Dedicated to the goddess Vesta, patroness of hearth and home, whose sacred fire represented security and stability for Rome and the State, the House of Vesta was connected to the Temple of Vesta. The two buildings formed a single space called Atrium Vestae. The Vestals (the only female priestesses in Roman society) guarded the goddess’ sacred fire and made sure it never went out. They worked in the Temple and lived in the House throughout the long years of their service to the goddess.