Mosaics have a long history, but they are especially associated with ancient Rome. Made from tesserae (small, colored natural stones), marble, or glass pieces, mosaics decorated the floors and walls of temples, bathhouses, and villas across the Empire. Vibrant, vivid, and depicting all sorts of scenes, mosaics were an essential decorative element of any building. Centuries after they were created, many of these venerable compositions have survived and can be admired at archaeological sites or as treasured artifacts in museums and cultural centers. But where can you see some of the most mesmerizing Roman mosaics?
Click through and gaze upon the finest examples of this ancient artwork.