Statues at the House of the Vestal Virgins - stock photo

The House of the Vestal Virgins (Atrium Vestae) was the residence of the high priestesses of the cult of Vesta (Vestal Virgins). It is believed to have been 3 stories tall with over 50 rooms built around a courtyard containing statues and two lily ponds. Six girls between the ages of 6 - 10 yrs old were appointed by the emperor to serve as Vestals for thirty years. During this time, they were to remain chaste, tend the eternal flame, safeguard sacred objects within the Temple of Vesta, and prepare the grain for sacrifice. This picture shows headless statues on pedestals in an area facing the courtyard. Ivy clinging to a brick wall can be seen on the left while a cloudless, dark blue sky provides a nice contrast with shades of brown from the ruins. There are no people in this picture.