Headless statues from the House of the Vestal Virgins in the Roman Forum. Vesta is the goddess of fire. Six virgins kept her flame burning in the temple. The girls, from noble families, were chosen when they were 6–10 years old and served 30 years. They were held in high esteem and were financially secure, but if they lost their virginity, they were buried alive, and if they let the sacred flame go out, they were beaten. While they were free to marry after their term of service, few did.