to clarify whether the magistrates led the Bacchic cult in Tarquinii, we study the inscriptions from this city. We will focus on the inscription of Laris Pulena, giving our own deciphering. In conclusion, Laris Pulena was not the founder of the Bacchic cult in Rome; perhaps his great-grandfather, Pula, was.

Keywords: Bacchanalia, Bacchic cult, ancient Rome, Etruscans, inscriptions, magistrates

Information about author:

Andrii Yanko (Poltava, Ukraine). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Poltava Basic Medical College. Stritenskaya St., 51A, Poltava, 36011, Ucraina
E-mail: [email protected]
ORCID: 0000-0003-3556-5119