The cult of heroes reflected on mosaic pavements
The cult of heroes reflected on mosaic pavements

Summary/Abstract: Figural mosaics pavements were one of the most significant elements of interior decoration in antique private buildings. It is certain that parallel to their decorative function they were deeply associated with the social and religious life of members of household. This is why the mosaics representations set within their architectural and social context could become an extremely important evidence for changing interests and beliefs in the ancient word. Founded by private people and used in private houses, mosaics reflect the vision of world which is quite different from the official religious propaganda. Unfortunately, only few representations known from mosaics are strictly related to private cult practices. The mosaic with a scene of sacrifice from Saint-Romain-en-Gal and from Ostia, some mosaic panels from Roman Villa in Casale and a mysterious composition from Amisos can be treated as exceptions. They give us some ideas about private cult practices in Greco-Roman world and tell us about hopes of their founders.

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