The Roman poet Albius Tibullus, who lived in the years 50-19. BC, in one of his works called Rome "the eternal city". Initially, this phrase reflected the political importance and greatness of Rome. Today it carries a different meaning. Modern Rome is a metropolis that has preserved the mysteries of antiquity, the grandeur of the Renaissance and the energy of modernity.
The Romans celebrate the birthday of their city on April 21. According to legend, it was on this day in 753 BC. Romulus laid the foundation stone for the "eternal city". This means that in 2014 Rome will celebrate its 2767th birthday.
The Legend of Romulus and Remus
Some of the most striking reminders of the founders of Rome are the Tiber River, which crosses the city, and the sculpture of the Capitoline she-wolf, feeding two babies. The founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus, could have died immediately after birth. Legend has it that the twins' uncle ordered them to be drowned in the Tiber River. However, the current carried the basket with newborns to the shore. The cry of the babies was heard by the she-wolf, who fed them with her milk. Then a shepherd and his family found the kids and raised the future founders of Rome.
When the brothers grew up, they decided to found a new city. Romulus made a moat, outlining its borders, but Rem jumped over it, thereby provoking his brother to murder. Romulus exclaimed that such a fate awaits everyone who dared to cross the borders of the city he founded on the Capitol Hill, and became the king of Rome.
27 centuries of Rome
Archaeologists claim that the first human settlements appeared on seven famous Roman hills long before King Romulus. Be that as it may, over the years, the authorities of Rome have increased the military power of their territory. In 509 BC. the form of government became republican and the city-state of Rome became a powerful Roman Empire.
Since the beginning of its foundation, the "eternal city" has experienced many wars, territorial conquests, the creation and collapse of the Papal region, a fire that destroyed all buildings, restoration. On January 26, 1871, Rome became the capital of the Italian kingdom, and during the time of fascism, its borders expanded significantly. In 1946, Rome became the capital of the Italian Republic. It is from this moment that its modern history begins.
Celebrating Rome's birthday
With the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century AD, many customs were lost, including the celebration of the capital's birthday. The tradition was restored only during the Renaissance. During the time of Mussolini, the Day of the founding of the capital was celebrated throughout the country along with the holiday of workers, which also fell on April 21.
After the establishment of the Italian Republic, celebrations are held only within Rome. Traditionally, on this day, the capital of Italy hosts many open-air concerts and performances, the most important of which are the costumed procession and fireworks. Entry to the museums on Capitol Hill is free on this day.
