Rome: The Eternal City Founded by Romulus and Remus

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The ancient city of Rome, often called the Eternal City, holds one of the most fascinating origin stories in world history. According to Roman mythology, Rome was founded by the legendary twin brothers Romulus and Remus in 753 BCE. This tale has become a cornerstone of Roman culture, blending myth, symbolism, and political legitimacy into a narrative that has inspired generations.

The Legend of the Twins

Romulus and Remus were the twin sons of Rhea Silvia, a Vestal Virgin, and Mars, the Roman god of war. Their story begins with betrayal and survival. According to myth, King Amulius, who feared the twins would one day overthrow him, ordered them to be drowned in the Tiber River. However, fate intervened. The twins were miraculously saved and nurtured by a she-wolf, who cared for them until a shepherd named Faustulus discovered and raised them.

As the brothers grew, they became natural leaders, gathering a band of followers. Eventually, they decided to build a new city near the site of their miraculous rescue. However, conflict soon arose over the leadership of this new settlement. Romulus and Remus disagreed about who should rule and where the city should be built.

The Birth of Rome

The quarrel ended tragically when Romulus killed Remus in a fit of rage. Romulus then became the sole founder of the city, naming it Rome after himself. On April 21, 753 BCE, Rome officially came into existence, marking the beginning of one of the most influential civilizations in history.

Romulus established the foundations of Roman governance, social structures, and military organization. He divided the population into tribes, created a senate, and strengthened Rome through alliances and wars. Over time, Rome grew from a small settlement into a powerful republic and later, the vast Roman Empire.

Symbolism of the Myth

The story of Romulus and Remus is more than just a legend—it reflects key themes of Roman culture: strength, survival, and destiny. The twins’ miraculous rescue by a she-wolf symbolizes Rome’s resilience and its ability to thrive against all odds. The fraternal conflict between Romulus and Remus highlights the struggles for power that often shaped Roman politics.

Historical Significance

While historians debate the accuracy of the myth, archaeological evidence suggests that Rome indeed began as small settlements along the Palatine Hill. Over centuries, it expanded into a city that became the heart of one of the greatest civilizations of the ancient world. The tale of Romulus and Remus continues to be celebrated in Roman art, literature, and monuments, cementing its place in cultural memory.