In ancient Rome, Vestal Virgins were tasked with keeping vigil over the flame of Vesta, the virgin goddess of the hearth. The flame represented two things: the continuation of Rome as a power in the world and the continuing virginity of Vesta's priestesses. But what was life really like for these Vestal Virgins? Peta Greenfield goes back in time to find out. [Directed by Kozmonot Animation Studio, narrated by Susan Zimmerman, music by Wonder Boy Audio].

Peta Greenfield: Who were the Vestal Virgins, and what was their job?

Who were the Vestal Virgins, and what was their job?

In ancient Rome, being chosen as a Vestal Virgin was a high honor, yet it bore the weight of Rome's safety on purity and ritual.

The extinguishing of Vesta's flame, a symbol of Rome's might and the Vestals' purity, could mean death, even for the innocent.

Life as a Vestal Virgin was a blend of privilege and peril, balancing between serving the gods and the ever-present threat of sacrifice.