Cella

Definition

The cella is the inner chamber of a temple in ancient Roman architecture, typically housing the statue of the deity to whom the temple is dedicated. This central space was crucial as it represented the dwelling place of the god, emphasizing the temple's role as a sacred site for worship and religious ceremonies. The design and layout of the cella reflected the importance of the deity and were often adorned with elaborate decorations to enhance its sanctity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The cella was usually designed as a large, rectangular room that served as the focal point of temple activities and rituals.
2. In many temples, such as the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus, the cella was divided into sections for different deities or aspects of worship.
3. The cella's design often included high ceilings and large doors to allow for processions and gatherings during religious festivals.
4. Architecturally, the cella influenced later designs in Christian churches, with similarities in the arrangement of altars and sanctuaries.
5. The decoration within the cella, including frescoes and sculptures, played a vital role in conveying the mythology and attributes of the deity honored there.

Review Questions

• How did the design of the cella reflect the religious beliefs of ancient Romans?
  • The design of the cella was integral to Roman religious beliefs as it served as the physical manifestation of a deity's presence on earth. The grand scale and elaborate decorations within the cella underscored its sanctity, while its layout facilitated rituals that connected worshippers with their gods. This spatial arrangement not only emphasized divine presence but also highlighted the importance of community engagement in religious practices.
• Discuss how the function of the cella in Roman temples compares to similar features in later religious structures.
  • The function of the cella in Roman temples can be compared to sanctuaries and altars in later religious structures, such as Christian churches. Both serve as central spaces where divine presence is honored and rituals are performed. However, while Roman temples focused on multiple deities with distinct cult statues within their cells, Christian churches centralized worship around a single altar, reflecting a shift in monotheistic practices and community focus in religious observance.
• Evaluate the significance of the cella within Etruscan influence on Roman religious architecture and practice.
  • The significance of the cella within Etruscan influence on Roman religious architecture lies in its role as a central component reflecting both cultural adaptation and continuity. Etruscan temples often featured prominent cells designed for divine worship that inspired Roman architectural practices. As Rome expanded, it absorbed Etruscan elements into its own religion, using the concept of the cella to foster community identity and consolidate political power through shared religious experiences, ultimately shaping Roman identity in relation to its divine patrons.

Related terms

temple: A structure dedicated to the worship of gods, typically featuring a cella where the deity's statue resides.

cult statue: A statue representing a deity, which was placed in the cella of a temple for worship.

peristyle: A colonnade surrounding a building or enclosing a courtyard, commonly found in temples to enhance their architectural grandeur.