Vestal Virgin

In Ancient Rome, the Vestal Virgins (sacerdotes vestales), were the virgin holy priestesses of Vesta, the goddess of the hearth. Their primary task was to maintain the sacred fire of Vesta. The Vestal duty brought great honor and afforded greater privileges to women who served in that role.

Related Topics:
Ancient Rome - Holy - Priest - Vesta - Goddess - Hearth - Sacred fire of Vesta

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The infamous Tarpeia, daughter of Spurius Tarpeius, was a traitorous Vestal Virgin. Rhea Sylvia, who was raped by Mars and conceived Romulus and Remus, and Tuccia, whose chastity was questioned, were sometimes accounted prototypes of Vestal Virgins.

Related Topics:
Tarpeia - Spurius Tarpeius - Rhea Sylvia - Mars - Romulus and Remus - Tuccia - Chastity

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The discovery of a "House of the Vestals" in Pompeii made the Vestal Virgins a popular subject in the 1700s and 1800s.

Related Topics:
Pompeii - 1700s - 1800s

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The objects of the cult were essentially the hearth fire and pure water drawn into a clay vase.

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