Lupercalia

Today is the Roman festival of the Lupercalia. One reason to celebrate the day is because it marks the day that a she-wolf suckled, and thus saved, Romulus and Remus allowing them to live and later found the city of Rome. This day is also sacred to Faunus, an aspect of Pan, who is the protector of agriculture and flocks. He is also a provider of oracles. To celebrate the Lupercalia in ancient times the priests would sacrifice goats and a dog and sacred cakes. Then two young noblemen would be smeared with the sacrificial blood and carry strips of goat flesh through the city, striking young women on the arms in order to promote fertility. It was something of a coming of age for the young men.