Historical Events tagged with "roman"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Exploration & Discovery

Discovery of the Hoxne Hoard

November 16th, 1992 32 years ago

Eric Lawes, a metal detectorist, discovered a significant hoard of Roman coins and artifacts in Hoxne, Suffolk. The find comprised over 15,000 coins along with exquisite silver and gold objects, dating back to the late Roman period. This remarkable discovery was made while Lawes was searching a plowed field with his metal detector. The Hoxne Hoard is renowned for its size and the quality of the items, leading to great excitement in the archaeological community and capturing widespread media attention.

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Exploration & Discovery

Peter Marsden Uncovers Blackfriars Ships

September 6th, 1962 62 years ago

Archaeologist Peter Marsden led an excavation in the Blackfriars area of London, where he discovered the remains of a wooden ship dating back to the second century AD. This significant find enhanced the understanding of maritime trade and shipbuilding in Roman Britain. Marsden’s work was pivotal in revealing the historical context of London’s riverfront and the development of ancient seafaring techniques. The discovery provided tangible evidence of the Roman presence in the area, deepening insights into the everyday life of that era.

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Arts & Culture

Construction Begins of Pisa's Iconic Campanile

August 9th, 1173 851 years ago

Construction of the campanile of the Cathedral of Pisa, also known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, began in 1173. This architectural feat was initiated to complement the Cathedral in the Piazza dei Miracoli, showcasing Romanesque style design. The tower, characterized by its iconic lean, started as a freestanding bell tower but faced significant structural challenges soon after construction began. Over the next two centuries, the complexity and uniqueness of the structure would evolve, leading to its status as a global symbol of architectural ingenuity and artistic expression.

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Religion & Philosophy

Consecration of Westminster Abbey by Edward

December 28th, 1065 959 years ago

The Romanesque monastic church at Westminster Abbey was consecrated by King Edward the Confessor. This significant ceremony marked the formal dedication of the structure, which Edward envisioned as a grand house of worship. The Abbey, located in Westminster, London, became a pivotal site for royal ceremonies and religious practices. Its design and features reflected the Romanesque architectural style, showcasing the king's aspirations for both a domestic and spiritual legacy.

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Politics & Government

Romanos Lekapenos Becomes Regent in Constantinople

March 25th, 919 1105 years ago

Romanos Lekapenos, a Byzantine admiral, seized control of the Boukoleon Palace and was appointed regent for the young emperor Constantine VII. This move was politically motivated, as Lekapenos aimed to strengthen his position and influence in the Byzantine Empire while managing the transition of power for the child emperor. His rise marked a significant moment in Byzantine political history, showcasing the power struggles within the imperial court.

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Crime & Law

Issuance of the First Corpus Juris Civilis

April 7th, 529 1495 years ago

The First Corpus Juris Civilis, also called the 'Body of Civil Law', was commissioned by Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian I to consolidate and reform the complex legal materials of the Roman Empire. The work aimed to streamline laws and remove inconsistencies, making them more accessible to the populace and legal professionals alike. This monumental legal compilation included the Codex Justinianus, the Digest, the Institutions, and later the Novellae, serving as a foundational legal reference that influenced many modern legal systems. Its issuance marked a significant milestone in the evolution of Roman law, which carried profound implications for the administration of justice in the Byzantine Empire and beyond.

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Politics & Government

Theodosius II publishes Codex Theodosianus

February 15th, 438 1587 years ago

Theodosius II, the Eastern Roman Emperor, issued the Codex Theodosianus, a compilation of Roman laws to unify and streamline the legal system. This codification was initiated after the emperor recognized the complexities and inconsistencies in the existing legal texts. The project aimed to create a single authoritative source, improving legal access and governance throughout the empire. The Codex was primarily crafted by a commission of legal experts, showcasing Theodosius II's commitment to reforming the legal landscape of the Eastern Roman Empire.

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Politics & Government

Marriage of Emperor Arcadius and Aelia Eudoxia

April 27th, 395 1629 years ago

Emperor Arcadius married Aelia Eudoxia, the daughter of Frankish general Flavius Bauto, creating a political alliance. This marriage was significant as it linked the Eastern Roman imperial family with a prominent military family, solidifying Arcadius’ position and influence. Aelia Eudoxia later became a powerful empress, known for her involvement in political affairs and her ability to shape the imperial court. Her reign was marked by events that highlighted her influence during a turbulent time in the Roman Empire.

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Arts & Culture

The Graffito of Esmet-Akhom Written

August 24th, 394 1630 years ago

The Graffito of Esmet-Akhom is the latest known inscription in Egyptian hieroglyphs. It was discovered in the city of Luxor, Egypt, and represents a significant milestone in the study of ancient Egyptian writing. This graffito provides valuable insights into the linguistic and cultural practices of the time. Written by a priest named Esmet-Akhom, the inscription contains details about temple activities, divine honors, and societal norms that prevailed during that period, showcasing the continued use of hieroglyphs even as the Roman Empire dominated the region.

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