What did the Romans commonly refer to the Mediterranean Sea as?

The term "Mare Nostrum" translates to "Our Sea" in Latin, and it was commonly used by the Romans to refer to the Mediterranean Sea. This phrase reflects the Romans' sense of ownership and pride over the Mediterranean, which was central to their empire and trade routes. The Mediterranean connected various parts of the Roman world, facilitating commerce, cultural exchange, and military expeditions, making it significant to Roman identity and power.

While "Mare Internum" and "Mare Mediterraneum" literally reference aspects of the Mediterranean Sea, they were not the commonly used terms among Romans. "Mare Internum," or "Internal Sea," might describe the Mediterranean's geographic position surrounded by land, but it lacks the personal connection implied by "Mare Nostrum." Similarly, "Mare Mediterraneum," which translates as "Mediterranean Sea," is more descriptive than possessive and thus did not capture the Roman sentiment.

"Mare Terranum," on the other hand, is not a well-known term in relation to the Mediterranean and instead suggests a broader concept of earth or land. In contrast, "Mare Nostrum" encapsulates the Romans' pride and their dominion over the sea, solidifying it as the correct