Symbol of sacrifice, protection.
On April 21, the Parilia event took place. This was a pre-Rome event held in the countryside. Shepherds swept out their sheep pen and built a bonfire of laurel, sulfur, olive branches, and straw to begin this purifying celebration. The shepherd would jump over the fire while dragging his sheep behind him, so purifying them. The shepherd then made presents to the god Pales, protector of herds and flocks, including milk, cakes, and millet, and prayed for the safety of his sheep. After the shepherd drank a mixture of wine and milk and jumped three more times over the fire, the ceremony came to a close.
Later, the festival was linked to the establishment of Rome, and there were numerous celebrations, including street dance and singing. This event was one of Easter’s forerunners.