Originally there were two Vestal Virgins, but over time the number grew to six women, who would take vows of chastity. The Virgins were considered important to Rome; their major duty was to ensure that the sacred fire never went out and this was considered a life purpose, so these women could never marry or have children.
Unlike many major religions, the Vestal Virgins had respect, privileges and powers. For example, when on their way to public ceremonies in their covered two-wheeled carriage, they had right of way on the road. And when at various public ceremonies, they sat in reserved places of honour. Unlike most women of Rome, they could own property, make a will and vote. They also had the power to free condemned prisoners, simply by touching them.
There was a College of Vestals but the Christian Emperor Theodosius, ordered the college discontinued and the sacred fire extinguished in 394. Interestingly, the Roman Empire did indeed fall into decline after this and finally dissolved on September 4, 476, when the last Emperor, Romulus Augustus was deposed by a Germanic chieftain.
Frederic Leighton, 1st Baron Leighton Wikipedia
