Curiosities of ancient Rome (Monuments)
The world of ancient Romans abounded in a number of amazing curiosities and information. The source of knowledge about the life of the Romans are mainly works left to us by ancient writers or discoveries. The Romans left behind a lot of strange information and facts that are sometimes hard to believe.
Roman wells in Croatia
On the island of Pag in Croatia, on the outskirts of the town of Kolan, there are old wells dating back to Roman times. They were part of the Roman aqueduct leading to the city of Caska. The wells guaranteed a source of clean water for the local community.
Villa Romana del Casale – Roman luxury villa in Sicily
In Sicily, about 5 km from the city of Piazza Armerina, are the remains of a luxurious Roman villa, Villa Romana del Casale. This place is unusual because many beautiful mosaics have been preserved. The monument has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Madauros – Roman city in Algeria
Madauros is a former Roman city which remains are not far from the modern Algerian city – M’daourouch. The Roman writer Apuleius was born in this city.
Well-preserved Roman gate in Lugo
A well-preserved Roman gate in Lugo (Spain). This city is the only centre in the world that is surrounded by completely intact Roman walls from the 3rd century CE.
Mons Claudianus – Roman quarry in Egypt
“Mount of Claudius” (Mons Claudianus) was a Roman quarry in the eastern desert of Egypt. This place owes its name to Emperor Claudius, who started mining as first. Grey granite (granodiorite), extremely valuable in ancient Rome, was mined there. The mine had its own garrison, shelters for civilians and workers or a supply and transport centre.
Unique amphitheater in El Jem
Roman amphitheater in El Jem (ancient city of Thysdrus, northern Tunisia) is one of the best-preserved buildings of this type from the times of the Roman Empire. It was built in the years 230-238 CE, and the initiative to create the building probably came from the proconsul and the later emperor Gordian I. Since 1979, the building has been on the UNESCO list of protected monuments.
Roman amphitheater in Verona
Roman amphitheatre in Verona (north-east Italy) was built in 30 CE, outside the ancient city walls. The facility could accommodate up to 30,000 people and is an example of a beautifully preserved Roman monument.