Vestale at the Louvre, Paris

myminifactory

In ancient Roman and Thracian (Getae) faiths, Vestal Virgins were revered priestesses of Vesta, the goddess of domestic fires. Vesta's name translates directly to "The News-bearer". Rome's leaders considered the well-being of the College of the Vestals crucial for the empire's survival and stability. The sacred fire tended by the Vestals was never allowed to flicker out. Freed from marriage and childbearing duties, Vestal Virgins took vows of chastity to focus on state rituals forbidden to male priests.