In ancient Rome, the Salii ritual was one of the most important elements of the cult of Mars, the god of war. These were elite priests who wore special costumes and performed characteristic ritual dances and songs during the annual celebrations. Their ceremonies were intended to ensure prosperity in wars, protect the city, and guarantee Rome’s power on the battlefields.
Salii were chosen from among young aristocrats, which emphasized their prestige. They stood out by wearing richly decorated tunics, bronze armour and special helmets resembling ancient armour. A characteristic element of their outfit was also a small, sacred shield – ancilia – which, as it was believed, was given to the Romans by Mars himself. According to legend, one of these shields was supposed to fall from the sky as a sign of divine protection.
In March, the month dedicated to Mars, the Salii – dressed in the costumes of ancient Italian warriors and armed with sacred shields (ancilia) – roamed the streets of Rome, performing ritual dances and singing archaic songs, the so-called Carmen Saliare. Although the words of these songs were difficult to understand in ancient times, it was believed that they carried the power of the gods. The entire procession began when the pontifex maximus drew the sacred spear (an attribute of Mars) and uttered the significant words: Mars vigila! (Mars, watch out!). This act symbolically started the war. This ritual was performed twice a year: in March and October, on the 19th day of a given month. It marked the symbolic beginning and end of hostilities.
