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Curiosities of ancient Rome
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.
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Woman on balcony on Roman fresco
Roman fresco showing woman on balcony. Dated back to 1st century BCE – 1st century CE. Currently, located in Getty Museum, Los Angeles.
Roman fresco showing Icarus fall into sea
Roman fresco showing Icarus fall into the sea. In the background you can also see a fortified coastal city and amphitheater. The object is located in Pompeii; it is dated to the half of the 1st century CE.
Roman villa of Skala
Roman villa of Skala (island of Kefalonia, Greece) was discovered in 1957. Situated on the southern coast, it certainly offered a beautiful view. Six rooms have survived to our times: a hall, three rooms, a smaller room and an open courtyard. The villa certainly also had its own bathroom with a heating system – hypocaustum.
Villa Rustica near Zurich
Near Zurich (Switzerland) are the remains of a Roman village villa (Villa Rustica). Initially, in the 1st century CE, the building consisted of a simple structure and one large room. With time, the chamber was extended in several stages and received various wings, including a bathhouse, a barn and rooms for servants. The villa was located in the province of Germania Superior.
Roman border marker of two houses
Roman border marker of two houses. Inscriptions are on two sides. Object found in Herculaneum.
Roman bell in shape of head
Roman bell in the shape of the head of the Egyptian god Bes. The deity took care of family life and home. The object was damaged – the tongue dropped out. The bell was made of bronze.
