Category: How was it made?
How Was It Made? is an inspiring exploration into the timeless legacy and craftsmanship behind some of Rome’s most iconic traditions and expressions. From architectural wonders like the Colosseum and intricate Roman engineering, to lesser-known historical anecdotes and idioms, How Was It Made? takes you behind the scenes to uncover the origin stories of everyday Roman marvels. In this collection of articles, you’ll learn not only the methods used to shape the Eternal City but also how ancient practices continue to influence modern culture and language. Whether it’s the secrets of Roman concrete or the tales behind street names, this category celebrates the ingenuity that makes Rome unforgettable.
-
What’s the Origin of “Caput Mundi” (Capital of the World)?
The phrase Caput Mundi, or “Capital of the World,” captures the spirit of Rome’s dominance in the ancient world. It’s a Latin term meaning “head of the world,” and it highlights the cultural, military, and political influence Rome had over the Mediterranean and beyond for centuries. But how did this phrase come to embody Rome,…
-
How did romans transport travertine blocks?
Transporting travertine from Tivoli to ancient Rome required ingenuity and strength. The journey involved 30 kilometers (about 18.5 miles) across uneven terrain, a feat accomplished without modern technology. Romans initially used oxen-drawn sleds to pull the massive stones along dirt paths. For larger pieces, they engineered wooden rollers or wheeled carts, easing the load over…
-
From Palatine to “Palace”: How Did the Word Originate?
When we think of a “palace,” we often imagine grandeur, towering columns, and luxurious residences of royalty or nobility. But have you ever wondered where the word itself comes from? The answer lies in Rome’s own Palatine Hill—one of the city’s famous seven hills and the birthplace of a term we use worldwide today. A…