What structure served as a multipurpose building for residences in ancient Rome, specifically in Pompeii?

The insula served as a multipurpose building for residences in ancient Rome, particularly in Pompeii. These structures were typically apartment complexes that housed multiple families and were common in urban areas where space was limited. Insulae were built to accommodate the city's growing population, often rising several stories high to maximize the use of available land. They provided living quarters for lower- and middle-class citizens, with shops or workshops on the ground floor, allowing for a blend of residential and commercial use.

In contrast, other structures like the domus were more associated with wealthy families and were designed as single-family homes, featuring private spaces and courtyards. The aula typically refers to a larger room or hall, often within a domus or public building, while the taberna was a shop or workshop that could operate as a standalone business, often part of an insula. This distinctive function of the insula highlights its importance in the daily life and urban organization of Pompeii.