VULCAN


Roman mythology 

Vulcan, the Roman god of fire, especially destructive fire, and craftsmanship. 
His forge is located beneath Mount Etna. It is here that he, together with his 
helpers, forges weapons for gods and heroes. Vulcanus is closely associated with 
Bona Dea with whom he shared the Volcanalia, observed on August 23rd. This 
festival took place during the height of the Mediterranean drought and the 
period of highest risk of fire. On the banks of the river Tiber, fires were 
lighted on which living fish were sacrificed. His temples were usually located 
outside the cities, due to the dangerous nature of fire. In 215 B.C.E. his 
temple on the Circus Flaminius was inaugurated. In Ostia he was the chief god as 
the protector against fire in the grain storages. He is identified with the 
Greek Hephaestus.