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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.

Alexander the Great on Roman medallion

Alexander the Great on a Roman medallion from the 3rd century CE. The object was found in Abu Qir, northern Egypt. Alexander was shown wearing a decorated Attic helmet with his head raised, suggesting his divinity.

Alexander the Great on Roman medallion

Exaggerated feasting and vomiting in Roman world

Excessive consumption of food and excess was something the ancient Romans believed should be avoided at all costs. The ideal Roman should be devoted to the gods, his family and homeland, and above all, he should live a simple life and does not demand glory. However, as it always happens, in practice it was different and the Romans, as conquerors of the world, departed from their ideals, e.g. they indulged in boisterous feasts and decadent dishes.

Roman feast on the fresco of Pompeii

Roman women and ancient business

Women in the Roman world did not have the same position as men; e.g. they could not vote in assemblies or hold public office. On the other hand, they could own land, write their own wills, and testify in court. However, this independence was limited.

Portret kobiety rzymskiej

Mosaic showing tigress and cubs

Roman mosaic showing the tigress and cubs. The object is dated to the 4th century CE and was probably found in Italy. Currently, the object is in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art in the USA.

Mosaic showing tigress and cubs

Roman small statuette depicting gladiator

Roman small statuette depicting a gladiator. The object dates from the 1st century CE and shows the so-called “thrax”, who in the arena was usually armed with a short sword (broken here) and a small shield protecting the chest.

Roman small statuette depicting gladiator

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