Vestal Virgins
Treasurer - Nora Donovan
The Vestal Virgins were the priestesses of the goddess Vesta, goddess of the hearth (in Greek, Hestia).
They were highly respected and were the only full time clergy in Rome. There were 4 to 6 Vestal Virgins at a time and were elected to this position as children by the pontifex maximus. They carried out their duties for 30 years. During this time they had to take care of the fire in the Temple of Vesta and keep their vow of chastity, among other general tasks like seeing to the upkeep of the
harsh punishments, in many ways, it was a big step up from what most Roman women had. They could own their own property and handle their assets. They were not bidden to their father’s wishes. They were important, influential figures until the rise of Christianity. But their independence and freedom in a highly patriarchal world is something to be respected to this day.
temple. They also led the public events during Vestalia, which was a festival honoring Vesta in the beginning of June. They made the bread and herbs for other religious feast days. If they failed to complete these tasks, they could be beaten. A much worse fate awaited anyone who broke their celibacy vow. Since Vestal Virgin blood could not be spilled, they were instead buried alive. Despite the
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