15th December 2010
Quote
The Saturnalia, descended from Sacaea of ancient Babylon, lasted a week and were, like the Matronalia, an occasion of let loose. Hierarchies were inverted: the rich served the poor, who invaded their homes, wore their clothes, ate at their tables, and slept in their beds. Saturnalia, homage to the god Saturn, culminated on December 25. That was the day of Sol Invictus, Unconquered Sun, which centuries later became Christmas by Catholic decree.
— “Mirrors: Stories of Almost Everyone” by Eduardo Galeano
Tagged: historychristmascatholicbookstory
