Suleviae facts for kids

Sulevia was a goddess from ancient Celtic times. People in places like Gaul (which is now France), Roman Britain (England and Wales), and Galicia (in Spain) worshipped her. Often, she was called by her plural names, Suleviae or Sule(v)is.

We know about Sulevia from about forty special stone carvings, called inscriptions. These inscriptions have been found across the Celtic world, especially in areas like Noricum (part of modern-day Austria), among the Helvetii (an ancient tribe in Switzerland), along the Rhine river, and even in Rome. Experts think the name Suleviae might mean "those who govern well." This suggests she was a goddess who helped guide or lead people.

What Do Inscriptions Tell Us?

Ancient inscriptions are like old messages carved into stone. They help us learn about gods and goddesses from the past. Sometimes, the Suleviae were connected to other goddesses. For example, in one inscription, they were linked to the Roman goddess Junones. More often, they were seen as similar to the Matres, another group of Celtic goddesses.

One important inscription was found in Roman Colchester in Britain. It says:

MATRIBVS SVLEVIS SIMILIS ATTI F CI CANT VSLM

This means: "To the Sulevi mothers, Similis, son of Attius, from the Civitas Cantiacorum, willingly and deservedly fulfills his vow." This shows that people made promises or offerings to the Sulevi mothers.

In another carving, a single goddess named Suleviae Idennicae was mentioned alongside the Roman goddess Minerva. This suggests she might have had different forms or connections.

Who Were the Suleviae?

Many experts believe the Suleviae were goddesses who protected homes and families. They were honored by people from all parts of society, from ordinary families to important leaders.

There's a theory that the Suleviae might have been a "triple goddess" version of Sulis Minerva, another important goddess. However, not all researchers agree with this idea. They think the similar names might just be a coincidence and that there isn't a direct link between them. Another idea connects the Suleviae to the Xulsigiae, goddesses known from a place called Trier. But this connection is also debated by experts.

See also

• Triple Goddess