By the time of the emperor Trajan, the Roman empire encompassed the whole of the Mediterranean, Britain, much of northern and central Europe and the Near East.
117–235 C.E.
videos + essays
We're adding new content all the time!
Ancient Sabratha
A Phoenician trading-post that served as an outlet for the products of the African hinterland, and which was Romanized in the 2nd and 3rd centuries.
Leptis Magna
Leptis Magna was one of the most beautiful cities of the Roman Empire, with its imposing public monuments, harbor, market-place, storehouses, shops and residential districts.
Amphitheater of El Jem
The impressive ruins of the largest colosseum in North Africa, a huge amphitheater which could hold up to 35,000 spectators, are found in the small village of El Jem
The Severan Tondo: damnatio memoriae in ancient Rome
A family drama —Caracalla assassinates his brother and damns his memory.
Rome’s layered history — the Castel Sant’Angelo
A tomb, a prison, the site of a miracle, papal apartments — this building has as many layers as Rome itself.
The Arch of Septimius Severus, portal to ancient Rome
One of the most impressive monuments on the Roman Forum
The importance of the archaeological findspot: The Lullingstone Busts
What do we gain when works come from a well-documented excavation?
Severan marble plan (Forma Urbis Romae)
This ancient map served as an administrative tool for one of the largest empires in history.
Bronze head from a statue of the Emperor Hadrian
A bad case of acne or a political statement? Learn about Hadrian’s beard, political image, and accomplishments.
Hadrian: Building the wall
At the remotest point of the Roman Empire, Hadrian erected this fortification—a symbol of control and dominance.
Hadrian: The imperial palace, Tivoli
The Empire in miniature, see how Hadrian’s Villa served as a space for both business and pleasure.
The Pantheon (Rome)
The Pantheon has one of the most perfect interior spaces ever constructed—and it’s been copied ever since.
Browse Smarthistory images for teaching & learning!
