Terminus

Terminus (tûr'minus) [key], in ancient Rome, both the boundary markers between properties and the name of the god who watched over boundaries. Property lines were of great importance, particularly to farmers, and boundary stones were laid in a solemn ceremony. The rites of the Terminalia, held on Feb. 23, reinforced the sanctity of these markers. Terminus was often merged with Jupiter as Jupiter Terminus.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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