Naria was a goddess inGallo-Roman religion who appears to have been venerated only in what is now the western part ofSwitzerland. She was only mentioned twice in aGallo-Roman context, and her nature and responsibilities remain obscure.[1]
The nameNaria is thought to originate from theGaulishnertos, strength. The epithetNousantia could be a contraction ofnauson, ship, andanatia, soul.[2]
Nariais mentioned only twice in known inscriptions from theGallo-Roman era.
One, on a stone altar fromCressier, readsNariae Novsantiae T. Frontin. Hibernvs V.S.L.M,[3] that is: "To Naria Nousantia, Titus Frontinius Hibernus willingly and deservedly fulfilled his vow". The epithet "Nousantia" is otherwise unknown.[4]
The other inscription is on the base of a statuette from theMuri statuette group. That inscription,Deae Nariae Reg(io) Arvre(nsis) Cvr(ante) Feroc(e) L(iberto),[5] translates as: "TheAar area association dedicated this to the goddess Naria; thefreedman Ferox served ascurator."
The Muri statuette is also the only known depiction of Naria. It shows her in a long-sleeved dress and with adiadem in her hair. The hands which held her divine attributes are missing. This depiction of Naria follows a generic style then used in Italy mostly for depictions of the goddess of luck,Fortuna. This indicates that Naria might also have been conceived of as a goddess of good luck and blessings.[1]
