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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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Over 12,000 wrecks at bottom of Mediterranean Sea
More than 12,000 shipwrecks have been found at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea, dating from around the 3rd century BCE to 2nd CE; much more than in the next century. This difference is not due to the fact that sailing skills have improved, but rather the well-being of the inhabitants has decreased, and thus sea trade has lost its importance.
Great defensive structures of Romans
Romans were able to build great defensive structures. High walls and mighty towers were mainly of psychological importance, because the barbarians with whom the Romans fought often had no idea at all about the art of besieging fortresses, and the sight of such fortifications aroused fear and respect in them.
Hen and rooster pecking at fruit in Roman fresco
A hen and a rooster pecking at a fruit on a Roman wall fresco. The artifact was found in Herculaneum. The object is on display at the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.
Subarmalis – Roman “vest” under the armor
Roman legionaries wore under armour (lorica hamata, lorica segmentata, lorica squamata or lorica plumata) so-called subarmalis – quilted vest. The main task of subarmalis was to absorb shocks and prevent rubbing and dirt. Subarmalis covered the chest and reached the hips.
Kottabos – Greek party fun
The game kottabos, extremely popular in ancient Greece, consisted in splashing the remains of wine from a vessel into a metal bowl in such a way as not to stain the floor with the remains of the drink. In addition, it was appropriate that the sound of the falling drink be as delicate as possible. It was believed that the effectiveness of this game guaranteed a good love life.
Roman fresco showing two young women
Roman fresco from Herculaneum showing two young women, where one of them holds a wax tablet and a stylus for writing. Object dated to the 1st century CE. The artifact is in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.
Reason of war with Tarentum
In 282 BCE, Roman Republic was asked to intervene in the case of the Greek city of Thurii1, which was being raided by Lucanians and Brucians. When the Romans entered the bay of Tarentum, they regarded it as breaking the mutual agreement not to enter the bay with Roman ships.
