Think you know what ancient Rome was like? Think again. Here are five fascinating and surprising facts about one of the most famous empires in human history.
1. Chariot racing was more popular than gladiator fights.
Everyone thinks about gladiators when talking ancient Rome, However this form of entertainment was dwarfed by chariot racing.
Modern archaeologists have estimated that the gladiator Colosseum could hold 50,000 roman spectators, while the home of the chariot races, Circus Maximus could hold over 250,000 fans.
"Roman charioteers earned more than even the best-paid footballers and international sports stars of today, according to academic research. One charioteer, named Gaius Appuleius Diocles, amassed a fortune equivalent to $15 billion USD today."
2. The Roman Empire wasn't even that big.
The Roman Empire at it's peak was only the world's 28th largest empire. Ancient Rome only included 12% of the world population.
The top two in history are the British Empire (1920) and the Mongol Empire.
3. Ancient Rome was super crowded.
Think New York City is crowded? Try 6 times the population density of NYC and you'll get an idea of how crowded Rome was.
4. Rome had a horse for a senator.
The Roman Emperor Gaius Caligula is said to have made his horse a senator.
5. The Romans built damn good dams.
There are currently two Roman dams in Spain that are 1900 years old and still in use.
Proserpina Dam, Spain. [earth dam with stone on top]
If you are interested in even more interesting facts about ancient Rome, check out the source.
