Ancient Roman Bronze Hook

The vastness of the Roman Empire, surrounded by seas such as the Mediterranean, meant that fishing was a well-integrated part of the economy. Fish was a staple food of the everyday Roman diet, eaten by both the wealthy and common people alike. While some types of fish were viewed as a rare and expensive product, others were available on a large scale to the masses. Marine life can be observed in different areas of Ancient Roman society and culture, as a subject of art and literature, as well as for both recreational and economic purposes.