When thinking of ancient Rome, images of Julius Caesar, gladiators, and the Colosseum quickly come to mind. The Roman Empire, which thrived from 753 BC to 476 AD, remains one of the most iconic eras in history. Its impact is still evident today, shaping the culture, politics, and infrastructure of the Western world.
But Roman life was far more diverse and surprising than just emperors and arenas. From wealthy Romans keeping pet lions to the thrill of dangerous chariot races, Roman society was filled with unexpected customs. So, forget what you think you know—it’s time to dive into the lesser-known details and surprising realities of everyday life in ancient Rome.
Gladiators: Masters of Combat and Death
Gladiators in ancient Rome lived for the thrill of the arena, where every battle meant entertaining the masses and fighting for survival. Their training was intense, designed not only to sharpen their combat abilities but also to teach them how to deliver and endure dramatic fatal strikes. Gladiator fights were as much about spectacle as they were about skill, captivating audiences with the uncertainty of life and death.
Although not every battle ended fatally, death was a constant risk, especially as the games became increasingly violent over time. By the 3rd century, around 25% of gladiators lost their lives in the arena, highlighting the brutal reality faced by those who lived and died for the entertainment of Rome.
The Path to Freedom: Manumission in Ancient Rome
Slavery in ancient Rome was complex, but one distinct aspect was the possibility of freedom through manumission. Unlike many other cultures, Roman slaves had a chance to buy their freedom, often with savings from gifts they received. Some owners even chose to free their slaves without payment.
This hope of eventual freedom motivated many slaves to be diligent and loyal. However, the path to liberty was often fraught with challenges. Not all slaves were able to save enough to gain their freedom, and for those who did, life as a freed person could still be difficult. The stigma of being a former slave persisted, making true integration into Roman society a struggle for many even after their emancipation.4o with canvas
A Balanced Life: Short Work Days in Ancient Rome
In ancient Rome, work was about balancing productivity with leisure. Without clocks, Romans relied on the sun, starting their day around 6 a.m. After a simple breakfast, they would work through the morning until early afternoon.
By then, it was time to relax and enjoy life. Only a few shops remained open past this time, as many Romans took the opportunity to attend gladiatorial events, watch chariot races, or visit wrestling matches. Others preferred to unwind at the public baths or catch a performance at the theater. Taverns, however, stayed open all day, serving as lively social spots for food and drink. This routine helped create a culture that valued leisure as much as work.
A City at Risk: The Frequent Fires of Ancient Rome
In ancient Rome, fires were an unfortunate part of daily life. Without access to modern building materials, Roman homes were often constructed with wood and mud, making them prone to collapse and highly flammable. The densely populated city, filled with closely packed buildings, faced constant fire risks, especially with open flames and hot coals used for cooking indoors. Fires spread quickly, endangering entire neighborhoods.
One of the most notorious incidents was the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD, which burned for six days and nights, leaving large sections of the city in ruins. These frequent fires were a persistent danger, making fire prevention and control a major concern for Roman citizens.
Extravagant Banquets: A Ritual of Wealth and Power
For ancient Rome’s elite, a banquet was more than just a meal—it was a chance to demonstrate status, forge alliances, and impress guests. These gatherings were a blend of indulgence and social strategy, where networking and displaying wealth were as important as the food itself. Each banquet typically followed a similar lavish routine.
Guests reclined on couches while being served, starting with appetizers before moving on to a grand main course. Entertainment was a must, featuring acrobats, musicians, and sometimes even chefs who sang as they served. For the wealthiest hosts, these events became even more extravagant, with live animals like lions and bears occasionally brought in to captivate the guests and leave a lasting impression.
Monte Testaccio: Rome’s Mountain of Discarded Pots
Olive oil was an essential commodity in ancient Rome, imported from far-off regions for use in bathing, medicine, and daily life. The demand for oil was so immense that it led to an overwhelming number of empty terracotta containers. After the oil was used, these jars were discarded because the remaining residue would turn rancid, making them unsuitable for reuse. Over time, these broken pots were piled up, eventually forming a massive artificial mound.
Today, this mound is known as Monte Testaccio, or “Potsherd Mountain,” a testament to the vast quantities of olive oil consumed by the Romans. It remains one of the most intriguing archaeological sites, offering a glimpse into the daily life and consumption habits of ancient Rome.
Wild Pets of the Roman Emperors
Roman history is full of eccentric emperors who wielded immense power and enjoyed flaunting their wealth in unusual ways. Among the most peculiar was Emperor Elagabalus, who began his reign as a teenager. He quickly gained a reputation for throwing extravagant, scandalous parties, often ignoring traditional Roman customs.
Like many of his counterparts, Elagabalus kept wild animals, including lions and bears, as part of his displays of wealth and power. During his infamous gatherings, these exotic creatures were sometimes allowed to roam freely, adding a sense of danger and spectacle to the festivities. The ownership of wild animals became a symbol of imperial opulence, showcasing the emperor’s ability to control even the most untamed elements of nature.
The Importance of Bakers in Roman Society
In ancient Rome, grain was a vital commodity, almost like currency, but it needed to be transformed into something more practical—bread. Since most Roman households lacked ovens, bakers held a crucial position in the community. Bread baking was not just an essential job; it was a profitable and highly respected profession.
Those who controlled the commercial ovens were well-regarded and even wielded influence in political circles. Many bakers used their status to run for public office, playing a role in civic elections. Their ability to provide bread, a staple food, gave them a certain level of power and prestige, making baking one of the more financially rewarding and socially influential occupations in Roman times.
Gladiator Armor: More Flash Than Function
In ancient Rome, there wasn’t just one kind of gladiator; there were over 24 distinct types, each with unique armor and weapons for the arena. Though their gear might have looked fierce, it was primarily designed for spectacle rather than practicality. Gladiator armor wasn’t modeled after what soldiers used in battle; instead, it was crafted to enhance the drama of their performances.
Some gladiators wore full suits of armor, while others had minimal protection to allow for faster movement, ensuring an exciting show for spectators. The diversity in armor also served to balance the matches, making each duel more fair and visually entertaining. Gladiator gear was as much about impressing the audience as it was about protection.
Medical Care in Rome: A Matter of Luck
In ancient Rome, those in need of serious medical care faced grim prospects. There were no formal medical schools, and anyone could declare themselves a doctor without any training or qualifications. The closest thing to a hospital was a simple tent set up on the battlefield for resting soldiers. Roman citizens had to rely on these untrained individuals, whose success was more about keeping patients alive through trial and error rather than possessing genuine medical knowledge.
Additionally, since autopsies were forbidden, understanding of the human body was extremely limited. With no standardized medical practices, treatment in ancient Rome was often a matter of chance, making serious illness a frightening prospect for the average Roman.
Justice in Rome: A System Favoring the Powerful
In ancient Rome, justice was deeply tied to social status. Without a formal police force, enforcement fell to the victim’s family, especially in cases of death. Retaliation often led to the offender’s death unless they belonged to a higher social class, which provided them protection from harsher consequences. As time passed, a judicial system emerged, enabling accusations against the elite.
However, wealth and influence often swayed the outcomes. Members of the upper class typically received lenient punishments, largely due to their perceived contributions to society. Meanwhile, those of lower status faced harsh penalties. This system maintained social order but clearly favored the wealthy and powerful, making justice in Rome an unequal and heavily biased process.
The Origins of Branding in Ancient Rome
The concept of branding products is often thought of as modern, but it actually has roots in ancient Rome. Roman artisans and merchants were branding their goods long before the term existed, marking everything from bread and pottery to glassware with their names or symbols. One notable example is Aulus Umbricius Scaurus, a renowned fish sauce producer in Pompeii.
His marketing skills were exceptional—he branded his name on mosaics, pottery, and fish sauce containers, making his product easily recognizable. In fact, about 29% of fish sauce containers found in Pompeii bear his name, showing just how successful his branding efforts were. This early form of product identification helped build reputation and customer trust, much like branding does today.
Ancient Rome’s Early Advertising Craze
Advertising is often seen as a modern phenomenon, but it was alive and well in ancient Rome. The Roman Games were major events, and advertising them was taken very seriously. Instead of digital billboards or TV ads, emperors commissioned massive murals on city walls to promote the games.
Citizens would also add graffiti portraits of popular gladiators, while handouts were distributed to entice people to attend. Emperor Augustus took advertising to a new level of spectacle by using live crocodiles to promote his games, drawing attention in a unique and memorable way. Rome’s streets were filled with these early forms of advertising, making sure everyone knew when and where to attend the next big event.
The Many Gods of Ancient Rome
Ancient Rome was a polytheistic society, meaning they worshiped a vast number of gods and goddesses—at least 67, not counting the numerous demigods. Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva were among the most prominent deities, but Romans also believed that spirits protected and governed every aspect of life, from rivers and trees to their own homes.
As a result, it was common for Romans to build shrines dedicated to these spirits. These shrines served dual purposes: as places of worship and as symbols of wealth and status. The more elaborate a shrine, the more it showcased the owner’s prosperity. Worship in ancient Rome was not only a spiritual practice but also a way to demonstrate one’s social standing.
Cybele: The Goddess with a Devoted Cult
Ancient Romans often adopted gods from other cultures, and one of the most significant was Cybele, also called Magna Mater, or the Great Mother. Originally a Phrygian goddess, Cybele represented fertility, motherhood, and the earth. Her influence in Roman society was profound, and she even had her own dedicated cult with unique rituals.
The worship of Cybele involved ecstatic ceremonies, and some male followers demonstrated their devotion by undergoing ritual castration. In 204 BC, the Roman Senate officially recognized her cult, and the Megalesia—an annual festival in her honor—became one of the most important religious celebrations in Rome. The cult of Cybele showcased how Romans embraced diverse deities, incorporating them into their own spiritual practices.
The Giant Octopus: Ancient Rome’s First Urban Legend
Urban legends aren’t just a modern creation—ancient Rome had its own mysterious tales. One of the first documented urban legends was recorded by Aelian, a 3rd-century AD writer, who shared the story of a giant octopus terrorizing the city of Puteoli. According to the legend, the octopus grew tired of its usual sea diet and ventured into the city through the sewer system. Its goal? To feast on pickled fish from a merchant’s shop.
The creature was said to be so massive that capturing or killing it required a group effort. This story of the giant octopus became a memorable legend, showing that people have always been fascinated by strange and larger-than-life creatures.
The Harsh Lives of Female Slaves in Rome
Life for female slaves in ancient Rome was often unforgiving, marked by a lack of freedom and harsh treatment. Considered property, they could be bought, sold, or punished entirely at their owner’s discretion. Many served as domestic workers, tasked with grueling household chores, while others were forced into personal roles as concubines or entertainers.
Abuse and mistreatment were common, making their daily existence extremely difficult. Despite the challenges, some female slaves found ways to improve their situation. Through resilience and cleverness, a few managed to gain influence within their households, either earning their freedom or becoming trusted figures. These rare stories of survival highlight the strength of women who found ways to persevere in a society that offered them few rights.
Ancient Rome’s Cold Plunge Tradition
Cold plunging might seem trendy today, but it has roots in ancient Rome. Roman bathhouses, or thermae, were not only places for relaxation but also centers for fitness and socializing. Many of these bathhouses featured palaestrae—exercise areas where visitors could engage in activities like wrestling, weight lifting, and ball games to stay physically fit. After working up a sweat, Romans would follow a bathing routine that included different temperature baths.
They began with the caldarium (hot bath) to loosen muscles, moved to the tepidarium (warm bath) for gradual cooling, and finished with the frigidarium (cold plunge) to refresh themselves. This bathing ritual was both a solitary and social experience, showing how physical well-being and camaraderie intertwined in Roman culture.
Praying in Ancient Rome: A Unique Approach
Religion was deeply woven into the daily life of ancient Romans, with prayers often directed toward the many spirits believed to inhabit their world. Since the gender of these spirits was not always known, people would address them as “god or goddess” to avoid making an error that might cause their prayers to be ignored. Romans were meticulous about covering all bases in their spiritual practices, seeking to avoid any unintended offense.
Rituals and sacrifices were common, often used to appease these spirits. For example, farmers would sacrifice a pig before plowing their fields, believing this gesture would compensate for disturbing the land. Roman prayers were as much about appeasement as they were about seeking favor from the divine.
Roman Baths: A Male-Dominated Space
In ancient Rome, public baths were primarily the domain of men, with women often restricted to smaller, less elaborate facilities or designated times. The largest baths were mostly male-only, reflecting the Roman social structure that emphasized modesty and controlled interactions between genders.
These spaces were not only for hygiene but also served as vital centers for socializing, political discussions, and business dealings—activities from which women were often excluded. Although clean and functional facilities were available for women, societal norms of the time limited their access to the grand bathhouses and prevented them from participating in these central communal experiences. For Roman men, the baths were key hubs for building connections and asserting influence in their society.
The High Rewards of Chariot Racing in Rome
Chariot racing in ancient Rome was not only dangerous but also extremely rewarding. Many racers were slaves, but despite the risks, they participated eagerly, as a victory could lead to substantial prize money. Winning a race offered a chance to earn a portion of the winnings, making it an attractive opportunity for those seeking financial freedom.
Betting was also a major part of the sport, with racers sometimes betting on themselves to increase their earnings. Loyalty among racers was rare—drivers frequently switched teams, often moving to the more successful ones like the white or red factions. Chariot racing was a high-stakes endeavor, combining physical danger with the prospect of significant financial gain for those who triumphed.
Plaques as Punishment for Roman Slaves
In ancient Rome, slaves who tried to escape or exhibited bad behavior faced harsh punishments, including the “furca” or wearing a plaque around their neck. Known as a “titulus,” this plaque would display the slave’s name, offense, and the contact details of their owner. It served as a public form of humiliation, intended to deter further acts of disobedience. Wearing a titulus marked the individual as a runaway or troublemaker, ensuring that others knew their status and could assist in their capture if they fled again.
This punishment was a powerful symbol of the control slave owners wielded over their slaves, reinforcing their dominance while discouraging others from attempting to resist or escape their captivity.
The Truth Behind the “Thumbs-Down” Gesture
The film Gladiator brought ancient Rome to life with its epic depiction of gladiatorial combat. One of its most memorable scenes is the emperor deciding a gladiator’s fate with a thumbs-up or thumbs-down gesture. But did such gestures really happen in Rome’s arenas? Historians have long debated this. It’s unclear if judges even used their thumbs in the manner shown.
Some historians suggest that, contrary to the movie, a “thumbs down” may have meant sparing the defeated gladiator, while a “thumbs up” signaled death. The exact gestures and their meanings remain uncertain, leaving us to question whether the dramatic thumbs-down from the movie accurately reflects what truly happened in the Colosseum’s bloody arenas.
Emperors at the Public Baths: A Display of Power
Public baths were a central part of daily life in ancient Rome, and even emperors would visit them, using the opportunity to mingle with citizens and bolster their public image. Despite the baths being potential breeding grounds for illness, emperors embraced them as a way to connect with the people, appearing almost like local celebrities. While ordinary Romans exfoliated by rubbing against stone walls or using oil, emperors enjoyed a far more luxurious experience.
Their entourage attended to their every need, carrying their robes, applying oil to their skin, and using a strigil—a curved metal tool—to scrape off the oil and dirt. These public visits served to remind everyone of the emperor’s power and accessibility, bridging the gap between ruler and ruled.
Why Many Roman Statues Are Just Heads
If you’ve visited a museum, you’ve likely seen numerous sculptures featuring marble heads without their bodies from ancient Rome. The reason behind this is both practical and economical. Sculpting a full marble statue took a considerable amount of time, and with the short reigns of some Roman emperors, many died before the artist could complete the entire statue.
To address this, artists developed a more efficient method by crafting interchangeable marble heads. This way, a head could be replaced or updated without having to create a new statue from scratch. This practice allowed for quicker adaptations, and as a result, many marble heads of Roman senators, philosophers, and emperors were designed to fit onto a standard sculpted body.
The Financial Struggles of Roman Inflation
Inflation was a significant issue in ancient Rome, affecting society just as it does today. As currency evolved throughout the Roman Empire, various emperors attempted different strategies to manage rising costs. Prices often depended on wages, leading to financial strain for many citizens. Emperor Diocletian famously imposed price controls to fight inflation, but his efforts were largely unsuccessful.
One major challenge was the disparity in wages between different types of workers. Farmers earned considerably less compared to skilled artisans or painters, making it difficult for them to afford even basic goods. For some, items like a simple pair of boots could cost weeks of wages, highlighting the economic inequality and the financial challenges faced by ordinary Romans.
Rome’s Markets Overflowed with Imported Treasures
Ancient Rome experienced rapid population growth, which created high demand for goods. To meet this growing need, the Romans turned to imports, bringing in products from all over the Mediterranean. The bustling markets were filled with an array of items, including wood, salt, pigs, ivory, and jewels, showcasing treasures from distant lands.
This flow of imported goods allowed Roman citizens to experience the novelty of exotic products and added variety to daily life. However, access to these luxury imports was limited to those who could afford them, meaning that only the wealthiest enjoyed the full bounty of Rome’s extensive trade network. The imported items highlighted the empire’s reach and success, but also its economic disparities.
Nero: Rome’s Infamous Tyrant
Emperor Nero, the great-great-grandson of Rome’s first emperor, Augustus, ascended to power in 54 A.D. at just 17 years old. His 14-year reign was marked by infamy, cementing his reputation as one of Rome’s worst rulers. Though Nero did implement some beneficial reforms, such as improving the tax system and food supply, his reign was overshadowed by his disturbing behavior.
Nero had a penchant for disguising himself, roaming the streets at night, and attacking innocent people—throwing their bodies into sewers afterward. His tyrannical actions and disregard for Roman values eventually led to his downfall. When the Senate declared him an enemy of the state and condemned him to death, Nero’s notorious reign finally came to an end.
Chariot Racing: Rome’s Favorite Spectacle
Chariot racing was the most popular sport in ancient Rome, even surpassing gladiatorial battles in its appeal. Often compared to modern NASCAR, these races were incredibly dangerous and thrilling. The excitement began with a grand parade through the streets of Rome, building anticipation before the chariots arrived at massive arenas like the Circus Maximus, which could hold over 200,000 spectators.
Charioteers competed for teams distinguished by colors—red, white, blue, and green—each with a devoted fan base spanning all social classes. As the chariots raced at breakneck speeds around the 2,000-foot-long track, the roar of the crowd filled the air. Chariot racing wasn’t just a sport; it was a powerful cultural phenomenon that united Roman society in excitement.
Explosive Communal Bathrooms in Ancient Rome
Ancient Rome’s sewer system was remarkable for its time. Built in the 6th century BC, the Cloaca Maxima was one of the earliest efforts to manage waste in a growing city. However, the system had its flaws—especially when it came to communal latrines, which were scattered throughout public areas. The buildup of gases like methane in these shared bathrooms was a serious issue.
Due to limited ventilation and vaulted sewer ceilings, dangerous gases accumulated over time, occasionally resulting in explosive incidents or even toilet fires. Though the Romans had made significant strides in sanitation, the primitive nature of their infrastructure made these unexpected explosions an unfortunate reality for those using the communal facilities.
How Pompey Lost the People’s Support
In ancient Rome, emperors knew that maintaining public favor was essential for political stability, often using the Roman Games to keep citizens entertained. However, even a respected leader like General Pompey could face backlash for misjudging public sentiment. During one of his Games, Pompey made the controversial decision to have 20 elephants brought out, one by one, to be hunted in front of the crowd.
This spectacle quickly went wrong when the distressed elephants tried to flee, visibly panicking. The audience empathized with the animals, and their mood shifted against Pompey. This miscalculation led to a dramatic fall in his popularity, turning him from a celebrated figure into one of the most criticized leaders in Roman history.
Witchcraft: A Belief Deeply Rooted in Roman Life
In ancient Rome, witchcraft and magic were a significant part of daily life—both revered and feared by the population. Despite numerous laws attempting to regulate the use of magic, it remained widespread, with many Romans seeking out witches or sorcerers for assistance. Common practices involved magical texts, binding curses, ritual figurines, and the casting of spells. During both the Republic and Imperial periods, poisons were sometimes used as magical potions, meant to serve purposes like silencing enemies or offering protection.
Magic was seen as a way to gain control over uncertain situations, and even though it was often regulated, it remained an enduring element of Roman society, blending the mystical with the everyday needs of the people.
The First Joke Book: Roman Humor in the Philogelos
Humor has been a constant throughout human history, and the Romans were no exception. Around the 3rd or 4th century, during the decline of the Roman Empire, they compiled the Philogelos, believed to be the first joke book ever written. Its title translates to “The Laughter Lover” and includes 265 jokes touching on themes like marital infidelity, bodily functions, and social stereotypes.
Though it’s hard to know if these jokes would still make us laugh today, the Philogelos reveals that even the Romans enjoyed a good laugh. It serves as a reminder that the desire for humor is timeless, and even ancient civilizations sought to use jokes to entertain and cope with the realities of life.
The Harsh Reality of Gladiator Life
Though often romanticized as the celebrities of ancient Rome, the lives of gladiators were far from glamorous. Despite their fame, these fighters lived harsh, controlled existences. They had to surrender all independence, effectively becoming enslaved to their lanista, the trainer who dictated every part of their lives, from intense training regimens to strict diets.
Most gladiators were social outcasts or former slaves, and entering the arena meant giving up their freedom entirely. For many, the bleak reality of being a gladiator led to extreme actions, including attempts to escape or, tragically, taking their own lives. Though admired by the public, gladiators paid a steep price for their notoriety, living lives marked by struggle, confinement, and danger.
The High-Rises of Ancient Rome: Housing for the Poor
Rome was one of the first cities to reach a population of over one million, leading to a housing challenge in its crowded streets. To accommodate everyone, Romans built upward instead of expanding outward, creating high-rise apartment buildings called “insulae,” some reaching up to 100 feet in height. These structures provided space for many, but living conditions varied based on wealth.
The lower floors, which were more stable and accessible, were reserved for those with more money. The poorer residents, however, lived in the upper levels, which were prone to crumbling infrastructure and posed greater fire risks. These insulae highlighted the social divide, with the wealthy enjoying safer, more comfortable accommodations while the less fortunate faced the dangers of instability.
The Brutal Reality of Punishments for Roman Slaves
Life as a Roman slave could be harsh, and the experience often depended on the type of work assigned. Those working for landowners endured grueling physical labor, while city-owned slaves were tasked with constructing public buildings. The treatment of slaves was brutal, especially when it came to punishment.
If a slave owner died, all of their slaves could be tortured to uncover wrongdoing, and if one slave was accused of a crime, all could face execution. Emperor Augustus was infamous for his cruelty, sometimes throwing slaves into pools of eels as punishment. It wasn’t until Emperor Hadrian’s reign that laws were enacted to protect slaves from such extreme violence, making it illegal for owners to kill them.
Rome’s Tradition of Adopting Foreign Gods
As the Roman Empire expanded, the Romans often embraced cultural practices from the regions they conquered. A notable example was their willingness to incorporate foreign gods and goddesses into their own religious customs. Roman soldiers would even pray to the local gods of newly conquered cities, inviting these deities to join the celebrations in Rome. This practice of adopting foreign gods, called “syncretism,” allowed Romans to blend their beliefs with those of other cultures seamlessly.
One prominent example is Mithras, originally from Persian mythology, who gained popularity among Roman soldiers and became an important deity in their rituals. This openness to incorporating different gods reflected Rome’s adaptable nature and the diverse influences that shaped its vast empire.
Caesar’s Games: The Costly Path to Fame
Julius Caesar is one of the most iconic figures in Roman history, and his role as host of the Roman Games contributed significantly to his fame. To captivate the audience, Caesar often made grand promises—and spared no expense to deliver on them.
He imported exotic animals from Africa and once orchestrated a fight involving 320 gladiators clad in silver armor, all to create a spectacle like no other. However, this relentless pursuit of grandeur came at a significant cost. Caesar’s lavish games left him with enormous debt, as he sought to win public favor and solidify his path to becoming Emperor. His financial gamble paid off in influence, but not without pushing him into a precarious financial position.
A Peculiar Bruise Remedy in Ancient Rome
Bruises were a common occurrence in ancient Rome, given the frequent brawls, crowded streets, and chaotic urban life. Roman medicine was a blend of science, religion, and the supernatural, resulting in some unconventional treatments. One particularly curious remedy for bruises involved using wild boar droppings.
Roman doctors would often dry boar droppings and soak them in vinegar before applying them to bruises, believing it helped with healing. Meanwhile, chariot racers, who frequently suffered from cuts and bruises, sometimes opted for fresh boar droppings for their supposed medicinal benefits. Though this treatment may seem bizarre by today’s standards, it reflects the resourcefulness and unique medical practices that characterized ancient Roman healthcare.
