Ancient times

(before the Common Era)

The age when humans took their first steps in understanding nature and forming early relationships with animals. It was a time when people began to realise that animals were not only a source of food but also powerful allies in the struggle to survive. Relationships with animals became key to the survival and development of human societies.

Antiquity

(3000 BC – AD 476)

1

Animal cults in Egypt, Greece and Rome:

In ancient Egypt cats were sacred animals, revered in honour of the goddess Bastet.

The bull, a symbol of strength and fertility, was worshipped as the sacred Apis.

Dogs and jackals were linked with the god Anubis.

In ancient Greece and Rome, horses, eagles and lions were sacred symbols of various gods. They were also used in rituals and in gladiatorial games, which emphasised the strength and power of the empires.

2

In ancient Greece the philosopher Aristotle was the first to classify animals, dividing them into those 'with blood' and those 'without blood'. This became the basis for later research.

In ancient Rome horses and dogs were also actively bred to improve their qualities. This led to the first animal breeds.

The first classification of animal breeds:

3

Animals
in war:

Horses and war elephants were an important part of warfare. Horses were used for cavalry, and elephants to charge and frighten the enemy. Carthage famously used war elephants against Rome, most memorably when Hannibal crossed the Alps.

So throughout history animals have played a key role in human life, not only in practical ways but also in spiritual and cultural life. From the first steps in domestication to their use in war and ritual, animals have become an essential part of human existence.