When many think of Ancient Roman stadiums, gladiators or chariot racing often come to mind. But another type of games took place in such amphitheaters during spring time—ones full of colors, flowers, and sex. Floralia was a festival that occurred in late April till early May to celebrate the end of winter and honor a fertility goddess—who may or may not have been a “prostitute.” Whatever can be said of the deity, the celebration itself most definitely included sex workers. Along with circus stunts, bunny hunts, mimes, jesters, dancing, and…
