Concordia

In ancient Roman religion, Concordia is the goddess who embodies agreement in marriage and society. Her Greek equivalent is usually regarded as Harmonia. The concept of musical harmony serves as a metaphor for an ideal of social concord or entente during the Republican era.

Role and symbolism

• Concordia represented unity, agreement, and peaceful coexistence among members or classes of the Roman state.
• Her Greek equivalent is usually regarded as Harmonia. The concept of musical harmony served as a metaphor for an ideal of social concord during the Republican era.
• She was often associated with Pax (the goddess of peace) in representing a stable society.

Depictions in art and numismatics

• In Roman art, Concordia was depicted sitting, wearing a long cloak, and holding various symbols:
  • Patera: A sacrificial bowl.
  • Cornucopia: A symbol of prosperity.
  • Caduceus: A symbol of peace.
• She was often shown between two other figures, such as members of the Imperial family shaking hands.
• Imperial coins frequently featured Concordia, including those issued by Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus.

Temples

• The oldest Temple of Concord, built in 367 BC by Marcus Furius Camillus, stood on the Roman Forum.
• Other temples and shrines dedicated to Concordia were geographically related to the main temple, emphasizing her importance in Roman ideology.