Curiosities of ancient Rome

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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.

Gaius Mucius Scaevola – hero of Romans

Gaius Mucius Scaevola was a hero of the Romans, who became famous for his courage. Probably this story, which comes from the work of Livy, is just a legend. The story begins in the year…Więcej

Northern gate of Roman fort in Bu Njem in Libya

Remains of the northern gate of the Roman fort in Bu Njem in Libya. In ancient times, this place was called Gholaia and was founded on the initiative of the emperor Septimius Severus (193-211 CE).…Więcej

Cats in ancient Egypt

Cats in ancient Egypt were sacred. In the middle of the first century BCE Diodorus Siculus witnessed how the Egyptian crowd lynched a member of the Roman embassy who accidentally killed a cat. People did…Więcej

Visualization of Vesuvius eruption in 79 CE

Using computer technology, the moment of the Vesuvius eruption in 79 CE was recreated – a tragic event during the reign of the Emperor Titus. The explosion was so sudden and unexpectedly, it completely surprised…Więcej

Reliefs on Roman tomb

Reliefs on the Roman tomb, showing the twelve works of Hercules and the scenes of hunting. The property is currently located in Rome, in the Borghese Gallery.Więcej

Pension of Diocletian

Diocletian who introduced the principle of the rule of tetrarchy ruled in 284-305 CE. He remained in charge until he was confident enough to abdicate; then he ordered his aide Maximian to do likewise. Diocletian…Więcej

Miniature Roman skeleton

Roman miniature skeleton, made of bronze, dated back to I century CE. Object was symbolizing fragility of life. Several similar skeletons are known, including one in silver found at Pompeii.Więcej

Death of Commodus

On December 31, 192 CE emperor Commodus, after 12 years of brutal rule, was poisoned with wine by his mistress Marcia. Unfortunately, the ruler vomited poison and conspirators with prefect Laetus hired a wrestler Narcissus…Więcej

Roman interesting drinking glass

Roman interesting drinking glass, dated back to I century CE.Więcej

Nero exercises

Neron, as a true music lover and singer, not wanting to lose his great voice did not give up any exercises that professional singers did. Exercises used by him are: lying on the back with…Więcej

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