What is the meaning of a vomitorium?

The word ‘vomitorium’ does indeed come from the Latin root ‘vomere’ meaning ‘to vomit’ or ‘to spew forth’. But it does not refer to the contents of one’s stomach. A vomitorium is actually a passage or opening in a theatre (or amphitheatre), leading to or from the seating, through which the audience members would pass.

Why is it called a vomitory?

The word ‘vomitory’ is derived from ‘vomitorium’ which refers to a passage found beneath the seating through which an audience can exit at the end of an event. This originates from Roman times, when amphitheatres had vomitorium to allow the audience to leave.

Is the vomitorium real?

The vomitorium is clearly part of this group, but no ancient source actually employs the word to describe a place for post-prandial puking. It first appears in the Saturnalia of Macrobius, written in the 5th century AD. Vomitorium/vomitoria are still used today by archaeologists as architectural terms.

Did Romans eat and purge?

Actual ancient Romans did love food and drink. But even the wealthiest did not have special rooms for purging. To Romans, vomitoriums were the entrances/exits in stadiums or theaters, so dubbed by a fifth-century writer because of the way they’d spew crowds out into the streets.

What was a Roman vomitorium?

As far as pop culture is concerned, a vomitorium is a room where ancient Romans went to throw up lavish meals so they could return to the table and feast some more. It’s a striking illustration of gluttony and waste, and one that makes its way into modern texts.

Did Romans have a vomitorium?

As far as pop culture is concerned, a vomitorium is a room where ancient Romans went to throw up lavish meals so they could return to the table and feast some more. Actual ancient Romans did love food and drink. But even the wealthiest did not have special rooms for purging.

What is a VOM arena?

A vomitorium is a passage situated below or behind a tier of seats in an amphitheatre or a stadium, through which big crowds can exit rapidly at the end of a performance. The Latin word vomitorium, plural vomitoria, derives from the verb vomō, vomere, “to spew forth”.

Did the Romans have a vomitorium?

Why did Romans lie down to eat?

Bloating was reduced by eating lying down on a comfortable, cushioned chaise longue. The horizontal position was believed to aid digestion — and it was the utmost expression of an elite standing. “The Romans actually ate lying on their bellies so the body weight was evenly spread out and helped them relax.

Did Romans vomit at banquets?

“Given banquets were a status symbol and lasted for hours deep into the night, vomiting was a common practice needed to make room in the stomach for more food. The ancient Romans were hedonists, pursuing life’s pleasures,” said Jori, who is also an author of several books on Rome’s culinary culture.

What is a theatron in Greek Theatre?

Theatron: The theatron (literally, “viewing-place”) is where the spectators sat. The theatron was usually part of hillside overlooking the orchestra, and often wrapped around a large portion of the orchestra (see the diagram above).