Remarks on the privileges of Vesta Virgins

Abstract

The most important symbols of the Roman state were undoubtedly the Vestal Virgins. They embodied the continuity of the res publica for centuries. As the guardians of the eternal flame throughout Roman history, they managed to secure a very high social position. Their social and sacred role was recognised and exploited by Roman political life. The best example of this was Augustus, who regarded the ancient priestly order as an important pillar of his own system. Through them, the princeps sought to demonstrate that the Imperium Romanum could recover from a bloody civil war and uphold the ideal that had already endured for 700 years.