Cave Canem

 

The History Archives 
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A 2,000-year-old tile floor at the entrance of a home in Pompeii has a message that's instantly recognizable: 'Beware of the Dog.'

This famous mosaic, known as "Cave Canem," was found at the entrance of a lavish building called the House of the Tragic Poet.

It depicts a large, chained dog, looking ready to protect the home. The words "Cave Canem" are written clearly below the animal.

The city of Pompeii was tragically buried under volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, preserving striking details like this for centuries.

While the city was destroyed in 79 AD, archaeologists date this particular mosaic back to the 2nd century BC.

When the house was excavated in 1824, this sign gave a direct look into the daily life and concerns of the ancient Romans.

It's a common misconception that this was the only sign of its kind. In fact, similar "Beware of the Dog" mosaics have been found in other houses throughout Pompeii and the Roman Empire.

These warnings served a practical purpose, letting visitors know a guard dog was on the premises, much like the signs we use on our own fences today.

The mosaic remains one of the most vivid and relatable artifacts from the ancient Roman world, a simple warning that transcends time.

Sources: Archaeological records from Pompeii#CaveCanem #Pompeii #AncientRome