vestibulums

Vestibulums refers to the plural form of vestibulum, a Latin term meaning "little court" or "entrance hall." In classical Roman architecture, a vestibulum was an open area or ante-chamber located between the street and the main entrance of a house or a public building. It served as a transitional space, offering privacy to the interior and acting as a reception area for visitors.

The size and elaborateness of a vestibulum could vary significantly depending on the wealth and status of the owner and the importance of the building. In wealthy private homes, the vestibulum might be a relatively small, unadorned space. However, in more opulent residences, it could be a more substantial area, sometimes decorated with frescoes or mosaics, and might even contain statues or fountains.

In public buildings, such as basilicas or temples, the vestibulum often served as a forecourt or an entrance hall. It provided a space for people to gather before entering the main body of the structure. The vestibulum's function was primarily practical, offering a degree of shelter from the elements and a buffer zone between the public and private realms. This architectural feature was common throughout the Roman Empire and influenced later architectural designs in various cultures.