If you have found a spelling error, please, notify us by selecting that text and pressing Ctrl+Enter.
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.
The helmet of murmillo was heavy (it weighed about 3.5 kg), but it protected the gladiator very well. Above the helmet’s brim is the image of Hercules – a symbol of courage. In ancient times, the helmet was gold-plated and decorated with feathers.
Fragment of the Roman column from Brigetio (now Komarom, northern Hungary). This ancient city, like many others, was born on the place of a Roman camp in which the Roman legion stationed.
The marble Roman base of the fountain decorated with shells and heads of dogs. These types of buildings adorned Roman villas. Dated to 1st-2nd century CE; now they are in the British Museum.
A well-preserved Roman gate in Lugo (Spain). This city is the only centre in the world that is surrounded by completely intact Roman walls from the 3rd century CE.
Roman sculpture depicting a figure in toga. The object is dated to the 1st century CE and was found in Domus Romana in Malta.
Roman helmet worn by a horseman, dated 150-200 CE. Object found in Nijmegen, Netherlands.
A marble statue depicting emperor Septimius Severus in military clothing found in Alexandria (Egypt). The object is located in the British Museum; dated to 2nd – 3rd century CE.
Roman copper bucket discovered in the area where the ancient Ta ‘Gawhar tower in Malta was located. Currently, you can admire it in the Domus Romana in Malta. The artefact is dated to 1st BCE – 1st century CE.
