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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.
Hypocrisy in eyes of Romans
Hypocrisy in eyes of Romans:
Shortly about Diocletian
Emperor Diocletian came from a poor family from the Salona area. He owes his position to hard work and military capabilities, thanks to which he quickly advanced to the highest levels of the Roman army. Among other things, he was the commander of Emperor Numerian’s bodyguard. Therefore, he enjoyed high trust. The emperor was proclaimed emperor in 284 CE.
Roman statuette of Magna Mater
Roman terracotta statuette of Magna Mater. Object is dated back to 3rd-4th century CE. It was found in ancient Sirmium, present-day Sremska Mitrovica (northern Serbia). This figurine has prominent breasts and belly of pregnant woman, symbols of fertility. Artifact currently is located in Collection of Srem Museum in Sremska Mitrovica.
“Self-made man” in Roman edition
“Self-made man” in the Roman edition – during discussion in “The Banquet of Trimalchio” (Petronius):
Etymology of Latin names
According to Marcus Terentius Varro, whose works have been preserved in a very small and poor form, we can trace the etymology of Latin names associated with the rise of the city of Rome. And so, the place where Rome is today, was called Septimontium, from the seven hills that were later included in the city walls.
Inscription of Julius Valens who lived for 100 years
In Caerleon (southeast Wales) in about 1815 an amazing Roman inscription was discovered. It mentions a man named Julius Valens – a Roman legionary who lived 100 years.
End of penalty ad beast
On October 1, 326 CE Emperor Constantine prohibited the penalty ad beast and exchanged it for metella. This meant that it was no longer allowed to punish with tearing in the arena by wild animals, and the convicts were sent to forced labor in the mines.
Great Antonine Altar
So called Great Antonine Altar was found in Ephesus and is dated back to circa 169 CE. Object is a relief monument showing from the far left, Marcus Aurelius once he was 17-years-old. Next to him stands Antoninus Pius with young Lucius Verus and further Hadrian.
