Given the widely accepted theory that the murals portray aspects of the cult of Bacchus, some propose that the frescoed room itself was used to conduct initiations and other rituals, although the exact use of this room is heavily debated. Molly Swetnam-Burland has argued against this interpretation of the room, stating that that when compared to other depictions of Bacchus in religious contexts around Pompeii, the Bacchus in these frescoes is different in key aspects, demonstrating that this is not a religious space.
Given the widely accepted view that the murals portray elements of the cult of Bacchus, some propose that the room itself was utilized for ritual purposes, although the precise function of this room is subject to debate. Molly Swetnam-Burland has challenged this interpretation, suggesting that the Bacchus in these frescoes exhibits unique features compared to other depictions of Bacchus in Pompeii's religious contexts.