The name of this arch - the Triumphal Arch of Constantine - might give away its purpose. It is a dedicated memorial to Constantine the Great, who was a Roman Emperor. In this guide, we will uncover all about the significance of this arch in Rome, as well as its history. The arch is worth [...]
Read moreIn the first century, the Emperor Domitian set up the biggest gladiator school and named it the Ludus Magnus. It served as a welcome centre for gladiators from all over the empire who would receive training as well as accommodation. Here, the gladiators would swot up on all the skills needed in preparation for the [...]
Read moreTraveling to Rome may be on your cards, but do you know how to do it right? You can choose to prepare a list of sites to visit or the things to do. Are you aware of the various aspects of Roman culture that you should be mindful of during your trip? Of course, you [...]
Read moreYou may have heard of the Mouth of Truth already given its fame in the old movie Roman Holiday starring Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn. Here you can find out all there is to know about it so that you can impress your travel buddies with your knowledge. What is the Mouth of Truth Rome? [...]
Read moreCompleted in 324 AD the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano attracts attention especially for its beautiful cloister. You may also not know that it is here - NOT St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican - that is the official seat of the Pope! The History of Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano The ancient [...]
Read moreOfficially known as the Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano, this basilica is located near the Colosseum. Like many great historic buildings in Rome, the church finds itself built on ruins - in fact, the Basilica of St Clement is built on not one but two sets of ruins! Background Originally a domestic home to [...]
Read moreThis gruesome method of capital punishment was one of a range of crazy “blood sports” practiced by the Romans at the turn of the millennia. Starting in the first century AD, not only Damnatio ad Bestias was a way to deal with criminals, but also a form of entertainment for Rome’s masses! What's the Damnatio [...]
Read moreJust what is a Ludi - or a Ludi Romani? Well, the Ludi Romani was a religious festival that took place in September of every year in ancient Rome. The exact origins of the festival are disputed. Some credit it to the Etruscan King Tarquinius Priscus who conquered Apiolae, others to Roman victories at lake [...]
Read moreWhat on earth is a Naumachia? Never heard of it? Googling it now because you saw it on a brochure about Rome? Well, we have the lowdown right here. Read on to learn the history of the sea battles... What was a Naumachia? The Naumachia (plural naumachiae) was a show sea battle that would take [...]
Read moreYou want to know more about Domus Aurea ? In 64 AD, Rome suffered a great fire. It was the summer, and the blaze lasted for nearly 10 days. It is estimated that over 66% of the city was destroyed. As the majority of Rome’s buildings were wooden framed, only 4 districts escaped devastation. Rumours [...]
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