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The Ludi Apollinares were the games Rome dedicated to Apollo starting on July 6. They began in 212 BC, in the thick of the Second Punic War, and remained one of the best-loved observances of the Roman summer.
- Date: from July 6, later running to the 13th in the imperial calendar
- Deity: Apollo
- Origin: 212 BC, after the prophecy of Marcius
- Source: Livy, XXV 12 and XXVII 23
The Prophecy of Marcius
Livy tells us that in 212 BC, after the battle of Cannae and other defeats, the Senate had the prophecies of a seer named Marcius read out. One of them promised the expulsion of the enemy if Rome established games for Apollo and paid for a sacrifice according to the Greek rite. The urban praetor Cornelius Sulla presided over the first games.
From Vow to Annual Festival
At first the games were vowed for one year only. In 208 BC, because of a plague, the Senate made them annual. Their day fell on July 13, but over time the festival expanded to several days, up to the 13th.
Where They Were Held
They took place in the Circus Maximus, with races and shows. The temple of Apollo, built in the 5th century BC during a plague, stood near the Theater of Marcellus. To learn more, see our page on the Circus Maximus and the one on the Theater of Marcellus.
The Link to the Other Game Festivals
The Ludi Apollinares stand alongside the Ludi Romani of September and the Ludi Plebei of November. For a comparison with a games festival still remembered today, also read about the Ludi Plebei of November.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Ludi Apollinares begin?
In 212 BC, during the Second Punic War, on the advice of the prophecy of Marcius.
Where were they held?
In the Circus Maximus, with races and shows in honor of Apollo.
How many days did the festival last?
At first just one day. Over time it expanded to several days, from July 6 to the 13th.
This festival is part of the calendar of ancient Roman festivals and the mos maiorum, where you can find all the other observances.
Sources
- Livy, Ab Urbe condita XXV 12 and XXVII 23
- Macrobius, Saturnalia I 17
The illustrations are generated with artificial intelligence for evocative purposes.