Calendae Ianuariae

Today on calendae Ianuariae, or first day of January, we celebrate the beginning of a new year. The Latin word Calendae means the first day of every month in the Roman calendar. (Rather obvious is the English word "calendar" that is derived from it.) Ianuarius is the month of January, named after Janus, the Roman god of all beginnings and origins, the guardian of doors, gateways, and passages, and the patron of agreements and alliances. There is no equivalent god to Janus in Greek mythology.

Two-faced Janus God looking backwards and forward

Calendae Ianuariae became significant in 153 BC when Julius Caesar added two months before March to better align with the solar cycle. On this day, Roman consuls took office (instead of the traditional Ides of March as done earlier).

Julian calendar with the two additional months added before March

On this Calendae Ianuariae, let's toast to new beginnings, new pathways, and a new future filled with limitless possibilities! Novus Annus, or Happy New Year! 🥂

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History of Medicine

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