April 23

Commissioned by the Roman state in 215 BC, this temple on Capitoline Hill was dedicated to Venus Erycina following a devastating loss at Lake Trasimene during the Second Punic War. The shrine symbolized hope and divine favor, reinforcing public morale as Rome faced Hannibal’s forces. Its architectural grandeur and strategic location underscored Roman religious devotion and civic unity. Annual festivals and rituals held at the temple strengthened the cult of Venus and celebrated Rome’s resilience. Today, it stands as a testament to ancient Roman religion and statecraft.

On April 23, 1724, Johann Sebastian Bach led the first performance of his cantata Du Hirte Israel, höre, BWV 104, at the Thomaskirche in Leipzig. The work, part of Bach’s church cantata cycle, vividly portrays the biblical image of Christ as the Good Shepherd. Scored for soloists, choir, and orchestra, the cantata features lyrical oboe passages and expressive vocal lines. Bach’s use of musical motifs and pastoral elements creates an immersive depiction of divine guidance and care. This premiere contributed to Bach's reputation as a master of sacred music and influenced generations of composers in the Baroque era.