Ancient Rome

The internet has been going off lately in saying “men think of the Roman Empire far more than women.” People are sharing their personal “Roman Empires” as well as reactionary tweets, and we cannot get enough.&nbsp;

Men Can't Stop Thinking About The Roman Empire And It's Way Funnier Than We Expected

General

Julia Linger

Ancient History

The Appalachia is a sprawling expanse of precarious mountains, captivating forests, and an undeniable sense of magic. But nestled within this beautiful landscape are shadows filled with secrets and whispers of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/scary-cryptid-stories/sarah-blumert">spirits and bizarre creatures</a>. This region seems to exist in a perpetual embrace with the unknown and exudes a palpable air of mystery that lingers like the morning mist on its rugged peaks.If you ever find yourself wandering through the woods or the rich collection of small towns that have transcended time, you might be told stories of restless spirits or hear an unearthly screeching deep in the heart of the forest. But remember, if you think you see or hear something, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://exemplore.com/news/appalachian-motto">no, you didn't</a>.From the legendary Mothman to the enigmatic Sheepsquatch, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/creepy-appalachian-trail-stories/jacobybancroft">the Appalachia</a> is a treasure trove of tales that defy explanation. Here, the line between truth and lore becomes blurred, and one can't help but wonder whether the landscape gives birth to such folk tales or if the creatures really do walk the land.Let's jump into the untamed beauty of Appalachia and unveil the stories of the cryptids who may call this region home.&nbsp;

10 Appalachian Cryptids That Echo In The Hills With Ancient Mysteries

Appalachian Cryptids

Sonja Ska

Ancient Greece

There have been numerous <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/movies-and-shows-based-on-mythology-/ariannafelidae?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">TV shows about Greek mythology</a> over the years for us mere mortals to enjoy.&nbsp;While it may have been created thousands of years ago, Greek mythology continues to influence the modern world in new and exciting ways. Many would say our current fascination with superheroes has roots in ancient mythology and seeing the parallels between Superman and the gods would certainly support that theory. But you don't have to look too far to find connections. Mythology is fun and makes for great character archetypes, which is why there are such good shows about Greek and Roman mythology.Some shows take a direct approach to adapting mythology, such as the various shows centering around Hercules. Other take a more modern approach, such as the 90s series Cupid where the Greek god is tasked with making 100 couples fall in love.&nbsp;This list features the best <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/movies-and-shows-based-on-mythology-/ariannafelidae?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">Greek mythology TV series</a> of all time. You have the power of Zeus in your hands with the might to decide which shows make it to the top of the list and which ones are banished to the bottom.&nbsp;

The Greatest TV Shows About Or Inspired By Greek Mythology

TV Program

The Best Greek Mythology TV Series & Shows About Greco-Roman Gods

Ranker TV

Many civilizations throughout history have erected enormous buildings and other structures to secure their place in both the present and posterity. Indeed, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/whoa-historic-landmark-facts/alby-thompson">these landmarks</a> are sometimes the only evidence left of past cultures - mute testaments to their greatness.&nbsp;Throughout the world,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/ancient-monuments-still-standing/pierce-nahigyan"> impressive monuments from antiquity</a> still stand, and they are important not just as archaeological remains, but&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/ancient-tourism-facts/jim-rowley">also for tourism.</a> Every year, more fascinating facts emerge from these constructions of stone, brick, and mortar,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/whoa-monument-facts/mallory-weiler">shedding important light</a> on the people who produced them, allowing those in the present to gain some insight into the aspirations of those who came before.

Facts About 14 Ancient Monuments We Can't Believe We're Just Now Learning

Location

Thomas West

Artifacts from an ancient society are like timepieces from the past. Whether they're tomb goods associated with a royal figure or objects found at a newly discovered <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/whoa-beautiful-preserved-artifacts/melissa-higgins">archaeological site,</a> seeing a trinket, tool, or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/amazingly-preserved-ancient-items/mick-jacobs">everyday item </a>from hundreds - if not thousands - of years ago is simply incredible.Ancient Egyptian artifacts discovered over the centuries now <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/famous-artifacts-original-countries-want-back/megan-summers">reside in museums</a> worldwide. Many look familiar and may have been included in textbooks or documentaries. Others are relatively unknown to most eyes - these are the ones that really capture the imagination.Little-seen artifacts teach us a thing or two about a culture we already thought we knew. Vote up the ancient Egyptian artifacts that just showed you something new about the past.

11 Artifacts From Ancient Egypt We Can't Believe We'd Never Seen Before

Melissa Sartore

Lists about customs, rituals, and daily life in Ancient Rome and the Roman Republic, which ruled the Mediterranean from 8th Century BC until its spectacular collapse in 476 AD.

Rome If You Want To

Weird History

For many people in the modern world, ancient Rome is synonymous with excess, with lavish banquets and bloody sports taking place in the arena for everyone to see. The Romans have also become infamous for their tendency to betray one another, and many&nbsp;Roman emperors in particular<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/weird-deaths-of-kings/emily-mast"> died very weird and strange deaths</a>.&nbsp;Indeed, the higher one rose in the world of Roman politics, the more dangerous and uncertain life became. Those who <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/whoa-roman-emperor-facts/pierce-nahigyan">wanted such power for themselves</a> often went to very elaborate lengths to see to it they procured it. When it came right down to it, not even wearing the purple was enough to save one’s life.

The 15 Most Elaborate Betrayals Schemed Up By The Ancient Romans

Person

The Most Dramatic Times Ancient Romans Plotted Against Each Other

People have been living all around the world for literally thousands of years. Here are some of the most interesting things human beings have ever done (that we know about).

Fascinating Ancient History

Landmarks

You’re a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/ancient-tourism-facts/jim-rowley">tourist in the ancient Mediterranean</a>. Where do you go? Easy: Do a tour of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.The idea for a consolidated list of wonderful <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/history-monument-ancient-facts/thomas-west">man-made monuments</a> came from writers in the ancient world. For example, Antipater of Sidon, a Greek writer from the 100s BCE, wrote a poem celebrating some of the known world's most breathtaking sights. These places formed the core of the Seven Wonders.Revered in their day as evidence of humanity’s capacity for greatness, the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World were scattered across the eastern Mediterranean and further inland. From the Statue of Zeus at Olympia to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, these incredible structures captivated visitors.What made the Colossus of Rhodes so special? What do the Seven Wonders have to do with the origin of the word “mausoleum?" And which <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/egypt-pyramid-facts/thomas-west">ancient member of the list is still standing</a>? Read on to travel back to the ancient world and marvel at these Wonders.&nbsp;

Things We Learned About The Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World

Setareh Janda

Exercise

When you imagine elite fighters in the ancient era, chances are you&rsquo;ll think of the coordinated might of the Roman legion and the individual flair of the gladiator. There were similarities with how <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/workout-secrets-greeks/michael-muir?ref=profile_own" target="_blank">the Greeks</a> pursued fitness, but also some key digressions. By examining&nbsp;how both the <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/life-fighting-in-the-roman-front-lines/ryan-sargent" target="_blank">Roman legions</a> and the <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/ancient-roman-gladiator-facts/aaron-edwards" target="_blank">gladiators got into fighting shape</a>, we can still learn a great deal in the present day.

This collection looks at the uncompromising methods the Romans used in pursuit of martial excellence. From the forced marches of raw recruits to the plentiful helpings of barley, the fitness secrets of the Romans will be revealed.

The Actual Ways The Romans Got Fighting Fit

M. Muir

History

Forget the movie Apocalypto – the real Mayans of pre-Colombian America were more than stone pyramids and bloody rituals.&nbsp;From about 200 until the so-called “Mayan collapse” around 900 CE, the Maya people were at the height of their influence. They were one of many civilizations – like the Olmecs <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/aztec-facts/setareh-janda">and the Aztecs</a> – that animated Mesoamerica before the arrival of European colonizers.&nbsp;Clustered around the Yucatán peninsula, Maya culture was layered and complex, filled with masterful artwork, political networks, and thriving cities. They even had a written language that is preserved in artwork and bark-bound codex books.&nbsp;The Maya may <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/how-why-did-the-mayans-build-pyramids/bailey-benningfield">be remembered for their towering pyramids</a>, but they also created a unique world filled with richly expressed spirituality, sophisticated engineering, and everyday indulgences.&nbsp;

12 Facts About The Ancient Mayans

Mayan Facts

You've likely heard of the advanced skills of the Inca Empire. From creating a reliable system of measurement and communication to building a 25,000-mile road system, the Incas were brilliant, innovative people.&nbsp;However, like many native populations, they were bested by the Spanish conquistadors when they invaded in the mid-1500s. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/ways-conquistadors-killed-people/thaneeconomou">European conquerors stole or destroyed</a> much of the priceless Inca art and artifacts, so we must rely on stories and legends to build the narrative of what life was like for the Incas.&nbsp;However, there have been pockets found that give us a glimpse into the Inca ways - notably <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/middle-ages-events-outside-europe/melissa-sartore">Machu Picchu</a>, hidden away in the Andes of Peru. Additionally, there are people in South America who still speak the ancient language of Quechua - giving us even more insight into the society that popularized the language.&nbsp;We've rounded up some of the most interesting facts about the Inca Empire for you to enjoy.

Facts About The Inca Empire

Emily Mast

Whoa Facts

Whether tucked away between more modern structures built throughout their still thriving cities or standing alone amidst deserted landscapes, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/history-monument-ancient-facts/thomas-west">ancient landmarks</a> have the ability to inspire both excitement and intrigue. As gateways to the past, these <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/ancient-temple-facts/emily-mast">ancient temples</a> and monuments tell the unique history of civilizations who lived centuries before us - providing archaeological information where recorded written details of events are rarely found.&nbsp;Many of these <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/oldest-buildings-in-the-world-still-standing/pierce-nahigyan">surviving ancient buildings</a> and ruins are well-recognized as world travel destinations and backdrops to Hollywood film scenes. Still, while we may easily identify these iconic structures, there are always more elements of new knowledge to uncover. Below are some seriously head-turning facts we just learned about ancient landmarks.&nbsp;

Head-Turning Facts We Just Learned About Ancient Landmarks

Facts We Just Learned About Ancient Landmarks

Lauren Glen

Every existing ancient statue is an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/well-worn-statues-over-the-years/jgu">extreme survivor</a>. They've all been ravaged to some degree by time and circumstances ranging from the fall of empires to terrorist attacks to world wars. If they could talk, they'd have some fascinating stories to tell.&nbsp;At least they have us to speak for them, but we can only extract tiny pieces of the experience carved into their stone. Here are a few of the best fragments. (Note: We've used “ancient" to mean any statue 500 years old and older, which is different from historians' view of ancient history as having ended in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/ancient-historian#:~:text=Ancient%20means%20belonging%20to%20the,end%20of%20the%20Roman%20Empire.">roughly the 5th century CE</a>.)

12 Facts About Ancient Statues That Are Rock Solid

Facts About Ancient Statues That Are Rock Solid

Shane Fraser

Exploring the folklore, stories, and teachings in different cultures around the globe and throughout history.

Mythology Around the World

For us mere mortals, mythology and the world of ancient Greece and the gods has been a fascinating subject for thousands of years. So it makes sense that filmmakers have been drawing inspiration from Greek mythology almost since the advent of the medium. Mythological stories tend to be rich with drama, action, and betrayal, none more so than Greek mythology where humans lived in harmony or discord with their gods.&nbsp;These interactions often led to grand adventures that make for great movies. Other films like Hercules in New York and Mighty Aphrodite take elements from Greek mythology and place them in modern settings. Ideas like these have also been the basis for many <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-shows-about-greek-mythology/ranker-tv" target="_blank">TV shows about Greek mythology</a> as well.It’s really no wonder why popular directors like Zack Snyder, Oliver Stone, and the Coen&nbsp;brothers have all made movies that bring the Greek mythos to the silver screen. But which one of these movies is the best? You get to help decide by voting up your favorite Greek mythology movies. The best part is that you can vote for more than one, you’ll be helping other fans find out what to watch next. Thanks to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime, you can start watching a lot of these movies right now. &nbsp;

Oedipus Mayor

The Best Movies About Greek Mythology

Film

The 36 Best Greek Mythology Movies Of All Time

Ranker Film

When it comes to Greek mythology, some of the stories you'll find out there are pretty strange. Goddesses being birthed from clam shells, women being kidnapped by Hades, and plenty of stories of cheating god husbands (we're looking at you here, Zeus). But if you go past the more well-known myths, things start to get even weirder. Yes, those wacky gods on Mount Olympus have a serious strange streak that would shock even the most open-minded historian.This is not to say that that these Greek myths aren't entertaining. I mean, come on, hearing about gods impregnating clouds or mortals being cursed for eternity is just oodles of fun, right? Just keep in mind that these myths were meant as life lessons for the Greeks - though for a few of these, the meaning is either pretty obscure or just too weird to imagine.So, if you're up for a little lesson in <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/whoa-mythology-facts/alby-thompson" target="_blank">bizarre mythology</a>, read on. And if you take away two major points from these stories, we hope they're the following: Don't piss off the gods, because they're jerks; and Zeus really,&nbsp;really&nbsp;needs to learn to keep it in his pants.&nbsp;

The Weirdest, Most Disturbing Stories from Greek Mythology

The 15 Weirdest Stories from Greek Mythology

Laura Allan

Ancient Romans loved their sports and entertainment, and the Colosseum put on the grandest games in all of ancient Rome. With its <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/ancient-roman-gladiator-facts/aaron-edwards" target="_blank">gladiators</a>, interchangeable arenas, exotic animals, and the rare naval reenactment,&nbsp;being a spectator in&nbsp;the Roman Colosseum would have indeed been a spectacle.

Crowds of 50,000 people, spanning every region and socioeconomic class of the empire, gathered at the stadium to watch shows and get away from the <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/disgusting-imperial-rome/carly-silver" target="_blank">disgusting life</a> of everyday Rome. They enjoyed food, wine, music, and theatrics in a large venue,&nbsp;all paid for by the emperor himself.&nbsp;

At the Colosseum, the audience could munch on chickpeas while waiting for the mid-day execution,&nbsp;watch&nbsp;for lions and other exotic animals released through the arena&#39;s hidden trap doors from their cramped seats, or see&nbsp;Roman elites&nbsp;collecting&nbsp;sweat from a gladiator (they thought it was an aphrodisiac). Events held at the Colosseum were&nbsp;so varied and elaborate that&nbsp;onlookers never knew what to expect.

What It Was Like To Be A Spectator In The Roman Colosseum

Genevieve Carlton

What It's Like

Today, monuments in the ancient world, from the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/how-ancient-egyptians-moved-pyramid-blocks/stephanroget">Pyramids of Giza</a> to the Roman Pantheon to Cambodia's Angkor Wat, are some of the world's most popular tourism&nbsp;destinations. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/secret-rooms-in-historical-landmarks/jim-rowley">Historical landmarks</a> like these&nbsp;allow visitors to imagine what life would have been like thousands of years before their time, which is a major part of their appeal.But this is not a modern phenomenon. Ancient peoples flocked to tourist destinations for the same reasons people do today: to be enlightened, entertained, and energized.

What Tourism Was Like In The Ancient World

Jim Rowley

Ancient History lists at Ranker - The ultimate source for hundreds of ancient history lists and rankings