What is the Latin term for a garden in the context of ancient Roman architecture?

The Latin term "hortus" refers specifically to a garden and is an essential part of ancient Roman architecture. In Roman domestic settings, the hortus was often an integral feature of the villa, where it served both functional and aesthetic purposes. These gardens could include a variety of plants, such as herbs, vegetables, and ornamental flowers, and were designed to enhance the living environment and provide food for the household.

The term is significant in understanding Roman cultural practices, as gardens played a role in social life, leisure activities, and even philosophy, reflecting the Roman value placed on nature and beauty. Various archaeological sites, including Pompeii and Herculaneum, have revealed well-preserved examples of horti, demonstrating their importance in the domestic architecture of the time.