Venus Cloacina: Roman Goddess Of Sewers And Drains

A. Sutherland  – AncientPages.com – During the long course of their Empire (650 BC – 400 AD), the Romans worshipped many deities. They had gods everywhere and for almost every possible situation and action.

In Roman mythology, Cloacina was a goddess who presided over the sewer system in ancient Rome and drained the waste of the city.

Above: L. Mussidius Longus. 42 BC. AR Denarius (17mm, 4.04 g, 1h). Rome mint. Concordia’s veiled, diademed bust. Below: Two statues of Venus Cloacina on a platform with balustrade of the Venus Cloacina’s shrine. Crawford 494/42b; CRI 188a; Sydenham 1093a; Mussidia. source

She was responsible for the system’s smooth operation and patronized the workers who served the sewer. In a city as large as Rome, sewer problems were considered as a big trouble.

In ancient Rome, considerable importance was attached to Cloacina who was identified with Venus. A coin was minted in honor of Cloacina, whose statue still exists in Rome. Besides, a small, round, stone sanctuary was dedicated to the goddess.

Ancient Rome, nicknamed ‘Eternal City’, was a large city. Entertainment, foods were essential. However, a properly functioning sewage system played a crucial role, too.

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