Ancient Roman Officers May Have Kept Pet Monkeys to Highlight Their Status

There were numerous ways in which the elites of ancient Roman society displayed their wealth, such as constructing grand villas, funding lavish games, and importing luxurious goods. Military leaders, particularly those stationed at an Egyptian port, may have showcased their status through the companionship of pet monkeys. This revelation stems from the examination of 35 monkey burials discovered in an ancient animal cemetery located in Berenike on the east coast of Egypt.