This page cannot be viewed in frames

Go to page

If you have found a spelling error, please, notify us by selecting that text and pressing Ctrl+Enter.

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.

The last Roman

“The Last Roman” is a colloquial term used in historical journalism to describe a character who is considered the last representative of ancient culture and ancient Roman virtues in the face of the end of the age and progressive barbarization. The term comes from the work of Cremutius Cordius, a Roman historian who, being the advocate of the republican system, called “the last Romans” (ultimus Romanorum) of Mark Brutus and Cassius – the killers of Julius Caesar.

Aetius

Skeleton of Persian warrior

Skeleton of a Persian warrior from the 3rd century CE. The soldier is still wearing his extended chain mail. The man died in the tunnel that the Sassan army wanted to get under the tower to the besieged city of Dura Europos (Syria) in 256 CE.

Skeleton of a Persian warrior after using combat gases

Catacombs of Saint Callixtus

In the first century, the Christians of Rome did not have their own cemeteries and used common burial places. For this reason, Saint. Peter was buried on Vatican Hill accessible to everyone; similarly, saint Paul – in the necropolis on Via Ostiense. Over time, the Christian community decided that it was necessary to create separate burial places for the followers of Jesus.

Crypt of the Popes, Catacombs of St. Callixtus

Roman cavalry helmet

Roman cavalry helmet from the Lower Rhine. Object dated to around 1st century CE. Currently located in The Tullie House Museum (England).

Roman helmet belonging to a rider

Stele of Roman archer

Stele of the Roman archer Caius Iulius Andromachus, who belonged to the Cohors II Cyrrestarum cohort. According to the inscription, he was 42 years-old once died. The object is dated from 40-82 CE and is located in Split.

Stele of a Roman archer

Spelling error report

The following text will be sent to our editors: