Mamurra facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mamurra
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| Known for | Officer of Julius Caesar |
Mamurra was an important Roman military officer. He lived around the 1st century BC. He worked closely with Julius Caesar, a very famous Roman leader. Mamurra was known for his skills in engineering and building.
Contents
Mamurra: A Roman Engineer
Early Life and Family
Mamurra was from a city called Formiae in Italy. His family was likely well-known there. Some historians believe his full name might have been Marcus Vitruvius Mamurra. He belonged to the equestrian class. This was a wealthy and respected group in Roman society. His family may have owned a large estate near Formiae.
Military Career and Achievements
Mamurra served as a praefectus fabrum under Julius Caesar. This title means he was the chief of engineers. He helped Caesar's army build many amazing things. He worked with Caesar in Gaul, which is modern-day France. He also served in Britain, Pontus, and Hispania. This shows he was part of Caesar's army during the civil war too.
Famous Engineering Projects
Mamurra likely played a key role in several big projects. One was the quick building of a bridge over the Rhine river in 55 BC. This bridge allowed Caesar's army to cross easily. He also helped design new ships for Caesar's second trip to Britain in 54 BC. Another huge task was the double wall built around Alesia in 52 BC. This helped Caesar win a major battle.
Wealth and Public Life
Mamurra became very rich because of his military service. He also gained wealth from Caesar's support. According to ancient writers, he was the first Roman to have his entire house covered in marble. His home was on the Caelian Hill in Rome. He was also the first to use solid marble columns in his house.
The poet Catullus wrote some poems about Mamurra. These poems sometimes criticized him. However, Catullus later apologized for his words. Caesar then invited Catullus to dinner, showing no hard feelings.
Later Life
A letter from Cicero in 45 BC mentions Mamurra. The letter says Caesar showed no reaction when he heard news about Mamurra. Some people think this might mean Mamurra had died. However, the letter is not clear enough to be certain.
