Obstetrix: The Lugo College of Nursing Recreates the Magic of Childbirth in Ancient Rome at Arde Lucus
Keywords:
Midwifery, Obstetric Nursing, History of NursingAbstract
On 19, 20 and 21 June, Lugo once again became Lucus Augusti for Arde Lucus MMXXVI, one of the city’s most emblematic historical and cultural celebrations. Within this setting, the Illustrious Official College of Nursing of Lugo once again took part with the activity “A Obstetrix: A Matrona dende Roma ata Hoxe” — The Obstetrix: The Midwife from Rome to the Present Day — an outreach initiative launched in 2014 to bring the history of midwifery closer to the public.
Set up in Praza Maior, opposite the Círculo de las Artes, the activity recreated the role of the obstetrix in Ancient Rome, the woman responsible for assisting childbirth, accompanying women during birth and applying knowledge based on experience, observation and tradition. Through a Roman-themed setting, explanatory materials and the participation of midwives, visitors were able to learn how childbirth took place in classical times and how this profession has evolved to the present day.
One of the most notable elements was the recreation of a Roman birthing chair, inspired by historical sources, designed to allow childbirth in an upright position. This piece served as an educational tool to establish a dialogue between ancient practices and current approaches that support mobility and different birthing positions when clinical conditions allow.
The activity also included a display of aromatic and medicinal plants used in classical times in relation to pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, as well as explanations of Roman rites and beliefs associated with birth, protection of the newborn and their integration into the family and community.
Beyond its historical dimension, the initiative highlighted the current role of midwives as specialist nurses in women’s health. Their work includes pregnancy, childbirth, the postpartum period, breastfeeding, affective-sexual education, reproductive health, prevention of gynaecological cancer and support during stages such as menopause.
With this new edition, the Official College of Nursing of Lugo reaffirmed its commitment to health education, historical memory, local culture and the visibility of care as an essential part of social life.
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- 2026-10-02 (2)
- 2026-09-30 (1)
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