Baccus Lord of the Grapes

Boddington

A quick detour down Gold Mine Rd just north of Boddington and you'll discover this Len Zukes cement sculpture of Baccus, the Roman God of wine and agriculture - a fitting combination for Marradong Country. Here are some interesting facts about the party boy;

• He was the god of more than just wine. Baccus was primarily known as the god of agriculture and wine but was also associated with fertility, drama, and revelry. In regards to agriculture, he was depicted as a god of trees and forest and was often sought ought to help the orchards grow.    

• Loved a costume. Always dressed in party-ready attire with accompanying grape bunch(es), a wine cup, and a stylish crown of ivy atop his head.     

• He had famous parents. Baccus was the son of the god Jupiter (Zeus) and the Theben princess, Semele, making him the only god born to a mortal mother.

• He was the youngest member of the 12 Olympians. Also referred to as the pantheon of 12 major gods, Baccus held the last seat at this prestigious table. Although he wasn’t the most powerful, being the god of celebrations, wine, and ecstasy, he was arguably the most popular.

• He threw huge parties. Secret ritualistic parties called Bacchanalia were held mid-March, attended only by women at first. The festivals soon were opened to men and took place five times a month. They became the ancient day frat party, filled with drunken revelry, sexual liberty, and general debauchery. They were so infamous that they were banned for a time by the Roman Senate.