The Beginnings of the Roman Empire

Today, Rome is known for its beauty, architecture, cosmopolitan lifestyle and style. However, the art, history and culture of the city are also much appreciated and people come from all over the world to see architectural marvels like the Colosseum, and the Vatican. Religion plays an important role even today in Rome.

According to historical records, the city was founded in the year 753 B.C. However, if you hear the myths and stories, you will realize that the beginning of Rome took place during the time of Aeneas, who was goddess Venus' son. After Troy was defeated, Aeneas started traveling around the place. He made a stop at Carthage where he had an affair with Queen Dido. After he left, the queen ended up committing suicide. Aeneas' travel came to an end in Italy. He got married, went on to become a king and was instrumental in founding a city.

Romulus and Remus, the twin brothers, were descendants of Aeneas. The two brothers have been credited for establishing Rome. The brothers were heirs of King Numitor's kingdom, but the new leader who wrested the control of power gave orders for the brothers to be drowned. Fortunately for the twins, there was a female wolf at the scene and she saved them and became their surrogate mother. Later on, the brothers were brought up by a shepherd. Finally some time later, they managed to get in touch with their grandfather, King Numitor, who used the might of the brothers to get back his kingdom. However, both Romulus and Remus did not stay with their grandfather. They left and then went on to establish the city of Rome near the Tiber River.

Unfortunately, after some time, Romulus and Remus had an argument because Remus had left the boundaries of Rome and gone outside. In a fit of anger, Romulus killed his brother. After his brother's demise, Romulus continued to rule Rome and did so for several years. He then gave up his throne and went on to become a god named Quirinus.

After Romulus, Rome had several rulers till it became a Republic. This state of the city stayed on for several centuries until Caesar decided to become a dictator. This saw Rome plunge into several civil wars. Once Caesar was assassinated, August, his son, became the ruler and he was responsible for uniting Rome and putting an end to all the civil wars.

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