Here are five funny trivia facts about Rome, Italy:

1. The Romans Invented "Fast Food": Ancient Romans were so busy with their daily lives that many didn’t cook at home. Instead, they ate at "thermopolia," ancient fast-food joints that served hot meals to-go. These were the original "grab-and-go" spots, where you could quickly pick up a meal—long before McDonald's!

2. Cats Are Rome's Unofficial Mascots: Rome is famously home to thousands of stray cats, which are protected by law. These feline residents roam freely through ancient ruins, including the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Locals joke that the cats are the true rulers of Rome, silently guarding the city’s history.

3. The Romans Were Toilet Paper Pioneers—Kind Of: Instead of toilet paper, ancient Romans used a sponge on a stick, known as a "tersorium." After use, it was rinsed in a bucket of vinegar or salt water and shared with others. Visitors often laugh (or cringe) at how communal hygiene was back then!

4. The Trevi Fountain’s Lucky Myth: Tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain is said to ensure your return to Rome. But here's the funny part: legend also claims that if you toss two coins, you’ll fall in love with a Roman, and three coins mean you’ll marry one! With all the coins tossed, you’d think Rome has a massive marriage market.

5. The Pantheon’s Weatherproof Dome: The Pantheon’s dome has a large opening at the top called the "oculus," which lets in light—and rain. Strangely enough, the floor is slightly sloped with drainage holes, allowing rainwater to flow out. Tourists often joke about needing an umbrella inside one of Rome's most famous indoor spaces.

These humorous tidbits highlight the quirky and entertaining aspects of Rome’s rich history and culture.