Types of Ancient Roman Goods
The Roman Empire was a major force in the ancient world and its citizens had access to a wide range of goods. The main objects that were sold in the marketplaces of Rome ranged from everyday necessities to luxurious goods. Ancient Roman citizens had access to a variety of foods, clothing, furniture, tools, and much more. Here, we will explore the types of goods the ancient Romans would have had access to.
Food
Food was essential for the ancient Roman citizens, and there was an abundance of food varieties to choose from. Common food sold at the Roman marketplace included fruits and vegetables from local farmers, grains from millers, dry goods from spice vendors, and salt from fishermen. In addition, meat and fish were commonly sold at the marketplaces. You could find everything from salted pork to freshwater fish. Meat and fish vendors would often prepare their goods to be cooked quickly and conveniently at home.
Clothing
Clothing was another important part of life in the Roman Empire, and citizens had access to a range of clothing types and styles. Clothing boutiques in the marketplace would offer clothing made from a variety of materials, including wool, linen, and sometimes even leather. People could buy clothing for all occasions, such as everyday items, ritual garments, and military uniforms. In addition to these items, Roman citizens could purchase accessories such as jewelry, scarves, and hats.
Tools
Roman citizens could buy all kinds of tools from the marketplace. Tools such as hammers, chisels, saws, and axes were used for various tasks around the home. Additionally, tools to cultivate the land and craft items were also available. Ancient Roman tools can still be found today in museums and private collections.
Luxury Goods
In addition to the essential items mentioned before, luxury goods were also available for purchase in the Roman marketplace. Ancient Romans had access to fine jewelry, pottery, carpets, and other items that would be considered luxury goods today. Luxury goods were often not affordable to most people, but the wealthy citizens of Rome certainly had the money to purchase these items.
Spices and Herbs
The sale of spices and herbs was popular in the Roman marketplace. Spices were used to flavor and preserve food, while herbs were used for medicinal purposes. Many of the herbs used in ancient Rome for medical purposes are still used today, such as lavender and thyme.
Entertainment
The Roman Empire was renowned for its entertainment. The marketplaces were full of vendors selling all kinds of items to enjoy, such as games, toys, and souvenirs. There were also many musicians and performers that entertained the citizens of Rome. Theater performances and concerts were popular in the Roman Empire, and these were often held in the marketplaces or nearby amphitheaters.
Animal Goods
Animals, such as horses and donkeys, were an important part of life in the Roman Empire. The marketplaces would often have vendors selling animal goods, such as saddles, bridles, and other riding gear, and livestock, such as chickens and goats. Animals were used for many purposes, including farming and transportation.
Money Exchange
People in the ancient Roman Empire could exchange coins for goods at the marketplace. Coins were made from bronze, silver, and gold, and were used to purchase items from vendors. Merchants would often offer goods in exchange for coins, and customers would pay by handing over the appropriate number of coins.
Building Materials
The ancient Roman marketplaces were also a popular place to find building materials. Here, one could purchase stone, bricks, clay, timber, and other items used in construction. Roman construction was known for its durability and ingenuity, and many of the buildings still standing today were built using the same materials that were sold in the marketplaces of Rome.
Religious Goods
The ancient Romans had a long-held tradition of honoring their many gods and goddesses, and the marketplaces of Rome were full of vendors offering religious goods dedicated to these gods and goddesses. These items included ritual objects, statues, and even magical scrolls with prayers dedicated to the gods.
Collections and Memorabilia
The ancient Romans also enjoyed collecting items of historical significance. The marketplaces were full of traders selling coins, jewelry, coins, and other memorabilia from the Roman Empire. Artifacts from the Roman Empire still remain today, and these were some of the items that were commonly collected in the Roman marketplaces.
Overview
The ancient Roman Empire had a vast array of goods available for purchase in its marketplaces. Everyday necessities, luxury goods, tools, entertainment, building materials, and religious items were just a few of the items that could be found in the Roman markets. Additionally, money could be exchanged for other goods and collections of memorabilia were available for purchase. The citizens of Rome had access to a wide range of goods, and many of these items are still used and admired today.
