nymphaeum

Ancient Greek and Roman sanctuary consecrated to water nymphs. Nymphaea also served as reservoirs and assembly chambers for weddings. The name, originally denoting a natural grotto with springs, later referred to an artificial grotto or building filled with plants, sculpture, fountains, and paintings. Nymphaea existed at Corinth, Antioch, and Constantinople, and remains have been found in Rome, Asia Minor, Syria, and northern Africa.

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