Aedes (Roman)

To the Romans an "aedes" was a building of religious significance, normally translated as temple or chapel. It generally differed from the more familiar term "templum" in that an "aedes" was a distinct structure whereas a "templum" often referred to a religious complex. The two terms are however used interchangeably by some sources especially towards the end of the empire.

Large Roman forts would contain an "aedes" which contained the legion's colours and standard, or banner, along with an image of the deified emperor. Built from stone it served as the military chapel for worship of the princeps and the legion itself. The "aedes" was also the legion's treasury holding pay, petty cash and individuals' savings stored there, sometimes in a strong room beneath the chapel.