Musical Presence in the Cults of Mater Magna and Attis. Evidence from Trieste and Aquileia

Abstract Archaeological, iconographic and epigraphic evidence from Trieste and Aquileia provides valuable insights into the musical practices associated with the cults of Mater Magna and Attis in northeastern Italy. In Trieste, an inscription referring to a cymba- listria suggests the crucial role of music in the goddess’ worship. In Aquileia, artefacts such as two bronze cymbals and a figurine plausibly identified as Attis with cymbals offer insights into ritual sounds. This study investigates the adaptation of these Eastern cults within the regional context by highlighting iconographic and epigraphic data with potential implications for musical practices.