Religion in Bastia

Bastia is religious in a way similar to Anaxas - with a great show of loyalty and adoration to the gods. Bastian temples tend to be elegant, ornate and numerous. The largest temples are generally to Hurte, although the entire circle is almost always represented in some fashion, and most Bastians conduct their worship at Hurte’s temples. White marble is considered the most sacred material to use in the construction of Hurte’s temples, and gold and tiger’s eyes stones are the most popular materials for decoration.

There are various temples to the rest of the circle as well in most Bastian cities; these tend to be smaller and to have less regular services, but are still often expensively decorated and maintained. Most galdori consider temple services a social as well as a religious occasion, and there are high social standards around what one wears to services; one is expected to have made an effort to beautify oneself. Donations to the temples are also a common (public) way of showing one’s devotion to the gods.

Religious Rituals

Important religious rituals in Bastian galdori life include: the Makarios di Hurte, or Blessing of Hurte, conducted for a child when they are about two seasons old to pray for their beauty, etc.; ritual temple baths which are a key part of engagement ceremonies; and often - although not universally - one’s wedding.

Human Worship Practices

The human population of Bastia generally pays tribute to the gods in the privacy of their own homes; Vitanism is popular among Bastian humans, although there are also many who worship Hurte and the Circle. Small shrines to Hurte are popular among humans, often decorated with small tiger figurines; keeping a bowl of flower petals or a flower in water is a sign of devotion to Hurte among wealthier humans.

Death and Burial

Death is handled by the Cadus Barr, the Gravekeepers, who inter bodies near subterranean phasmonia.