Vestal Virgin
In ancient Roman religion, the Vestals or Vestal Virgins (Vestales, singular Vestalis), were priestesses of Vesta, goddess of the hearth. The College of the Vestals and its well-being was regarded as fundamental to the continuance and security of Rome. They cultivated the sacred fire that was not allowed to go out. The Vestals were freed of the usual social obligations to marry and bear children, and took a vow of chastity in order to devote themselves to the study and correct observance of state rituals that were off-limits to the male colleges of priests.
Read more about Vestal Virgin: History, Number of Vestals, Terms of Service, House of The Vestals, Vestal Festivals, Clothing, Vestals in Western Art
Famous quotes containing the word virgin:
“This is the month, and this the happy morn,
Wherein the Son of heav’n’s eternal King,
Of wedded Maid and Virgin Mother born,
Our great redemption from above did bring.”
—John Milton (1608–1674)