sacrarium : sa-KRAH-ri-um

(Latin; pl. sacraria: sacred space or shrine). Roman theatres often incorporated religious elements into their architectural design, as theatrical performances had sacred origins and were typically held during religious festivals. A small shrine or sacred space within or adjacent to the theatre complex is the sacrarium. These sacred areas housed statues of deities, particularly those associated with drama such as Dionysus/Bacchus, or honored the patron gods of the city. The sacrarium served both as a place for pre-performance rituals and offerings, and as a permanent reminder of the divine connection between theatrical art and religious worship in Roman society.