Congiarium

A Congiarium (Latin: donation, gift, plural: Congiarien ) was originally an imperial grain donation in ancient Rome.

The name is derived from the unit congius (3.20 liters) and was initially a Natural and later a cash benefit of the emperor and wealthy Romans to the people, usually on the occasion of festive events. It was a voluntary benefit to which the people had no right, however, was not connected with the hope or the right to return.

The Arch of Constantine contains a relief on the awarding of donations by Emperor Constantine is shown. Also, many ancient Roman coins dedicated to this topic, making the Congiarium partly Liberalitas ( give = willingness, without being obliged to do ) was called.

Maybe the Cocagna is due to the custom of the Congiarien.

• Festivals and Customs ( Antiquity)