The House of the Vestal Virgins is now open for inspection by tourists visiting the Roman Forum, where once it could only be observed from afar.
In ancient Rome, the structure was home to priestesses serving the cult of the goddess Vesta. The building, with its spacious courtyard, is located just behind the Temple of Vesta.
The house, which was re-built more than once during centuries of active use, was previously off limits to visitors. Officials opened a new route through the ruins on Thursday.
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