obnuntiatio

ancient Roman history

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July 1, 2026

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The term "obnuntiatio" refers to a procedure in ancient Roman history where a magistrate could prevent a legislative assembly from proceeding by claiming to have witnessed unfavorable omens, such as lightning or the behavior of birds. This religious formality, known as obnuntiatio, was a way for conservative senators to restrain the democratic elements of the political process by halting legislative action on religious grounds. The days on which legislative assemblies could be held were also reduced by laws like the Aelian and Fufian laws, around 150 BCE. This practice highlights the significant role religion played in Roman politics and law.12

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ancient Rome
Citizenship and politics in the middle republic
…omens in a procedure called obnuntiatio. In addition, the days of the year on which legislative assemblies could be held were reduced. As conservative senators worked to restrain the democratic element in the political processes, the plebeians sought to expand their freedom. Voting in electoral and judicial assemblies had been…
Read More
…omens in a procedure called obnuntiatio. In addition, the days of the year on which legislative assemblies could be held were reduced. As conservative senators worked to restrain the democratic element in the political processes, the plebeians sought to expand their freedom. Voting in electoral and judicial assemblies had been…
Read More