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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.

Pigeon-shaped Roman lamp

Pigeon-shaped Roman lamp. The object dates to the 1st – 2nd century CE; made of silver and garnet. Dimensions: height – 11 cm, length – 14 cm.

Roman lamp in the shape of a dove

Fresco showing port of Stabiae

A fresco showing the port of Stabiae, located near Pompeii. Dated to the 1st century CE. The city was completely destroyed in 79 CE, as a result of the eruption of Vesuvius. Pliny the Elder died on the spot, as he came to see the phenomenon closely and to save people.

Fresco showing the port of Stabiae

Reconstruction of bridge in Arelate

Visualization of a drawbridge built by the ancient Romans in the 1st century BCE in Arelate (currently Arles, France). The bridge was over the Rhone and was largely made up of boats side by side. The bridge was part of an important route connecting Italy with Spain.

Reconstruction of the bridge in Arelate

How did the Romans capture animals for the Colosseum?

The Roman games involved vast numbers of animals. Some animals were performers. Elephants balanced on ropes, bowed to the emperor and traced out words with their trunks. Lions gummed their trainers’ hands and played fetch with live hares. Monkeys dressed as soldiers rode goats around the arena.

Venator attacks the leopard with a spear

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