Bona Dea

Bona Dea, an Italian goddess, especially patronised by the women of Rome, who from very ancient times celebrated her rites, men being most rigidly excluded from all participation in them; and even the portraits of men being veiled. She was the goddess of fertility, and has been described as wife, sister, or daughter of Faunus. High-born vestals conducted her rites, which took place on the 1st of May at the house of the Consul. It was at Caesar's house (in 62 B.C.) that Clodius took part in the rites disguised as a musician. Her sanctuary was a grotto on Mount Avernus, and the healing serpent was her symbol.