Unveiling a Surprising Sexual Liberation
Discover the sexually liberated world of the ancient Romans and Greeks, where sex was openly celebrated and discussed. From phallic bricks in Pompeii to scandalous rituals and explicit artwork, their attitude toward sexuality was far from what we might expect from ancient civilizations.
Let’s delve into 10 kinky tendencies that will surprise and perhaps shock you!
10 Phallic Bricks of Pompeii: Unearthing the City of Sin
Photo credit: Aleks & Nemo
Explore the remnants of Pompeii, where over 40 brothels flourished, providing pleasure without shame. Witness the “phallic bricks” guiding the way to pleasure houses and the bold symbols of good luck displayed above their doors.
09 Voyeurism: A Pervasive Theme in Ancient Art
Observe the intriguing artwork depicting voyeurism, where the act of watching and being watched was a prevalent theme. The Gabinetto Segreto in Naples houses a collection of erotic art from ancient Rome, unveiling the provocative nature of ancient Greek Maenads’ depictions.
08 The Wife-Sharing Economy: Etruscan Customs Preserved
Explore the Etruscan civilization’s liberated attitude towards intercourse and nudity, where marriage was loose, and women enjoyed the pleasure of multiple partners. Discover the explicit frescoes on the Tombs of The Bulls, The Bigas, and The Floggings in Tarquinia.
07 Fruitful Contest of the Sexes: Rituals for Fertility
Uncover the ancient Greek rituals like Thesmophoria and Eleusinian Haloa, dedicated to fertility and indulgence. Women unleashed their sexual frustrations through playful activities and sexual symbols.
06 Fun at the Carnival: A World of Extravagance and Ecstasy
Experience the ancient Carnival, where inhibitions were thrown aside in a sea of food, wine, laughter, and sex. Discover how Dionysian Mysteries inspired Bacchanalia, leading to an uninhibited celebration of life.
05 Before Viagra, There Was Priapus: The Obsession with Phallus
Photo credit: Wikimedia
Meet Priapus, the Greek god with a perpetually erect phallus, revered on Earth for his sexual prowess. Dive into the Priapeia, a collection of poems celebrating his vulgarity.
04 They Threw Some Serious Shade: Hipponax’s Legendary Insults
Photo credit: Wikimedia
Encounter Hipponax of Ephesus, renowned for his raunchy and lewd insults in ancient Greece. Delve into his poetic spats that drove some victims to the brink.
03 Using Sex for World Peace: Aristophanes’ Battle of the Sexes
Explore Aristophanes’ play Lysistrata, where women employ sex to compel peace between warring Athenians and Spartans. Witness how sexual desire reminded men of the greater purpose.
02 “Ars Amatoria”: Ovid’s Guidebook for Lovers
Unveil Ovid’s “Ars Amatoria,” a guide to love and seduction, with cunning advice for both men and women. Discover the manipulation tactics and sexual strategies to keep lovers intrigued.
01 Martial: The Shockingly Obscene Poet
Encounter Martial, the Roman poet famous for his explicit and obscene language. Uncover his audacious insults, hinting at the surprisingly high tolerance for sexual expression in ancient society.
The ancient Romans and Greeks had a liberated and open approach to sex that may challenge modern sensibilities. Their uninhibited celebrations, scandalous rituals, and bold artwork depict a society unafraid of embracing its primal desires. These kinky tendencies offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of human sexuality throughout history.
