In Ancient Rome, the Vestal Virgins (saceros Vestalis), were the virgin holy female priests of Vesta, the goddess of the hearth. Their primary task was to maintain the sacred fire of Vesta. The Vestal duty brought great honor and afforded greater privileges to women who served in that role. They were the only female priests within the Roman religious system. Due to the nature of their work the term "vestal" is sometimes used to describe someone who maintains an archaic tradition.