templum
Templum is a term from ancient Roman religion that denotes a sacred space set apart for divine observation and ritual. In practice, a templum could be a defined area on the ground, marked by boundaries and meant for the reception and interpretation of omens, or a celestial region imagined for the appearance of signs. The boundaries and shape of the templum were established by officials such as augurs or magistrates.
In auspicial practice, the templum provided a frame within which signs were read. Within this space, observers
Etymology and evolution: templum derives from Latin for a space set apart. In classical usage, it primarily
Scholarly note: the templum figure into discussions of Roman ritual, auspices, and early temple architecture, and