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Congius
(137 words)

[German version]

Based on an amphora (= 8 congii), congius designates a Roman volume measure for liquids and is equal to 3.275 l, which is standardized when filled with water or wine at 80 pounds at 327.45 g each, so that a congius of 10 pounds weighs about 3.275 kg. The ‘Farnesian’ congius, which was produced in AD 75 under Vespasian and shows the abbreviation p(ondus) X (for 10 pounds) in the inscription, was just below the standard with 3.265 l (ILS 8628). Regarding the subdivision of the congius, cf.  cochlear . The chous is equated with the Roman congius.

 Amphora;  chous;  Calibration;…

Cite this page
Mlasowsky, Alexander (Hannover), “Congius”, in: Brill’s New Pauly, Antiquity volumes edited by: Hubert Cancik and , Helmuth Schneider, English Edition by: Christine F. Salazar, Classical Tradition volumes edited by: Manfred Landfester, English Edition by: Francis G. Gentry. Consulted online on 10 June 2023 <http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/1574-9347_bnp_e304060>
First published online: 2006
First print edition: 9789004122598, 20110510



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