Numa Pompilius (715–673 BCE) Flashcards
Who was Numa Pompilius?
The second king of Rome, known for his wisdom and religious reforms, ruling from 715 to 673 BCE.
Where was Numa Pompilius born?
In the city of Cures, in the region of Sabines.
What is Numa Pompilius most known for?
Establishing Rome’s religious institutions and introducing key religious practices.
Which famous Roman institution did Numa create?
He created the role of the Pontifex Maximus, the chief priest.
Who were the Vestal Virgins and which Roman king established them?
The Vestal Virgins were priestesses who kept Rome’s sacred fire; they were established by Numa Pompilius.
What did Numa Pompilius add to the Roman calendar?
He added the months of January and February.
What was the significance of closing the doors of the Temple of Janus?
It symbolized peace throughout the Roman state.
What time period did Numa Pompilius live in?
Around the 8th century BCE, during the early days of Rome’s monarchy.
What was the focus of Numa’s reign compared to Romulus’s?
Numa focused on peace and religion, whereas Romulus was more militaristic.
How did Numa influence Roman society?
He created religious practices and legal systems that became central to Roman identity.
What kind of laws did Numa Pompilius establish?
Laws that emphasized justice, morality, and public service.
How did later Roman leaders view Numa Pompilius?
He was seen as a model of wise and pious leadership.
Did Numa Pompilius face any opposition during his reign?
Yes, he had to convince Rome’s warrior class to embrace peace and religious reforms.
What did Numa Pompilius use to gain societal support for his reforms?
He used religion, claiming divine support for his changes.
What was one controversy regarding Numa’s reign?
There is uncertainty about whether Numa Pompilius was a real historical figure or a legendary one.
