Curiosities of ancient Rome

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The world of the ancient Romans was rich in extraordinary, and sometimes even surprising, facts. We draw our knowledge of Roman daily life, customs, and mentality primarily from works left by ancient writers and historians. It is thanks to them that we discover information that is astonishing today – sometimes even hard to believe. Below are some interesting facts that reveal a lesser-known and less obvious side of the Roman world.

I encourage you to submit your own suggestions and to report any corrections or inaccuracies.

Pantheon in water in 1870

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

Roman wooden tablet from Vindolanda (No. 892)

Roman wooden tablet from Vindolanda (northern England) with the text of the message preserved. A plate was registered under the number 892. In ancient Rome, this type of plates were covered with wax and written…Więcej

Roman saddle with preserved horns

Roman saddle with preserved horns, made of bronze. The object is dated to the 1st century CE and is on display at the Dominikanermuseum Rottweil in Germany. The horns were found at Fort I and…Więcej

Cato and women

In “The Life of Cato Younger” Plutarch we learn a lot about the private life of Cato. The work also accidentally paints a picture of how conservative Romans perceived the role of women in society.…Więcej

Relief showing crowned emperor Caracalla

Relief showing Emperor Caracalla crowned by Julia Domna (depicted as Victoria). The object dates from the beginning of the 3rd century CE; comes from Roman Syria. The object is located in the National Museum in…Więcej

Relief showing praetorians

Relief showing praetorians. The artifact was once part of the Claudius arch in Rome, which was built in honor of the victories of the emperor in Britain. It is located in The British Museum.Więcej

Caesar’s reforms and map of contemporary Europe

Gaius Julius Caesar introduced many reforms, the effects of which are still felt today. Many people will think of the calendar at this point, but no less important was the decision to grant citizenship to…Więcej

Roman gold coin of Vespasian

Roman gold coin (aureus) showing Emperor Vespasian on one side and the Temple of Vesta with four columns and three statues on the other. As suggested by researchers, the depiction of the temple may be…Więcej

Ancient oil lamps from Marsala

Ancient oil lamps discovered in the area of ancient Marsalia (Lilybaeum). Objects dated to the 1st BCE – 1st century CE. The objects were probably used for religious purposes; located in the Parco Archeologico di…Więcej

Ruins of Roman fort built into contemporary building

Ruins of a Roman fort built into a contemporary building in Regensburg, Germany. Castra Regina was established in 179 CE; the III Legio Italica was stationed here.Więcej

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