Early Exploration
Ancient Rome was once a powerful empire that ruled much of the known world during its heyday in the first and second centuries. Over the centuries that followed, it has left behind a number of legacies, from engineering feats such as the Colosseum and Pantheon, to its immense influence on law and culture. But who discovered Ancient Rome?
It is generally accepted that Ancient Rome was first discovered in the 8th century BC by ancient Greek settlers. Some historians point to their discovery of the city on its seven hills as an influence on Latin and Roman cultures. Over the next few centuries, Ancient Rome would become involved in an ongoing contest for control between the Latin, Sabine, and Etruscan peoples. This contest ultimately led to Rome becoming a republic in the 7th century BC.
Mythological Origins
The origin of Ancient Rome is also attributed to a mythical tale. Legend has it that Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus, twin brothers abandoned by their father, Mars, the god of war. Washed ashore on the banks of the Tiber River, Romulus and Remus were taken in by a she-wolf who suckled them and kept them safe. As they grew, they eventually established the city of Rome on the spot where they were found.
The Roman Empire
What had been only a city state eventually grew into an empire that stretched across much of the known world in its prime. Its territory encompassed the regions of Italy, Greece, the Mediterranean, and parts of Northern Europe, among many others. Much of its strength was attributed to Roman law, which legitimized power and granted protection and civil rights to its citizens.
Under the emperors, Ancient Rome became the world’s superpower and the seat of power for a vast and diverse set of cultures. Its rule was viewed as enlightened and absolute, setting the stage for many of the customs and influences that dominate much of the world today. As its power waned, many of these influences took root in other cultures and created a lasting mark on society and lawmaking.
Rome’s Decline
Though the Roman Empire created stability and encouraged advances in art, industry, farming, and engineering, it gradually entered a period of decline that lasted for centuries. This was largely owing to its overextension and the influx of new peoples into Roman territories.
In the 5th century AD, the Roman Empire was divided into a western and an eastern component. The western half was soon overrun by invading Germanic tribes, while the eastern half survived and eventually developed into the Byzantine Empire. Though it had lost much of its former glory, the Byzantine Empire helped to preserve much of Ancient Rome’s cultural and scientific heritage.
Legacy of Ancient Rome
Despite its decline, Ancient Rome has left an indelible mark on the modern world. Its advances in engineering, agriculture, and lawmaking have profoundly shaped how we live today. Its ideals of justice and civic duty have been passed down through generations.
In addition, much of Ancient Rome’s vibrant art, architecture, and literature have endured the test of time. From its epic poems and plays, to its celebrated sculptures and frescoes, the works of Ancient Rome have inspired the world’s greatest artists, writers, and composers.
Preservation Efforts
Fortunately, much of Ancient Rome’s vast legacy is still extant. Its monuments, temples, and other historical sites have been carefully protected, as have many of its frescoes, sculptures, and works of literature. These efforts have been ongoing for centuries, but their importance has been further underscored in recent years by the extensive efforts of scientists, archaeologists, and historians to preserve and restore what remains of the city.
Exploring Ancient Rome Today
Today, thousands of visitors flock to visit the sites of Ancient Rome, to walk in the footsteps of its citizens, to marvel at its monuments and admire its artwork. It is a living testament to the courage and ambition of a remarkable people whose legacy has affected the course of history for centuries.
The History of ‘Roma’
Roma in Latin means ‘city of a king’ and the name is derived from the legend of the founding of Rome. According to the legend, Rome was founded by the twin brothers Romulus and Remus. The two were abandoned by their father Mars, the God of War, and then discovered by a she-wolf who took them in. The brothers grew up and eventually founded the city on the seven hills, beginning a story that would last centuries.
Archaeological Evidence
Archaeologists have uncovered a wealth of evidence from Ancient Rome from the 8th century BC to the 5th century AD. This includes the remains of monuments, temples, villas, amphitheaters, monuments, and other artifacts that have or had significance to the Roman Empire. In addition to this material evidence, archaeologists have also been able to unearth ancient writings, including poetry, slave records, and annals written by Romans about their daily lives.
Impacts to Modern Society
The impact of Ancient Rome can still be felt today. Its advances in engineering, agriculture, and lawmaking have profoundly shaped the way we live today. Its ideals of justice, civil duty, and democracy have been passed down throughout the centuries, impacting the laws and customs of countries around the world. Ancient Rome’s vibrant art, architecture, and literature have inspired generations of masterpieces and still captivate the imaginations of authors, poets, and artists.
The Significance of Ancient Rome
The legacy of Ancient Rome is remarkable in that it has endured throughout the centuries and continues to influence modern society. It is a testament to the resilience, courage, and ambition of its people, a people who left an indelible mark on history through their accomplishments and inspired others with their dreams. As such, it serves as a reminder of the vast potential human beings possess, and of what can be achieved when determination and effort are applied wholeheartedly.
