Over 2500 Years – The History of Rome
Rome, the capital city of Italy, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over two and a half thousand years. According to legend, the city was founded in 753 BC by Romulus and Remus, twin brothers who were raised by a she-wolf.
The story goes that Romulus and Remus were the sons of Mars, the god of war, and were left to die as infants because of a prophecy that they would overthrow their great-uncle, King Amulius, who ruled the city of Alba Longa. However, they were saved by a she-wolf, who cared for them until they were discovered and raised by a shepherd.
When they grew up, Romulus and Remus decided to found their own city and chose a site on the banks of the Tiber River. However, a disagreement arose over which of them should rule the city, and in the end, Romulus killed Remus and became the first king of Rome.
The founding of Rome in 753 BC is considered the beginning of the Roman Republic, which would later evolve into the Roman Empire. The legend of Romulus and Remus is still celebrated in Rome today, and the city is proud of its rich history and cultural heritage. The she-wolf who raised the twins is now a symbol of the city, and a bronze statue of the she-wolf with Romulus and Remus can be found in the Capitoline Museums in Rome.
49 BC – Julius Caesar
In the following centuries, Rome grew into a powerful republic, known for its military prowess, road network, and legal system. In 49 BC, Julius Caesar became the first emperor of Rome, marking the beginning of the Roman Empire, which would last for almost 500 years.
During the Empire, Rome reached its peak of power and became the center of the ancient world. The city was home to monumental structures, such as the Colosseum, the Circus Maximus, and the Baths of Caracalla, as well as beautiful public spaces, such as the Roman Forum and the Piazza Navona.
476 AD – Fall of the Western Rome Empire
In 476 AD, the fall of the Western Roman Empire marked the end of one of the world’s greatest civilizations and the beginning of a period of decline for the city of Rome, and after nearly 500 years of prosperity and power, the Western Roman Empire was sacked by barbarian invasions and internal instability, leading to its eventual collapse.
The fall of the Western Roman Empire had far-reaching consequences for the city of Rome and the surrounding region. The once-great metropolis was left in ruins, and its population declined dramatically. Many of its magnificent public structures, such as the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus, fell into disrepair and were gradually abandoned.
However, Rome’s legacy lived on, and the city continued to be a center of power and influence, first as the capital of the Papal States and later as the capital of the Kingdom of Italy. The city was eventually rebuilt, and many of its ancient structures were restored to their former glory, becoming popular tourist attractions and symbols of the city’s rich history and heritage.
Rome Today
Today, Rome is a vibrant and thriving city that is proud of its rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors from all over the world come to the city to explore its ancient ruins, admire its stunning architecture, and sample its delicious cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture. It is a modern city that combines its rich historical heritage with a thriving contemporary culture. Visitors can explore the city’s ancient ruins, admire its stunning baroque architecture, and sample its delicious cuisine, making Rome a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture.