Lararium

Shrines to Household Gods

“…one of the most distinctive and easily recognisable features of Pompeian houses is shrines that we now call by the Latin name Lararium, shrine of the Lares or household gods..”

Mary Beard. Pompeii

I remember visiting Butser Ancient Farm’s Roman villa many years ago, before it was completely finished and being struck, not only by the grandeur of the main house, with its red walls and intricate frescos, but also by the simplicity of the kitchen. It was a functional space, easily recognisable to the modern eye with its hearth, ovens and working spaces, the notable exception was the household altar set into the wall. The shrine stood alone and apart from the rustic appearance of the the rest of the room. The guide told us the altar was dedicated to Cares, goddess of the harvest, agriculture and motherly relationships. Beneath her shrine was the bread making area and oven, which seemed fitting.

The idea of a household shrine is not specific to Roman culture or the Empire, but that one that stayed with me, I liked the idea of a dedicated spiritual space within the domestic sphere of the kitchen, the heart of the house. In my own practice I have several Lararium throughout my house, including one in my kitchen which is a place of offering and dedication to my local and specific vaettir (spirits) who protect both my house and my family.

On my recent visit to Pompeii, I specifically looked for Lararium, in the personal houses of the victims of the tragedy. Most are not visible anymore, due to the destruction and devastating nature of catastrophe that befell the city, but as I wandered through the quieter areas, inside what would have been peoples domestic areas, I could imagine coming across a small altar or shrine incorporated into a wall, likely with figures and offerings, decorated and visual. A highly personal and sacred space for personal devotion.

Imagining this familiar activity - worship, and maybe even prayer - which is still an ongoing practice in today’s society - made the everyday occupants of Pompeii, the people who lived, ate and breathed here nearly two thousand years ago, alive again, becoming relatable and truly real to me at that moment.

I would be interested in hearing about your own household shrines, if you have them.

All images and text are ©Thea Prothero.