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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.
Salt – expensive commodity in Roman times
Salt in Roman times was an extremely valuable commodity, mainly due to the fact that it was used for food preservation. This, in turn, encouraged the Roman authorities to impose large taxes on salt or after the monopolisation of the market. Pliny claims that Roman legionaries sometimes received pay in the form of salt allocation. Therefore, the phrase “worth one’s salt” is commonly used in English.
How was Christ crucified?
When most Christians believe that Jesus died on two piles shaped in form of a cross, the truth can be completely different. Early Christians left various accounts.
Painted bust of Marcus Agrippa
Painted bust of Marcus Agrippa – a friend and general of Augustus.
Why was Roman army unique?
The Roman army was unique in many ways and to this day its organization is copied in many different variants. During the times of the greatest Roman conquests, under Emperor Trajan, the area controlled by his army ranged from Britain and Spain to Asia Minor and North Africa.
Departure of Crassus
In 53 BCE Marcus Crassus – two months before the end of the consulate – left Rome to become governor in Syria. From there, he intended to lead a war expedition to the Parthia. This plan has not received widespread approval in Rome.
Promiscuous Romans
The ancient Romans might have been less promiscuous than the Greeks, what does not mean that in the public sphere they did not allow themselves to make sexual comments. For example, in Pompeii, graffiti made on the walls of buildings can still be read today. One of them: “Weep, you girls. My penis has given you up. Now it penetrates men’s behinds. Goodbye, wondrous femininity!”
