Caecilia Metella facts for kids

Caecilia Metella was a common name for women in ancient Rome, especially within the powerful Caecilius Metellus family. This family was very important in Roman politics and society for many centuries. When you hear the name Caecilia Metella, it often refers to one of these notable women:

• Caecilia Metella (daughter of Balearicus)
• Caecilia Metella (daughter of Celer)
• Caecilia Metella (daughter of Delmaticus)

The most famous Caecilia Metella was likely the daughter of Lucius Caecilius Metellus Delmaticus. She was known for her marriage to a very powerful Roman leader named Lucius Cornelius Sulla.

Caecilia Metella and Sulla

Caecilia Metella, daughter of Delmaticus, became the fourth wife of Lucius Cornelius Sulla. Sulla was a famous Roman general and politician who lived from 138 BC to 78 BC. He played a huge role in the late Roman Republic.

Who was Sulla?

Sulla was a brilliant military commander. He led Roman armies to many victories. He also became a very powerful political figure, even serving as a dictator. A dictator in ancient Rome was a special leader given full power during times of crisis. Sulla used his power to make big changes to the Roman government.

Their Family Life

Caecilia Metella and Sulla had two children together: a son named Faustus Cornelius Sulla and a daughter named Fausta Cornelia. Their marriage connected two of Rome's most influential families. Caecilia Metella passed away while Sulla was still alive. Her death was a sad event for Sulla, who held a grand public funeral for her.

The Tomb of Caecilia Metella

One of the most famous reminders of Caecilia Metella is her large tomb. It is located on the Appian Way, a very old and important road leading out of Rome. This tomb is a well-preserved example of Roman architecture.

What is the Appian Way?

The Appian Way (or Via Appia) was one of the earliest and most strategically important Roman roads. It connected Rome to Brindisi in southeast Italy. Many wealthy Romans built tombs along this road.

Design of the Tomb

The Tomb of Caecilia Metella is a large, round building. It stands on a square base. It was built from concrete and covered with a type of stone called travertine. The top part of the tomb has a decorative band called a frieze. This frieze shows ox skulls and garlands, which were common symbols in Roman art.

Why was it Built?

This impressive tomb was built by her son, Faustus Cornelius Sulla, to honor his mother. It shows the wealth and importance of the Caecilius Metellus family and their connection to Sulla. Today, the tomb is a popular historical site. It helps us understand Roman burial customs and engineering.

See also

• Caecilii Metelli