In Roman mythology, Roman form of the deified Greek hero
Heracles. Possibly the first foreign cult accepted in Rome, he was popular with merchants due to his legendary travel and ability to ward off evil, and was seen as the personification of strength.
His principal centre of worship was the Ara Maxima on the Palatine, although several other sanctuaries or temples of Hercules existed in ancient Rome. The ceremonies excluded other gods, women, and dogs.
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