Among the ancient Romans Flamen was the name given to any priest devoted to the service of one particular deity. Originally there were three priests so called: the Flamen Dialis, consecrated to Jupiter; Flamen Martialis, sacred to Mars; and Flamen Quirinalis, who superintended the rights of Quirinus or Romulus; but the number was ultimately increased to fifteen, the original three, however, retaining priority in point of rank, being styled Majores, and elected from among the patricians, while the other twelve, called Minores, were elected from the plebeians. Research Flamen
The Salii were a college of priests at ancient Rome associated with the worship of Mars. They were twelve in number, and were always patricians. At the festival of Mars, which was held on March the first and following days, they went dancing through the city, carrying the sacred shields. There was a second college of Salii, devoted to Quirinus. Research Salii
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Abbreviations
Research Flamen
