Drie Nehelennia-altaren gevonden bij Domburg op Walcheren 1700 - 1715

This engraving depicts three Nehalennia altars found near Domburg. It’s an anonymous work that reflects the rediscovery of Nehalennia, a local goddess, whose worship peaked during the Roman period. This image captures a moment of cultural and religious revival, a reclamation of indigenous identity during a time of external influence. Nehalennia, often depicted with symbols of abundance and navigation, embodies the hopes and fears of a people deeply connected to the sea. The altars, with their Roman inscriptions, are poignant reminders of cultural assimilation and the enduring power of local beliefs. They show a blend of Roman and local traditions. Imagine the emotional weight of unearthing these sacred objects. The rediscovery was not just an archeological find; it was a deeply personal and communal experience, a tangible link to ancestors and a reaffirmation of cultural identity in the face of historical change. The engraving invites us to consider how societies negotiate the complexities of identity and heritage.