What is the entrance lobby of a Roman house, located between the street and the front door, called?

The correct term for the entrance lobby of a Roman house, positioned between the street and the main door, is indeed the "vestibulum." This area served as a transitional space that provided a buffer between the public street and the private interior of the home.

In Roman architecture, the vestibulum is designed to be an outer lobby that can accommodate guests before they enter the more personal areas of the house, such as the atrium. It not only allows for the first impression of the house but also often includes practical features like hooks for cloaks and space to greet visitors.

Understanding the vestibulum's role highlights the importance of transition spaces in Roman domestic architecture, focusing on both functional and aesthetic elements that separate public and private life. This is a critical aspect of Roman residential design that reflects their values of hospitality and family privacy.