Quirinus

Quirinus was the third Roman deity in importance or ranking, behind Jupiter and Mars. These three gods formed a triad of warrior deities. However, Quirinus' attributes and origin seem obscure.

Quirinus was possibly a deification of the first Roman king, Romulus. Or he may have been originally tutelary god of the Sabines, living on Quirinal Hill in Rome, before the Romans adopted him.

According to the poet Ovid, Romulus and his wife Hersilie became immortal and lived as the god Quirinus and the goddess Hora.

Quirinus was probably a god of war or defence, since he was seen in military clothing as well as in clerical clothing. Quirinus was sometimes identified or confused with Mars, as Mars Quirinus.

The myrtle trees were sacred to him. His festival, the Quirinalia, was held on February 17, which was the same day as that of Fornax, goddess of bread making.