The Roman Empire was once one of the biggest empires in the world, stretching over the Mediterranean, Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa at its height. Once consolidated under Octavian’s sole rule in 27 BC, the empire stayed strong for hundreds of years before collapsing in 476 AD. Learn more about their storied past with these six interesting facts about Roman history, ranging from eating habits to infrastructure.
6. Roman Battle Tactics
Interesting Facts About Roman History: During battles, a Roman soldier would first hurl his spear at the enemy, then fight the intruders with his sword. To protect himself, the soldier would carry a wooden shield and wore a metal helmet and armor.
Romans were known for their impressive fighting skills, employing a variety of formations against invaders and creating shield walls to defend against enemy attacks. Most battles during this time would start with light skirmishes against the opposition and then turn over to the heavy infantry. This might include horseback riders, cannons, or other large weapons.
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5. “Unconventional” Eating Habits
Interesting Facts About Roman History: Romans enjoyed their food but would often lie down on a couch while eating with their hands. This was believed to help aid digestion and reduce bloating. Romans would occasionally eat with a spoon but never a fork or knife.
While it may seem weird, there were several reasons why Romans preferred to eat horizontally. Other than the belief of helping digestion and bloating, it was thought that eating while lying on your belly would help relaxation. Elite Romans also used this eating style to display their status while meeting with others.
4. The Legend of Remus and Romulus
Interesting Facts About Roman History: Roman legend says that Romulus (the founder of Rome) had a twin brother, Remus. They were abandoned as babies and raised by a she-wolf, but when they grew up Romulus fought and killed Remus to become the first ruler.
While the possible historical basis for this legend is continually up for debate, it’s interesting to dive into the story. Roman mythology has Romulus and Remus as brothers, with their father, King Amulius, ordering them to be killed because he saw them as a threat to the throne. Abandoned on the bank of the river Tiber, they were saved by the god Tiberinus, Father of the River, and raised by a she-wolf known as the Lupercal. As the two grew up they became natural leaders in their communities, with Romulus taking his brother’s life for the throne.
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3. “All roads lead to Rome”
Interesting Facts About Roman History: The Romans built a road network of 53,000 miles by the early fourth century. A Roman mile was about 4,800 feet and marked by a milestone, giving birth to the famous saying “All roads lead to Rome.”
The Roman road system extended from Britain to the Tigris-Euphrates River system and from the Danube River to Spain and northern Africa. These roads were mostly used for military reasons but were also useful for travelers and traders. The Roman roads were known for their straightness, solid foundation, drainage ability, and use of concrete made from volcanic ash and lime.
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2. The Roman God/Goddess Pantheon
Interesting Facts About Roman History: The Romans believed in gods and goddesses who ruled over different areas of life. Temples were built to honor the gods, and people would visit with offerings or prayers.
Some Roman gods were native to Rome, while others were borrowed from other cultures, particularly Greece. For instance, Neptune is the Roman god of the ocean, while Poseidon is the Greek version. The Romans believed these gods played a role in the founding of Rome and influenced daily life, so they were often worshipped throughout the cities.
1. Romans and their Aqueducts
Interesting Facts About Roman History: To bring water into their cities, the Romans built a series of aqueducts, a system of channels and bridges to transport water for public baths and toilets.
One of the most impressive feats of the Romans was their aqueduct system, which stretched throughout their Empire, bringing water from outside sources into bustling cities and towns. The aqueducts supplied public baths, latrines, fountains, mining operations, milling, farming, and private households. The first aqueduct was built in 312 BC, and by the 3rd century AD, Rome had eleven aqueducts. Some of these are still in use today.
