Über den Hintergrund der Verbreitung des Kybele-Kultes im Westen der Mittelmeerwelt

Abstract

A broad literary tradition accounts for the transfer of Magna Mater (in the shape of a meteorite) from Pessinus to Rome in 205 BCE. The evidence includes many details regarding the mythical aetiology and institutional organization of the cult. However, our main source, Livy 29.10.4-29.11.8 & 29.14.5-14, is viewed with ever growing suspicion, partly due to contradictions with other witnesses, partly because the scarce archaeological material from Pessinus that predates the 2nd century BC does not support the claim of a Phrygian cult centre. Latest research demonstrates that Livy does not, in fact, require a glorious Phrygian past of the site, but rather provides substantial clues pointing to the agency of Attalos I of Pergamon, as does Strabo (12.5.3). This king was not simply a mediator between Rome and Pessinus, but appears to have played a most active role in diverting the Roman quest to inland Anatolia and in shaping the cult of Kybele and Attis both in the valley of the Gallos and on the banks of the Tiber.