The vertebral foramen is an opening in each vertebra of the spine that allows the passage of the spinal cord. It is formed by the vertebral arch and the body of the vertebra, creating a protective canal for the spinal cord as it runs down the vertebral column. Each vertebra has its own vertebral foramen, and when stacked together, they form the vertebral canal. This canal houses the spinal cord and is crucial for the nervous system, as it facilitates communication between the brain and the rest of the body.