What festival honored the Lares at the crossroads?

The festival that honored the Lares at the crossroads is Compitalia. The Lares are deities associated with the protection of the household and the land, and they were particularly revered at crossroads, which were seen as significant points of transition and protection.

Compitalia was celebrated in honor of these spirits, with rituals taking place at the compita, or crossroads, where small shrines might be erected. During this festival, offerings were made to the Lares, emphasizing their role in safeguarding the neighborhood and ensuring a favorable environment for the community.

This festival was also characterized by community engagement, which included the gathering of citizens to take part in ceremonies and offerings. The focus on the Lares at these crossroads highlights the importance of these deities in the everyday lives of the Roman people, contrasting with other festivals that were directed at different gods or themes.

Lemuria, on the other hand, was primarily dedicated to appeasing restless spirits of the dead, while Lupercalia was a festival associated with fertility and the protection of livestock. Liberalia celebrated the coming-of-age of young boys and involved different rituals focused on the god Liber. Each of these festivals had its own unique characteristics and deities that they honored, which further