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.

Remains of colossal statue of Domitian

Remains of a colossal Roman statue depicting Emperor Domitian (reigned from 81-96 CE). It is located in the Ephesus Museum in Selçuk, Turkey.Więcej

Baths of Caracalla were largest baths in empire

The Baths of Caracalla were the largest baths in the empire. Built in 216 CE the baths could simultaneously accommodate 1,500 people. The bathing plan was as follows: upon entering, you entered the bathhouse, then…Więcej

Portrait of Tiberius on cult vessel

The portrait of the Roman Emperor Tiberius (ruled 14-37 CE) is considered part of the cult vessel. It is located in the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge (England).Więcej

Strigimentum – exfoliated epidermis, sweat and oil

Ancient Romans used the strigil tool to cleanse their skin. From the skin, they scraped not only perfumed oils that were applied to the skin but also sweat and dead skin. The ancients referred to…Więcej

Lovely Roman glass fish

Roman glass fish over 1,800 years old. The object is 49 mm long.Więcej

Beautiful tombstone monument showing eagle and armaments

Roman tombstone from the time of the reign of Octavian Augustus (27 BCE – 14 CE). The sculpture shows an eagle and weapons. In the past, the monument may have contained an urn with the…Więcej

Roman mosaic showing preparations for feast

Roman mosaic showing the preparations for the feast performed by slaves. The object is dated to the end of the 2nd century CE. It is currently located in the Louvre.Więcej

Discussion of Julia Domna and wife of Argentocoxus

Cassius Dio tells about an interesting discussion between the wife of Septimius Severus – Julia Domna, and taken captive wife of the Caledonian chieftain, Argentocoxus, which is not known from the name. The conversation was…Więcej

Interesting amulet with head of animal

An interesting find from the Roman fort of Arbeia in South Shields (North East of England). The subject shows the head of an animal, possibly either a fox or a bear. It was probably an…Więcej

Very interesting image of emperor Elagabalus

Very interesting image of emperor Elagabalus (204-222 CE), based on the famous bust from the Capitoline Museum in Rome.Więcej

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