Final answer:
Hestia is the goddess of the hearth and a member of the Olympian family. She is associated with the founding of Rome and her flame is guarded by the Vestal Virgins.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hestia, one of the twelve Olympian gods and goddesses in Greek mythology, is the goddess of the hearth. She is the daughter of Cronus and Rhea, and the sister of Zeus. As a member of the Olympian family, Hestia has an important role in maintaining the household and ensuring the warmth and stability of the home.
In terms of founding colonies, Hestia is associated with the founding of the city of Rome. In Roman mythology, Vesta is the equivalent of Hestia, and she was highly revered as the goddess of the hearth and home.
The priestesses who guard Hestia's flame in Rome are called Vestal Virgins. They were selected from noble Roman families and vowed to remain celibate for thirty years while tending to the sacred hearth of Vesta in the Temple of Vesta. Their role was vital in maintaining the continuity of the flame, which represented the eternal flame of Rome.