Adsulatta : The River Goddess
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At a glance
| Description | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Balkan Mythology |
| Classification | Gods |
| Family Members | Savus (Husband) |
| Region | Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia |
| Associated With | River Savus |
Adsulatta
Introduction
Adsullata was a river goddess in Balkan mythology associated with the River Savus in Noricum. She was also believed to be the goddess of hot springs and the creator of the sun goddess Sul. A goddess of hot springs who came from Celtic Gaul, she is believed to have been a minor sun Goddess before the time when Celtic deities relegated male deities to female ones.
We don’t have much to work with these types of deities. At first, they were protective deities, but it is difficult to tell if they had any link to justice or retribution.
Physical Traits
Adsalutta was said to be extremely beautiful with long dark hair which mimicked the ripples on the river surface.
Family
It was revealed that Adsalluta and Savus were a divine couple whose native names were retained. The god Adsalluta was worshipped by the Taurisci. She shared responsibilities with Savus, the god of the river, who also looked after the safety of the travellers and merchants using the river.
Other Names
Adsullata was also referred to as Adsalluta even after being adopted by other cultures.
Modern Day Influence
The Savus was the river that connected Italy to the Danube. It became a major portion of the amber route.
Neptune’s altar was located across the river from the Savus’ and the Adsalluata. This was a compromise that would allow the local deities to remain without being offended.
Many travellers found altars near Celeia, which is now Celje. There, they would find inscriptions to Adsalluta and to a local deity named Lavus. They also came across a few inscriptions to another deity named Siscia.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Adsulatta in Balkan mythology?
Adsulatta is a significant figure in Balkan mythology, often recognized as a goddess associated with fertility, nature, and the harvest. She represents the life-giving aspects of the earth and is revered for her role in agricultural abundance.
What are the key attributes of Adsulatta?
Adsulatta embodies qualities such as nurturing, growth, and prosperity. She is often depicted as a maternal figure, symbolizing the connection between humans and the natural world, and her blessings are sought for fruitful crops and healthy livestock.
How is Adsulatta worshipped in the Balkans?
Worship of Adsulatta typically involves rituals, offerings, and festivals celebrating the earth’s fertility and the harvest. Communities may perform traditional dances, songs, and ceremonies to honor her and seek her favor for bountiful yields.
What role does Adsulatta play in local folklore?
In local folklore, Adsulatta is often featured in tales that explain natural phenomena, agricultural practices, and seasonal changes. She is frequently invoked in stories about the cycles of life and death, reflecting her integral role in the rhythms of nature.
How does Adsulatta compare to other deities in Balkan mythology?
Adsulatta is similar to other fertility goddesses found in various mythologies, such as Demeter in Greek mythology or Ceres in Roman mythology. While each deity has unique attributes, they all share a common theme of nurturing the earth and ensuring agricultural prosperity, highlighting the importance of fertility in human existence.
Sources
Wikipedia: Adsulatta – Wikipedia
Britannica: Adsulatta | Mythology – Britannica
“The Dictionary of Mythology: An A-Z of Themes, Legends and Heroes” by J.A. Coleman – Arcturus Publishing
“Gods and Myths of Northern Europe” by H.R. Ellis Davidson – Penguin Books
“The Celtic Gods: Comets in Irish Mythology” by Patrick McCafferty and Mike Baillie – Tempus Publishing
“The Mammoth Book of Celtic Myths and Legends” by Peter Berresford Ellis – Robinson Publishing
“Celtic Myths and Legends” by T.W. Rolleston – Dover Publications
“Celtic Heritage: Ancient Tradition in Ireland and Wales” by Alwyn Rees and Brinley Rees – Thames & Hudson
