Bikini girls of Ancient Rome

PD Photo: Uncropped picture of all of the figures in the famous "bikini girls" mosaic found by archeological excavation of the ancient Roman villa del Casale near Piazza Armerina in Sicily. This shows women exercising, running, or receiving the palm of victory and wreath for winning an athletic competition.

The mosaic also shows (at the lower left) a non-bikini figure, perhaps a games official, rushing in with a wreath and palm-leaf to crown the winner. Also note that these bikinis are not swimwear or swimsuits, but sportswear. But, the styling and fashion are also remarkably similar to some of the modern day swimwear and bikinis.

Mosaic of Minerva by Elihu Vedder

Photo: Mosaic of Minerva by Elihu Vedder situated in the central arched panel leading to the Visitor's Gallery in the Second Floor, East Corridor, Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building, Washington D.C.

The caption on the exhibit reads, "Pictured on this mosaic in the arched panel is the Roman Goddess Minerva -- guardian of civilization”. The Roman Goddess Minerva is portrayed as ‘Minerva of Peace’, but according to the artist who created the mosaic, American painter Elihu Vedder (1836-1923), the peace and prosperity that she enjoys was attained only through war. Source: Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division.

Alexander fighting Persian King Darius III

This image of Alexander the Great (Alexander III of Macedon, 356-323 BC), the king of Macedon, on his horse Bucephalus fighting the Persian King Darius III, is from Alexander Mosaic from Pompeii, Naples National Archaeological Museum. He held such varied titles as Hegemon of the Hellenic League, Shahanshah of Persia, Pharaoh of Egypt and Lord of Asia.

Alexander, credited in history as the conqueror of one of the largest empires in ancient history, had classical Greek education as a student of the famed philosopher Aristotle, and succeeded his father Philip II of Macedon to the throne in 336 BC after the King was assassinated. He died thirteen years later at the age of 32 in Babylon. Though Alexander's reign and empire were short-lived, the impact of his conquests lasted for centuries. He is remembered for his tactical ability and for spreading Greek culture to the East, heralding Hellenistic civilization.