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.

Roman thermae in Bath

Roman thermae in Bath, England, known as Thermae Aquae Sulis, was an important center of social life in ancient times. It was created around 60 CE, around natural thermal springs that the Romans considered sacred,…Więcej

Roman religious mask

Roman religious mask, which was probably worn by a priest during religious processions. The object was discovered in a drain in the Roman baths in Bath (England).Więcej

Ancient Roman stone with inscription

An ancient Roman stone with an inscription was discovered in Bath (England). As it turns out, the object refers to the practice of haruspices, who used to tell fortunes from the entrails of animals. The…Więcej

Trajan at wall in London

Under the so-called “London Wall”, which dates back to Roman times, there is a sculpture of Emperor Trajan (reigned 98-117 CE). The sculpture was made of bronze in the 20th century. It is a copy…Więcej

Aphrodite (Venus) on Roman sculpture

Aphrodite (Venus) on a Roman sculpture that is a replica (2nd century CE) of an original from Greek times. The object is located in the National Archaeological Museum of Naples (Italy).Więcej

Sculpture showing standing lion

Sculpture showing a standing lion; made of limestone. The Roman object dates back to the imperial period; discovered in northern Italy. The artifact is located in the National Archaeological Museum of Naples.Więcej

Aius Locutius – heavenly voice

Aius Locutius is a mysterious deity of unknown origin and appearance. In Roman mythology, it appears only once and in the form of a voice. Etymology of the name The meaning of the name Aius…Więcej

Plutarch’s mention of Domitian

“Lives” are one of the most fascinating works of antiquity. Its author, Plutarch of Chaeronea (ca. 46 – ca. 120 CE), compiles the profiles of famous Greeks and Romans. When describing these characters, he focuses…Więcej

Griffin on Roman fresco

Roman fresco from the Villa of the Mysteries in Pompeii, showing a griffin. The scene shows a member of the Arimaspa people stealing gold from a griffin. The object dates back to the mid-1st century…Więcej

Roman glass vessel in shape of gladiator’s helmet

Roman glass vessel in the shape of a gladiator’s helmet. The object was made in the Rhineland in the 3rd century CE. It is currently in the British Museum.Więcej

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