The homes and buildings of Ancient Rome were a reflection of the society’s class structure, technological advancements, and cultural values. From the lavish villas of the wealthy elite to the modest dwellings of the working class, Roman homes varied greatly depending on wealth, status, and location. This article explores the different types of homes in Ancient Rome, their architectural features, and what these homes reveal about Roman life.

Types of Roman Homes

Domus (Wealthy Citizens)

The domus was the traditional home of wealthy Roman citizens, typically found in urban areas such as Rome itself. A domus was a single-family house that was often spacious and richly decorated. The layout of a typical domus reflected Roman values of order, functionality, and aesthetics.

• Atrium: The central feature of the domus was the atrium, a large open area with a roof that let in natural light. It was typically surrounded by rooms and used for various purposes, including receiving guests, family gatherings, and religious rituals. In many homes, the atrium had a small pool or basin in the center (called a impluvium) to collect rainwater from the roof.

• Tablinum: Located at the back of the atrium, the tablinum was a room used by the head of the household for business and administrative purposes. It often served as an office or a space to receive clients and guests.

• Cubicula: These were small bedrooms, often located on the sides of the atrium or at the rear of the house. Wealthier individuals had several cubicula, while poorer Romans might have fewer rooms.

• Triclinium: The triclinium was the dining room, named after the three couches (or "lecti") where guests reclined while eating. Roman dining was a social and ceremonial event, and the triclinium was often richly decorated, with beautiful frescoes and mosaics on the walls.

• Peristylium: Behind the main part of the house, the peristylium was a courtyard surrounded by columns. It was often a beautiful garden with fountains, statues, and plants, where family members could relax or entertain guests. The peristylium was one of the hallmarks of the Roman domus, symbolizing wealth and refinement.

Insulae (The Working Class)

While the elite lived in expansive domus, the majority of Romans resided in insulae (plural of insula), which were apartment buildings that housed the lower and middle classes. These insulae were often multi-story structures, built from brick or wood, and located in crowded urban areas.

• Multistory Design: Insulae were typically five or six stories high, with the wealthier residents occupying the lower floors (which were safer and more comfortable) and the poorer residents living on the upper floors. These upper floors were often cramped, with poorly ventilated rooms and shared spaces.

• Basic Amenities: The apartments in an insula were small and simply furnished, often with just the basic necessities such as a bed, a small table, and a few personal belongings. Cooking was usually done on an open fire, and sanitation facilities, such as latrines, were shared by several apartments.

• Lack of Privacy: Privacy was a luxury that most Romans living in insulae could not afford. Many families shared walls, and some shared entire floors. Noise and lack of space were common complaints in these crowded buildings.

Villa (Rural Dwellings)

Outside the urban areas, wealthier Romans often had a villa, which was a large country estate. These villas were designed for relaxation, farming, and leisure and were situated in the countryside, away from the bustle of city life. They came in various sizes, from simple country homes to grand estates with extensive gardens, pools, and agricultural land.

• Villa Rustica: The villa rustica was a working farm, typically with space for the owner and their family, as well as laborers who worked the land. These villas had agricultural areas, such as vineyards, orchards, and fields, and often included accommodations for slaves and farm workers.

Villa Urbana: The villa urbana was more of a luxurious retreat, often with intricate gardens, baths, and elaborate dining rooms. It could be compared to a modern-day summer home or resort, where Roman elites would go to escape the heat and noise of the city. shutdown123