Roman mythology

Vulcan, the Roman god of fire, especially destructive fire, and craftsmanship.
His forge is located beneath Mount Etna. It is here that he, together with his
helpers, forges weapons for gods and heroes. Vulcanus is closely associated with
Bona Dea with whom he shared the Volcanalia, observed on August 23rd. This
festival took place during the height of the Mediterranean drought and the
period of highest risk of fire. On the banks of the river Tiber, fires were
lighted on which living fish were sacrificed. His temples were usually located
outside the cities, due to the dangerous nature of fire. In 215 B.C.E. his
temple on the Circus Flaminius was inaugurated. In Ostia he was the chief god as
the protector against fire in the grain storages. He is identified with the
Greek Hephaestus.