In a post shared on his official Facebook page, Khaled al-Haddar, Professor of Archaeology at the University of Benghazi, explained that January 1st was not originally the start of the year in ancient Rome. Historically, the calendar began in March, which explains why months like September and December retain names derived from their former numerical positions (seventh and tenth), aligning only with a March-based system.
The shift occurred in 153 BC for administrative and military reasons, as consuls began their terms earlier to facilitate military preparations. This date was later solidified by Julius Caesar during his landmark calendar reforms in 46 BC.
Al-Haddar noted that January is named after Janus, the god of beginnings and endings, typically depicted with two faces—one looking back at the past and the other toward the future. Romans marked the occasion by offering sacrifices and exchanging small, symbolic gifts known as strenae, such as honey, figs, and coins, to invite prosperity. They also believed that beginning the year with productive activity would ensure success for the months to follow.
While the day held religious and social significance, Al-Haddar pointed out its ties to imperial politics and military history. Ultimately, the Roman New Year functioned as a “temporal threshold,” merging administrative order with ritual and social obligation, reflecting the essence of Roman religion focused on performing the right actions at the appointed time.
