Roman mosaic showing eight fish, two squid and eel
Roman mosaic showing eight fish, two squid and an eel. Object dated to the 1st BCE – 1st century CE; it is now in The British Museum. Found in a Roman villa in Cecchignola, Italy.
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Curiosities of ancient Rome
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.
How it was written in ancient Rome?
Ancient Romans used ink, usually made of rubber and soot, to write on papyrus and parchment. They used red ink to better visualize the titles.
Preserved fragment of Latin historical work
A preserved fragment of a Latin historical work (marked as No. 745), on parchment, concerning the Macedonian wars of Rome – De bellis Macedonicis. Dated on the 1st – the beginning of the 2nd century CE. The author of the work is unknown.
How much did gladiatorial fight cost?
Gladiator fights were one of the most popular events for Roman society. The custom of gladiatorial fights derives from the Etruscan custom of worshipping the dead through fighting, rather than sacrificing human beings.
Cleopatra tried to cure Caesar’s baldness
Cleopatra tried to heal baldness of Julius Caesar. The famous Roman physician Galen (2nd century CE) claimed that Cleopatra recommended a paste of burned mice, rags, horse’s teeth for this condition; bear fat; deer marrow and reed stalks. The ingredients were to be used in equal proportions, mixed with honey and rubbed on the head.
Roman-Carthaginian relations before Punic Wars
There is much talk about the Punic Wars that took place between the Roman Republic and Carthage, also known as Kart Hadasht, or the city of Dido. In the years 264-146 BCE, there were three conflicts between these ancient powers which led to Rome defeating and absorbing its rival. Before that, however, both sides were not hostile to each other, and even on the contrary – they were in good relations.
Cato the Younger method to save wealth
Cato the Younger, a Roman politician from the 1st century BCE, fearing losing the enormous wealth he had with him, amounting to seven thousand silver talents, figured out a way to secure his belongings on a long sea voyage. In ancient times, a boat trip across the sea was always risky, especially in winter or in the open sea. However, due to the speed of the ship compared to land transport and the possibility of taking more belongings, many people decided to take such a step.
Cato the Younger was respected in youth
Cato the Younger (95-46 BCE) was known as an outstanding politician of ancient Rome in the 1st century BCE. He was the great-grandson of Cato the Elder and imitated his way of being, which was ideal for him. He belonged to the Stoics, living in harmony with integrity and honesty.
