Curiosities of ancient Rome
This page is also available in: Polish (polski)
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.
Roman sandstone quarry in Cartagena (south of Spain), which was intensively used from the 3rd BCE until the middle of the 20th century. This place has the status of a historic site. Built of sandstone…
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Roman table, made of bronze, which was discovered in Pompeii. Dated to the 1st century CE. The artifact is in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.
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Roman fresco showing a young man resting. The object was discovered in Stabiae; dated to the 1st century CE. The artifact is in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.
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Roman fresco showing a pondering, seated woman. Object dated to the 1st century CE. The artifact was discovered in Stabiae; it is now in the National Archaeological Museum of Naples.
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An earth and wooden Roman fortress – Castle Greg – dating back to the early 80s of the 1st century CE, built during the expedition of Julius Agricola (Gnaeus Julius Agricola). Located in the Harburn…
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Small Roman oil lamp made of bronze with a lid. Object dated to the 1st century CE; discovered in Pompeii. The artifact is in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.
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Roman fresco showing a silver vessel (situla) used in antiquity to collect water. The object dates back to the 1st century BCE. The artifact is in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.
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Toilet in a Pompeian brothel. The person using the toilet defecated into the potty/vessel which was located under the hole. The excrement and urine were then immediately disposed of in the sewers outside the house.…
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Roman bust showing a certain Coelius Caldus. Object dated to the reign of Tiberius (14-37 CE). The artifact is in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.
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Guard dog on a Roman mosaic. Object dated to the 1st century CE. The ancient Romans valued sharp dogs, but it was recommended to breed animals that were obedient to the household and not to…
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