Roman villas were large country houses built by wealthy Romans during the Roman Empire. These villas served as luxurious retreats from city life and often included gardens, baths, and spacious living areas. They were designed to showcase the owner's wealth and status, featuring intricate mosaics and frescoes. Typically located in rural areas, Roman villas were also functional, with spaces for farming and producing goods. Some villas were self-sufficient, providing food and resources for the family and their servants. The design of these villas influenced later European architecture, leaving a lasting legacy in Western civilization.