Amazing Roman ring
Roman gold, green chalcedony and diamond ring. Dated back to III-IV century CE.
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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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Medallion showing emperor Probus and Sol Invictus
Medallion showing emperor Probus. A great and powerful emperor of the late third century. On the coin we can see also Sol Invictus.
Beautiful Roman ring
Roman gold finger ring with cameo, dated back to 2nd century CE
Swastika – symbol of happiness and prosperity
Swastika, as a result of Hitler and Nazi Germany, became a symbol of hatred and racial segregation. Not many however realize that 卐 symbol was already used in ancient times, all around the world, and had a completely different meaning.
Roman globular glass jug
Roman globular glass jug. Dated back to I-II century CE.
Elagabalus married Vestal Virgin
Emperor Elagabalus (reigned in 218-222 CE) was famous for scandalous behavior. One of his worst offenses for the public was being in the relation with priestess of the Roman goddess of a home bonfire, Vesta, whose task was to uphold the eternal fire in the temple. During her 30-year-long service, Vestal Virgin had to keep her virginity, otherwise she would be condemned to death. Heliogabal, regardless of the prestigious function of the Vestals, married one of the priestesses – Aquila Severa.
