Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
A lararium is a small shrine or altar found in ancient Roman homes dedicated to the household gods, known as lares. It was used for daily offerings and prayers to ensure the well-being and protection of the family.
Related terms
Lares: These were the specific household gods worshipped at the lararium, believed to protect and watch over the family.
Vesta: The goddess of hearth and home, often depicted in lararia alongside the lares.
Penates: Another group of deities associated with protecting the pantry and food supply, also commonly included in lararia.