Introduction
The city of Rome was one of the most remarkable cities of its time. Its history is deeply intertwined with the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, and its ancient capital is steeped in legend and myth. Throughout the centuries, it has been the centre of politics, culture, and the power of the Roman Empire. It is said to be founded in 753 BC, but where was the actual capital of the ancient Roman Empire?
The Eternal City: Rome
Rome was the Rome of historical and mythical origin. It began in 753 BC, as a small village on the Tiber River and grew quickly into a powerful city state, becoming a powerful empire in the process. Rome became the capital of the Roman Empire in 27 BC, when the emperor Augustus – Julius Caesar’s adopted son – moved the capital there. The city was the symbolic centre of power, economy, and culture for centuries. As a “city of the dead,” it became a centre for the burial of Emperors, and some chose to have their tombs inside the city.
Aeterna Roma: From a Republic to an Empire
Originally, the city that we now know as Rome was rather a confederacy of small countries, united by the original Romans, who formed a Senate and elected two Consuls from from the members, who were responsible for the defense and laws of the state. The Republic of Rome lasted for 500 years, until it was overthrown in the year 27 BC by Augustus, who formed an monarchy and moved the capital to Rome.
Significance of Rome
Rome was not only the capital of the Roman Empire, but a religious center as well. Rome is the only surviving city in the ancient world to have a temple devoted to the major gods of the polytheistic Roman religion, including Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva. Rome remains the spiritual centre of Christianity and a major pilgrim destination to this day. It is also home to the Vatican – a major centre of the Catholic Church.
The Legacy of Rome and its Capital
The legacy of the city of Rome and its capital is innumerable. The political, cultural and economical influence of the Roman Empire can still be seen today in many forms. The concepts of Roman law, language, the Latin alphabet, engineering, art, and architecture, have been important factors in the growth of Western civilization. The city of Rome continues to be a centre of culture and tourism, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world.
Ancient Rome Today
Today, the ruins of ancient Rome still stand in the city, despite the fact that it was sacked by the Visigoths in 410 AD and by the Vandals in 455 AD. Eye-catching ancient structures such as the Pantheon, the Roman Forum, and the Colosseum, continue to attract tourists who want to observe the city ruins and learn more about its history. Although the city that was the capital of the ancient Roman Empire no longer exists, its legacy continues to fascinate and attract visitors and even modern archaeologists.
Archaeological Evidence and Recent Finds
The archaeological evidence of Rome’s ancient rule and architecture is still visible today. Recent finds include a 1st-century BC temple, a marble sarcophagus, and a 2nd-century AD statue – all of which have been found by archaeologists and historians who have explored and studied the ruins. The ruins of the city have been used to study and get a better understanding of the history and culture of the time.
Conclusion
Rome is one of the most well-known cities in the world and its legacy lives on. From its religious and political history, to its archaeological and cultural influences, the capital of the ancient Roman Empire continues to be an inspiration to historians and travelers alike. By exploring the ruins and archaeological discovers, it is possible to get a better feel of what it was like in the days of Rome’s height of power.
