Member of the seviri Augustales

“My name is Lucius Ciltius Cossus; my family has lived in this area “forever”. As you can see from the inscription, my father’s name was Celtillus. He was of Celtic origin, but I am sure you have already guessed that. My three-part name tells you that I am a Roman citizen. I hold the office of sevir Augustalis and belong to a group of men who ensure that the imperial cult is performed both reliably and according to custom. Unlike me, most of my colleagues are freedmen; the office of sevir Augustalis is one of only a few prestigious offices that does not require the holder to have Roman citizenship. You do have to be wealthy, however, to apply for the office!”