Which area of the Roman house was typically used for welcoming guests?

The atrium was a central part of a Roman house, often serving as the main reception area for welcoming guests. This architectural space was typically spacious and open, providing an impressive entrance that set the tone for social interactions. The atrium often featured a compluvium, an opening in the roof that allowed natural light and air to enter, and it was usually adorned with decorative elements such as art, plants, and sometimes even a water feature, enhancing its role as a welcoming area.

While the dining room is where meals would be shared, and the vestibulum serves as a transitional space leading into the house, these areas were not primarily designed for the reception of guests. The fauces, or the narrow passageway leading into the atrium, also does not fulfill the role of a primary space for welcoming significant gatherings. Thus, the atrium distinctly stands out as the focal point for hospitality in a Roman household.