Curiosities of ancient Rome (Unknown facts)

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Unknown Facts are curiosities revealing little-known, surprising, or rarely discussed information from the world of ancient Rome and antiquity. This category includes unusual details, curiosities, and facts that offer a less obvious perspective on the Roman Empire.

Theatrical masks in antiquity

The only ancient source of information about masks that were used in ancient times during theatrical performances is Julius Pollux, a Greek scientist from the 3rd century CE, who wrote the work Onomasticon. In his…Więcej

Wild animals from all over Empire

Introducing and killing wild animals for entertainment in amphitheatres or for expensive ivory or fur has led to a significant decline in species numbers across the Empire. As early as 50 BCE, Cicero, as governor…Więcej

What did greats of ancient world hide under their pillows?

Plutarch in his work (“Life of Alexander”, 8) mentions that Alexander the Great kept a special copy of the “Iliad” under his pillow while sleeping, with Aristotle’s commentaries. This was largely due to the love…Więcej

Selenite – valued material

In ancient Rome, selenite (referred to as lapis specularis, meaning “mirror stone”) was a valued mineral. Pliny the Elder emphasized the advantages of this mineral, which could be cut into thin layers through which light…Więcej

Punishment for himself

Emperor Julian the Apostate (reigned 361-363 CE) went down in history as a sensible and righteous Roman ruler. He became famous, among others, for his actions to eliminate bureaucracy and improve the rule of law.…Więcej

Mandatory torture for slaves

In a situation where the Roman slave could only determine whether the accused was guilty or not, he had to be subjected to mandatory torture. Only such testimony of a slave was considered true and…Więcej

Octavian Augustus in ranking of influential people

In the ranking of people who had the greatest influence on the history of mankind, announced at the end of 2013, Octavian Augustus was ranked 30th place.Więcej

Crucified lions by Romans

The Greek historian Polybius mentions that when he participated with Scipio Africanus in conquering (in 146 BCE) Carthage saw lions crucified. As it turned out, such decisions were made by the Romans. Back then, the…Więcej

Tribulus – Roman echidnas

Tribulus was a Roman weapon consisting of four sharp spikes or nails arranged in such a way that one of them always protruded vertically upwards. Such Roman spikelets were placed on a previously prepared battlefield,…Więcej

Birth control under Augustus

In ancient Rome, it was realized that a high number of births guaranteed the proper development of the state and society. During the rule of Octavian Augustus (27 BCE – 14 CE), it was decided…Więcej

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