The patron spirits of the family were called Lari. Their common role was to care for the family, the household and food. The main protective deity of the family was the lar familiaris. He represented the founder of the family and was at the head of the group of family guardian spirits. Over time, he became associated with the cult of dead ancestors and symbolised their inherited power.

At first, the lar was depicted as a dog, symbolising the notion of loyalty and devotion, and later as a bronze figure of a young man. These figurines were kept in larari, small decorative cabinets, niches or small altars located by the fireplace or entrance to the home.

They thanked the Lari every day, giving them food, wine, incense and flowers. On special occasions, their statues were decorated with flower wreaths.

Bronze statue of Apollo.

4th century, Ančnik's hillfort.