Janus is a very important figure in the Roman pantheon. This deity is usually the first called when prayer and cult of Janus at some time been widely distributed in Rome.
Similarly, the term janitor (doorman and key) is taken from the name of the same god.
Features the most striking and memorable of Janus is a two or sometimes four faces has.
In classical art, Janus is described as having two faces facing opposite directions, describing his role as a gatekeeper.
With two faces, he could see on both sides of the door to find out what happened.
But sometimes the Janus statue also shows the four faces. In the full statue of the whole body, Janus is often depicted holding a key in his right hand.
Possible Janus original role as gatekeepers, with other roles are added along with the passing of time.
The relationship between the gate with a new beginning is quite clear that is also interpreted as a change.
Janus often worshiped in big events like a welcoming party for adulthood, marriage, and New Year's party.
Janus is also often associated with war, thanks to the great temple in Rome named Janus Geminus.
According to tradition, the temple doors were left open during periods of war and closed in a period of peace.
Soldiers frequently visit the temple and walk through the door with the hope of obtaining a blessing to be able to perform well on the battlefield.
Janus is also associated with an end of the trip, as well as a door appeared at the beginning and end of the trip.
In some areas, Janus even believed to be able to predict events, thanks to its two faces so that he could look at the same event in front of the back.
In the modern era, Janus is also used as a metaphor to describe the complexity of human nature.
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