Skip to main content

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

9,670,635 Views

9,443 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

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.

Think 5 Multiple Choice &
3 Open Answer Questions Dig Deeper Learn More Discuss 1 Guided Discussion &1 Open Discussion

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Peta Greenfield
  • Director Tolga Yıldız, Serin İnan, Kozmonot Animation Studio
  • Art Director Tolga Yıldız
  • Producer Serin İnan
  • Illustrator Pelin Maravent
  • Character Designer Pelin Maravent
  • Animator Tuncay Çetin
  • Content Producer Gerta Xhelo
  • Sound Designer Stephen Eugene Larosa
  • Composer Stephen Eugene Larosa
  • Associate Producer Jessica Ruby
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Narrator Susan Zimmerman

More from The World's People and Places