Caupona

Caupona (Latin: caupona) is a common name for ancient Roman inns or inns in cities and key logistics points on major roads,as well as establishments where drinks and snacks were sold. Most likely,for urban residents,Kaupon and Popin were analogs. However,in written sources,kaupona in villages and small towns was considered a prestigious place where passing travelers usually stopped. In cowpons,as in other drinking establishments,prostitution was widespread,and spare rooms inside the establishments could be used as a brothel.

Urban Setting

The caupona formed part of the everyday infrastructure of a Roman town and road. It could provide food, wine, lodging or rest, but its social status was lower than that of an elite private house. The caupona therefore reveals the world of craftsmen, travellers, traders and urban poor.

Archaeological Features

Such establishments are recognised by counters, hearths, vessels for wine and food, signs, graffiti and room layout. Pompeii and other towns show that cauponae could be closely connected with street trade and rented housing. For reenactment this is an image of living Rome, not ceremonial Rome.

Related topics

Thermopolia - club activity,Thermopolium,Popina

Literature

Horace. Sat 1.5.

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