The Romans built Hadrian's Wall between sea and sea across northern England to defend their empire, which spanned almost 4,000 kilometers at its height around 1900 years ago. Life in ancient Rome was very different for the rich and poor - the rich lived in large homes while the poor crowded into multi-story apartment buildings. Public baths were one of the few places both social classes mingled, as most Romans went to free public baths daily for hygiene and socializing.