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Curiosities of ancient Rome

The world of ancient Romans abounded in a number of amazing curiosities and information. The source of knowledge about the life of the Romans are mainly works left to us by ancient writers or discoveries. The Romans left behind a lot of strange information and facts that are sometimes hard to believe.

Clash of Pyrrhus with Mamertine warrior

According to the message of Plutarch, Pyrrhus, during his return with his army from Sicily to Italy, had to deal with the Mamertine troops, which attacked him fiercely. It is said that Pyrrhus, as was his habit, actively participated in the fighting. Unfortunately, however, he received a blow to the head and had to withdraw from the battlefield. Then one of the mighty Mamertine warriors began to mock the king of Epirus, thus provoking him to a duel.

Bust of Pyrrhus in Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Evolution of patronage in late Roman Empire

In Roman society, the existence of a patron-client relationship was common. Most often, a poor citizen or a liberator submitted to a higher-ranking Roman who, through his position and property, could act in favour of the client. In return, the client was the patron’s support and support, e.g. during elections. Moreover, having many clients aroused respect and strengthened the position of the patron in society. In the 4th century CE however, patronage (patrocinium) changed and the patron-client relationship began to hit the state directly.

Roman mosaic floor

Sacred border of Rome

Pomerium or pomoerium (literally “beyond the mountains”) was a line of a sacred character delimiting the boundaries of the city of Rome. In legal terms, Rome functioned as an institution only within these borders, beyond which there were simply lands (ager) belonging to Rome.

Pomerium

Map showing total of 11,655 Roman settlements

Map showing a total of 11,655 settlements that were founded or managed by the ancient Romans. The map was made by Harvard University as part of the DARMC PROJECT project. The settlements are grouped into three categories: a certain city location (square); probable location (circle); or possible location (semicircle).

Map showing total of 11,655 Roman settlements

Beautifully preserved Roman helmet from 3rd century CE

A beautifully preserved Roman helmet from the 3rd century CE. The helmet of Weisenau belonged to the soldier Julius Mansuetus, who engraved his name on the nape of his neck. In addition to the name, there are pictures of mice and loaves of bread on the helmet. The helmet also had cheek pads, which, however, have not survived to our times.

Beautifully preserved Roman helmet from 3rd century CE

Beautiful Roman vessel preserved

A beautiful Roman vessel made of colourless glass has been preserved. The object is 27.5 cm high and dates back to the 3rd century CE. The artifact was found in Cologne, Germany.

Beautiful Roman vessel preserved

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