Curiosities of ancient Rome (Other)

Although medieval and ancient alchemy shares many common elements, it is difficult to find a clear continuity between the Greco-Roman and medieval traditions. One of the main differences is that the first one was based mainly on philosophical subjects and hermeticism, while the second one valued higher the experimental contact with the surrounding matter. However, was this really the case? What do we owe to the Greco-Roman alchemists? What does alchemy have to do with the monetary unification of Emperor Diocletian? The answer is in the article below.

According to the message of Titus Calpurnius Siculus, a Roman poet from the 3rd century CE, in ancient Rome, in the arenas of amphitheatres, bears were supposed to appear hunting for seals. The writer specifically mentions here an event during the reign of Emperor Nero (54-68 CE).

For nearly 50 years, a couple from New York City used an ancient Roman mosaic as a coffee table. The amazing artefact dates back to the middle of the 1st century CE.

Eagles, to this day, arouse respect and respect not only among animals but also people. The pride and strength of these birds were already in ancient times, and they themselves became the symbol of Roman legions.

Pliny the Elder in his preserved work “Natural History” left us a lot of information about various species of animals as well as creatures that were born in the minds of people. A great example of the latter group is the famous phoenix.

It is very difficult to overestimate the influence of the Roman Empire on the history of the world. In addition to architecture, language, alphabet, art, various technologies, a certain political model, ideology, is very important, recognizing Rome as a city that is given power over the whole world. Rome, however, in the 5th century CE collapsed… but the idea has survived and is still used successfully in some countries to this day.

Pantheon in the water, after the flood of the Tiber. Photo taken in 1870.