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Marriage

Roman girls were allowed to marry at the age of 12, but most waited until they became 14. The young Romans did not have a lot of choice about whom they married. Parents made the choice, and they were often for business, political or social reasons.

There were different types of marriage contract - in republican times, the woman's husband's father would own the woman's money and other possessions. Later, the women controlled their own property and had more freedom. Weddings were often taken place in the second half of June, which was thought to be a lucky period. Many days in the Roman calendar were considered unlucky. Therefore, wedding days had to be chosen carefully.

On the wedding day, flowers and ribbons were decorated on the bride's house. The bride wore a white tunic, a red veil, red shoes, and her hair was braided. After the guests and bridegroom arrived, the priest asked the gods if the day was lucky. The ceremony was continued if the answer turned out to be favorable. Next, the contract was signed, and the chief bridesmaid joined the bride's hand with the groom's. They would then pray to the gods, and the bride promised to follow the groom wherever he went.

There was a ceremony at the bride's father's house after the ceremony was over. Then, a procession of guests, torch-bearers and flute players were led to the groom's house by the bride and groom. When they arrived, the groom carried the bride through the entrance.

Here are external links about the Roles of Men, Women and Children in Ancient Rome, Roman Weddings and Engagement and Marriage in Ancient Rome.