What was the reception room of a Roman house called?

The reception room of a Roman house is referred to as the atrium. This central space serves as the focal point of a Roman domus (house) where guests could be welcomed and various activities took place. The atrium typically featured an opening in the roof (the compluvium) that allowed light and rainwater to enter, which was collected in a basin (the impluvium) in the floor below. This design facilitated ventilation and illuminated the room while also providing a practical method for collecting water.

The function of the atrium as a space for receiving guests, holding social gatherings, and often displaying family portraits and important artifacts underscores its significance in Roman domestic architecture and lifestyle. This area was not just a passage but a well-defined room meant for social interaction and showcasing the status of the household.

The other terms refer to different parts of a Roman house. The tablinum, for example, was a study or office space, often located at the rear of the atrium. The vestibulum served as an entrance or hallway leading to the atrium, while the fauces referred to narrow corridors or passages that connected various parts of the house. Each of these areas played a specific role in the overall design and function of a Roman housing structure