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Roman mythology
Vulcan
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.