Roman Gods and Religion in the Empire

Explore the complex religious life of ancient Rome, where religion played a vital role in the political, social, and personal aspects of people's lives. From the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus in Rome’s port city of Ostia to local shrines and colossal structures like the Pantheon, the ancient Romans worshipped a pantheon of gods, some local and others imported from across the Mediterranean.

Explore how Roman emperors, such as Hadrian and Marcus Aurelius, shaped not only the political landscape but also fashion trends and cultural movements. Hadrian, for instance, popularized wearing a beard, which became fashionable for a century after his reign. Roman gladiators, actresses, musicians, and authors, rose to prominence through their performances.

Explore the role of water in ancient Rome, a city sustained by 12 aqueducts that supplied its fountains, bathhouses, and even private homes. Rome’s population reached one million, an unprecedented number for antiquity, and the aqueducts were a marvel of Roman engineering, channeling water from natural springs into the bustling city.