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.

Roman fresco showing Dionysus and Maenad

Roman fresco showing Dionysus (Bacchus) and Maenad (Bacchae), the companion of the god of wine. Also visible in the scene is a young Satyr and Silenus with a zither. Wine is poured from a vessel…Więcej

How was scutum kept?

To protect against rain scutum – a Roman shield – was hidden during the march in a special cover with goatskin or cowhide. For convenience, the scutum was worn while marching by hanging it over…Więcej

Roman tombstone of gladiator named Lupercus

Roman tombstone of a gladiator named Lupercus, which was financed by his wife Theodora. The man was a gladiator of type thraex, as evidenced by his visualization. The man is armed with a curved sword…Więcej

Where was Roman toilet located?

Almost all private Roman houses in Herculaneum and Pompeii had toilets. They were usually in the kitchens or under the stairs (Herculaneum Casa del Gran Portale house). Such solitary confinement rooms often had no doors,…Więcej

Marble bust of Gnaeus Domitius Ahenobarbus

Marble bust of Gnaeus Domitius Ahenobarbus (17 BCE – 40 CE), Roman general and consul from 32 CE. He was the grandson of Mark Antony, the husband of Agrippina the Younger and the father of…Więcej

Roman ceramic drinking cups

Roman ceramic drinking cups in the shape of masks with phalluses inside. The objects are on display at the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.Więcej

“Golden Age” of Roman Empire

The so-called “golden period of the empire” consisted of the rule of the emperors: Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius (96-180 CE). At that time, the choice of the ruler was made by…Więcej

Fragment of stone with hunting scene

A fragment of a stone on which a wild boar hunting scene was engraved. The object was found in Chesters Fort, which was part of Hadrian’s Wall. It is possible that the drawing was created…Więcej

Roman deadlift

It is said that the ancient Greeks and Romans practised the deadlift (deadlift). Lifting a weight from the ground is the oldest “utility” movement and has been proven to be the most powerful for centuries.…Więcej

Nomenclature of discovered buildings in Pompeii

Pompeii is one of the most amazing archaeological discoveries in the history of mankind. A well-preserved ancient city, with the remains of people who did not manage to beat the destructive power of Vesuvius in…Więcej

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