In Ancient Rome, the Vestal Virgins achieved power most women were denied – but at great cost
- Written by Lily Moore, PhD Candidate in Classics and Archaeology, The University of Melbourne
Vasilii L/ShutterstockYou might have heard of a group of women in Ancient Rome known as the “Vestal Virgins”. These female virginal guardians of the sacred flame of Rome could be buried alive for breaking their vows of chastity. Sure, this is a terrible way to go. But! They had power, prestige, privilege, popularity! So, who were these...

















