Roman Delights

While the Roman Empire is often associated with grandiose architecture, political intrigue, and military prowess, there's more to Roman life than meets the eye. Beyond the well-known aspects of Roman society, there were lesser-known routines and pleasures that reveal the unique texture of everyday life.

Morning Salutations: Greeting the Day

Romans began their days with a routine known as "salutatio." This custom involved clients (lower-ranking citizens, freedmen, or slaves) visiting their patrons (wealthy and influential citizens) in the morning to offer their greetings and services. The patron, in turn, provided financial support or political favors. Although it may seem unusual by modern standards, the salutatio was an essential aspect of the Roman social structure, fostering loyalty and a sense of community.

Emperor Augustus, for example, was known to receive salutations at his residence on the Palatine Hill. The historian Suetonius wrote that Augustus even once greeted a senator in his bedroom while still in bed, highlighting the informal nature of some of these morning visits.To truly understand the essence of Roman culture, one must delve into the daily routines, pleasures, and social activities that shaped this great civilization. The Roman people valued their time, and they sought out ways to enjoy life to its fullest. In this blog post, we will explore Roman baths, wines, foods, and social activities that defined Roman life. We will also give examples of how emperors and senators experienced these indulgences.

Toga Virilis: The Coming of Age Ceremony

The toga virilis ceremony was a rite of passage for Roman boys, marking their transition to adulthood. Usually held around the age of 16, the young men would trade their childhood tunics for a toga, symbolizing their entry into the world of adult responsibilities. This occasion was often accompanied by a family feast and a visit to the local temple to offer a sacrifice.

The future emperor Nero, for example, donned his toga virilis under the watchful eye of his mother, Agrippina the Younger, who sought to use the event as a display of her influence and ambition for her son.

Roman Baths: A Social and Hygienic Affair

Roman baths were more than just a place to cleanse one's body; they were a hub of social activity. People from all walks of life frequented these public bathing complexes, which could accommodate thousands of visitors. The bathhouses were a testament to Roman engineering and often included gyms, gardens, libraries, and even theaters. Emperors like Hadrian and Caracalla were known to build colossal bathhouses, such as the Baths of Caracalla, which covered an area of 33 acres.

Bathing was a daily ritual for many Romans, as cleanliness was considered essential. The process involved three stages: the tepidarium (warm room), the caldarium (hot room), and the frigidarium (cold room). After this progression, Romans would receive a massage and anoint their bodies with oils. The Roman bath was a place for relaxation, socializing, and business, often visited by high-ranking senators like Cicero and Pliny the Younger.

Wines: A Staple of Roman Life

Wine played a central role in Roman society, enjoyed by people of all classes. It was considered an essential part of the daily diet, and even children consumed a diluted version. Roman wines were often mixed with water, honey, or spices, and served warm.

The Romans were skilled viticulturists and expanded their vineyards throughout the empire. Emperors and senators had a penchant for fine wines, and many owned vineyards. Emperor Domitian even enacted a decree to limit vineyard production in the provinces to protect the Roman wine industry.

Foods: A Culinary Adventure

Roman cuisine was diverse and heavily influenced by the empire's vast territories. Meals typically consisted of three courses: appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Staple foods included bread, olives, cheese, and fruits, while meats, fish, and vegetables were reserved for wealthier citizens.

Notable emperors and senators enjoyed extravagant feasts, with exotic ingredients imported from the far reaches of the empire. The Emperor Nero was infamous for his lavish banquets, and Senator Apicius wrote a cookbook, "De Re Coquinaria," which detailed the preparation of numerous Roman dishes. Foods like stuffed dormice, peacock, and ostrich were considered delicacies among the elite.

While the Roman dinner, or cena, might be known as an elaborate and luxurious affair for the elite, the daily cena for ordinary Romans was a more modest event. The main meal of the day, cena typically took place in the late afternoon or early evening and was a time for families to come together.

In the home of a senator like Pliny the Younger, cena might include a variety of dishes made from seasonal ingredients, like lentils with coriander, cabbage, and figs. For the average Roman citizen, however, the cena would likely consist of a simple porridge called "puls," made from grains, water, and salt, and accompanied by bread, cheese, and vegetables.

Social Activities: Entertainment and Leisure

The Romans cherished their leisure time and engaged in various social activities. The Colosseum, Circus Maximus, and other venues hosted chariot races, gladiator games, and theatrical performances. Romans flocked to these events, which were often sponsored by emperors and high-ranking officials.

Dining parties, known as convivia, were a favorite pastime for the upper classes. Guests would recline on couches and enjoy food, wine, and entertainment, often lasting late into the night. Emperors like Augustus and senators like Lucullus were renowned for their grandiose dinner parties.