Roman Empire Anecdotes

Alexander the Great in Roman Thought: Hero, Rival, and Legend

How did the Romans see Alexander the Great? Were they influenced? What did they think about his personality? His military accomplishments? His life?

Roman Empire Historical Facts

Ascending to the Divine: The Practice and Meaning of Apotheosis in Ancient Rome

How was apotheosis used as a religious practice, but also as a political tool in ancient Rome? How was it used to solidify dynastic legitimacy and reinforce imperial ideology?

Roman Empire Anecdotes

The Roman Poet of Sharp Words: Martial and his Rome

Martial was a Roman poet, the man behind the epigrams, who is remembered for his razor-sharp commentary

Roman Empire Historical Facts

Macrinus’ True Story: Gladiator 2’s Power Player and Rome’s Brief Emperor

In the records of Roman history, Marcus Opellius Macrinus stands as a unique, and often overlooked figure.

Roman Empire Historical Facts

The Spiraling Legacy of Trajan's Column: Art, Propaganda, and Power

Trajan's Column is an iconic piece of Roman art and architecture, rich with historical, artistic, and cultural significance.

Roman Empire Historical Facts

Marking the Hours: The Roman Way of Measuring Time

The Romans employed various methods to measure time, integrating natural observations with technological innovations.

Roman Empire Historical Facts

Did Slaves Whisper “Memento Mori” to Roman Generals During their Triumph?

The concept of memento mori, Latin for "remember you must die," has been a significant theme throughout history, particularly in the Roman Empire. This idea served as a reminder of human mortality and the transient nature of life.

Roman Empire Historical Facts

Cato the Elder and the Roman Spirit: Discipline, Duty, and the Fall of Carthage

Cato the Elder is a fascinating figure in Roman history, embodying the traditional Roman virtues of discipline, frugality, and loyalty to the Republic.

Roman Empire Anecdotes

The Daily Bread of Rome: The Apple of Discord Between Romans and the Bakers

Bread was an essential part of the Roman diet, especially for the lower classes. It wasn’t just a staple but also reflected social status and culture, varying in type and quality depending on the person’s wealth and occupation.

Roman Empire Anecdotes

Sallust: Details on the Historian of Roman Elite and the Republic’s Decline

Sallust, one of Rome’s earliest and most profound historians, offers an intense and critical perspective on the decline of the Roman Republic.

Roman Empire Historical Facts

We Researched the Roman Empire‘s Presence in the Orient: Here is What we Found

The Roman Empire left a notable architectural and cultural footprint in the East, where Roman monuments, cities, and even temples still stand as remnants of its reach.

Roman Empire Historical Facts

Guarding the Word: Speech, Censorship, and Power in Ancient Rome

How were the Republic and the Empire treating freedom of speech? How did the emperors censor perceived threats?

Roman Empire Historical Facts

Herodes Atticus: A Bridge Between Greek Heritage and Roman Power

Herodes Atticus is a fascinating figure, especially in the context of his relationship with the Roman Empire. A Greek aristocrat from Marathon, Herodes was born into immense wealth and became one of the most prominent benefactors in the Roman Empire during the second century AD.

Roman Empire Historical Facts

Roman Concrete: Stronger, Self-healing, and Built to Last Forever

Roman concrete, often admired for its longevity and resilience, was revolutionary due to its unique blend of materials and its remarkable ability to withstand environmental stress over centuries.

Roman Empire Historical Facts

How did Romans Flood the Colosseum for Naval Battles in the Arena?

Were naumachiae actually held in the Colosseum? How did the Romans flood the arena to stage a naval battle?

Roman Empire Historical Facts

The Gemonian Stairs: Rome's Spot of Mourning and Execution

The Gemonian Stairs became synonymous to death and humiliation for the Roman Empire's enemies and criminals.