bidental

In ancient Roman religion, a Bidental was a sacred shrine erected on the spot where lightning had struck. Creation Any remains and scorched earth at the spot were to be burned in a hole at the location by priests called bidentales. Any person killed by the bolt was to be buried in the earth where the lightning hit, as opposed to traditional cremation. A puteal (wellhead), one or sometimes more, was then placed on the spot of burned earth. In order to further consecrate the site, the officiant would sacrifice a two-year-old sheep (called a bidens). Finally, an altar was built, and surrounded by a wall or fence to keep any trespassers away. Occasionally when falling into a state of decay, Bidentals would be repaired or reconstructed. Significance Considered sacred space, a Bidental was not to be touched, trod upon, or even looked at after completion.