A lararium was a household shrine in a Roman home, typically taking the form of a small altar, raised platform, or shelf. It was dedicated to the Lares, the protective household gods believed to watch over the family’s well-being and daily life.
The shrine would often contain small statues or figurines of the Lares, along with offerings such as food, wine, or incense. The lararium was usually placed in a prominent location, such as the atrium or near the hearth, where daily prayers and rituals were conducted to honor the gods and seek their protection.
In the ruins of Pompeii, many homes still have lararia intact, providing insight into Roman domestic religious practices. Some lararia are painted with frescoes depicting the Lares and other deities, reflecting the importance of household worship in Roman culture.
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