What role did the libitinarius play in ancient funerary customs?

The libitinarius played a crucial role in ancient funerary customs, specifically in overseeing all aspects of funeral arrangements. This position was significant in Roman society, which placed a high value on proper burial rites to honor the deceased and ensure their peaceful passage to the afterlife. The libitinarius managed logistics, coordinated the necessary preparations, and often worked closely with family members to ensure that the customs and rituals were appropriately followed.

This role included organizing the transportation of the body, scheduling the ceremonies, and handling the arrangements with various suppliers, such as those who made urns or prepared other items needed for the funeral. By managing these tasks, the libitinarius ensured that all aspects of the funeral were conducted with respect and adherence to societal norms.

Other options, such as creating urns or performing funeral speeches, while relevant to the overall customs, fall under different specialists' purview and are not the primary responsibilities of the libitinarius. The preparation of the body for burial, although important, was typically handled by other professionals, further delineating the specific function of the libitinarius within the funerary process.