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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.

Sculpture of Roman general

Sculpture of a Roman general from the 2nd century CE, made of white marble. The figure depicted was holding in his left hand a shield decorated with the image of a Gorgon / Medusa.

Sculpture of Roman general

Ear of Dionysius

In the Archaeological Park of the Neapolis in Syracuse there is the so-called “Ear of Dionysius”, which was part of an ancient quarry. The 23-meter-high entrance to the cave is shaped like a human ear.

Ear of Dionysius

What was Marcus Tullius Cicero really like?

Marcus Tullius Cicero is considered a great politician, thinker, philosopher, lawyer, and above all a speaker and defender. His main occupation was defence and prosecution before Roman courts. Without even realizing it, many repeat his sayings or famous parems, and young lawyers learn to speak from his speeches.

Cicero

Quintessence of apotheosis of Roman emperors – most significant visualization of power of Roman Empire right next to triumph

Paul Zanker in his book “Apoteoza cesarzy rzymskich. Rytuał i przestrzeń miejska” accurately describes the ritual of apotheosis, also known as consecratio. At the same time, he comes to interesting general conclusions, comparing the apotheosis with contemporary mass events, such as the Oktoberfest. He explains that since the dawn of time, man has preferred to be in a community with certain rules and unique values. A Roman watching the solemn “Ascension” of the Emperor felt proud, a Pole who participated in the Independence March celebrations was proud.

Roman work of art made of sardonyx, showing the apotheosis of Emperor Claudius. Dated to the 1st century CE

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