Tellus Mater
Mythic, worshipped in ancient Rome, circa 753 B.C.E.–476 C.E.
Also known as Terra Mater, this goddess is the Roman counterpart of the Greek goddess Gaea. Literally “Mother Earth,” Tellus Mater was responsible for agriculture and earthquakes, as well as marriage and fertility. Her festival, held annually on April 15, was called the Fordicia and required the sacrifice of pregnant cows.
