Bona Dea

Bona Dea ('the good goddess'), a mysterious Italian goddess of fertility, who is variously described as the wife, sister, or daughter of Faunus. She was worshipped at Rome from the most ancient times, but only by women, even her name being concealed from men. Her sanctuary was a grotto on Mons Aventinus; but her festival (the 1st of May) was celebrated in the house of the consul. The solemnities were performed generally by high-born vestals. At this celebration, no males were allowed to be present; even portraits of men were veiled. During the celebration in the house of Cæsar (62 B.C.), the infamous Clodius was discovered disguised as a female musician. The symbol of the goddess was a serpent, indicating her healing powers.