Discover the world of Ancient Rome Author: Harry
The Romans were the people who lived in the Roman Empire. Their civilisation began in the city of Rome, in Italy. The Roman Empire became one of the largest empires in ancient history. At its height, it controlled lands across Europe, North Africa and parts of Asia. The Romans built roads, bridges, towns and huge buildings. They also had a powerful army that helped them expand their empire. But Roman life wasn't just about soldiers. Romans had families, schools, shops, farms, games and busy cities. Fun fact: The Romans used coins to buy and sell things, just like we use money today! 2
The Roman army was one of the most organised armies of the ancient world. Roman soldiers were called legionaries. They trained hard and followed orders from their commanders. A legionary usually carried a large shield called a scutum, a sword called a gladius, and a spear called a pilum. Roman soldiers often marched long distances. They built camps and roads as the Roman army travelled. The army helped Rome conquer and control many different lands. 🏛️ DID YOU KNOW? Roman soldiers could build a temporary military camp surprisingly quickly. The camp had organised areas for soldiers, officers and equipment. 3
Roman food depended on where people lived and how much money they had. Common foods included bread, olives, grapes, vegetables, cheese and fish. Wealthy Romans could enjoy more expensive foods and large feasts. Romans often used garum, a salty fish sauce, to add flavour to their meals. People usually ate with their hands or simple utensils. At a Roman feast, guests could recline while eating, talking and enjoying themselves. 🍇 DID YOU KNOW? The Romans grew grapes and used them to make wine, which was an important part of Roman life.
The Romans were brilliant builders. They built huge structures that were used for entertainment, religion, government and everyday life. One of their most famous buildings was the Colosseum in Rome. Thousands of people could watch events there. Romans also built aqueducts. These were structures that carried fresh water over long distances to towns and cities. They built strong roads and bridges too. Some Roman roads were so well made that parts of them still exist today! 🏛️ DID YOU KNOW? Roman builders used arches to make strong structures. Arches helped them build larger bridges, buildings and aqueducts.
Religion was an important part of Roman life. The Romans believed in many gods and goddesses, and different gods related to different parts of life. Jupiter was the king of the gods and related to the sky and thunder. Mars was the god of war and was especially important to the Roman army. Venus was associated with love and beauty. Neptune was the god of the sea. Romans built temples where people could worship their gods and make offerings. ⚡ DID YOU KNOW? The Romans often adopted or changed ideas from the cultures they encountered. Some Roman gods had similarities to gods from ancient Greece.
Some Roman children went to school, especially children from wealthier families. Students could learn reading, writing and mathematics. Older students might study subjects such as grammar, literature and public speaking. Roman teachers often wrote lessons on wax tablets using a pointed tool called a stylus. Not every child received the same education. Many children from poorer families learned skills by helping their parents or working. ✏️ DID YOU KNOW? The Romans used Roman numerals. You can still see them today! For example: I=1 V=5 X = 10 L = 50 C = 100
The Romans built a huge network of roads across their empire. These roads helped soldiers, traders and travellers move from place to place. Roman roads were carefully constructed with layers of stone and other materials. Some were built so well that parts have survived for hundreds or even thousands of years. The Romans also travelled by ship across the Mediterranean Sea and other waterways. Roads helped connect towns and cities, making it easier to transport people, messages and goods. 🪨 DID YOU KNOW? The famous saying “All roads lead to Rome” relates to the huge network of Roman roads that spread across the empire.
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