Ancient Rome
Ancient Rome—first a republic and then an empire led by rulers such as Julius Caesar, Augustus Caesar, Caligula and Nero—was a vast and powerful domain that gave rise to the culture, laws, technologies and institutions that continue to define Western civilization.
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These rulers were often as innovative and ingenious as they were brutal and corrupt.
Their lives and value were defined almost solely in relation to men: their fathers and husbands. But some women found ways to claim their own power.
Find out why one of history's most legendary empires finally came crashing down.
Roman citizens could enter the arena for free to watch gladiator fights, mock naval battles, wild animal hunts—and plenty of death.
The Colosseum
Games in the Colosseum
The Roman Coliseum was an engineering marvel designed to seat close to 75,000 people.
3 Architectural Wonders of Ancient Rome
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Julius Caesar’s killers attempted to thwart a dictator. They inadvertently created an emperor.
What are the Ides of March? Meaning, history and why it became a bad omen.
Ancient Empires: Caesar and Spartacus
Two of the most known men in the history of ancient Rome are Gaius Julius Caesar and Spartacus.
Ancient Empires: Caesar as Dictator
Caesar consolidated his power and made himself dictator. Learn more in this exclusive clip from Ancient Empires.
Ancient Empires: Julius Caesar's Powerful Alliance Transforms Rome
Julius Caesar works his way up to becoming one of the most powerful people in Rome.
Deadly Gladiator Duels in Rome's Iconic Colosseum
The construction of the largest amphitheater in Rome has taken place and now history's most iconic duels commence.
Gladiatrix Revolutionizes Deadly Colosseum Combat
Gladiatorial combat takes a turn when women enter the arena.
How a Gruesome Epidemic Threatened the Roman Empire
When a major health crisis breaks out, a young scientist by the name of Galen is brought in to help.
How an Emperor Transformed into an Unforgiving Gladiator
Commodus revolutionized what it meant to be an emperor by going against the norm and becoming a gladiator.
How Christianity Divided the Roman Empire
An underground spiritual movement known as Christianity begins to spread through the empire.
Go Inside the Mysterious Labyrinth Under Rome's Colosseum
Rome's emperor orders a major renovation to prove himself.
What the Roman Empire Was Like
See what the Roman Empire was like at the time of Jesus' birth in this bonus clip from "Jesus: His Life."
The ancient Roman festival, held annually on February 15, was a precursor to Valentine’s Day.
When Julius Caesar crossed this small Italian river, he established history’s most famous point of no return.
See workouts inspired by civilizations around the world.
