The City of Rome was born on April 21st on what is called Rome’s Christmas, il Natale di Roma, 2776 years ago!
Celebrations involve a whole lot of events on this day, with parades, shows and games that take over the city! This anniversary is a fun occasion to re-enact the story of the foundation of Rome, with games, parades and celebrations that take over the city. In honor of one of the most important legends in mythology.
But how can we be so sure, April 21st is in fact the day Rome was founded?
In this article we will discover fun facts, scientific proof and myths surrounding the foundation of the Eternal city.
Studies show that Romulus founded the city on April 21st in 753 bC, according to Marcus Terentio Varrone, an illustrous literary Roman; who’s referred to this day with the latin phrase “Ab Urbe condita” which translates in the “foundation of the city”.
Other scientific facts are connected to this day, thanks to calculation made by the 1st century BC mathematical physicist Lucius Tarutio Firmano.
And the latin writer Titus Livius described this city as “Rome, fortunate city, invincible and eternal“.
Titus Livius believed that Rome’s Ancestor arrived in Italy from Troy.
According to the myth, the Greeks conquered Troy with the wooden horse strategy, which forced the trojans to flee in faraway lands. One of which was Enea, son of the Goddess Venus and mortal Anchises, who reside in the area at the South of Rome.
Enea married Lavinia, the local king’s daughter, with whom he founded the city of Lavinio, while their son, Ascanio, as soon as he became an adult founded the city of Alba Longa.
The events that came later led to the foundation of Rome. In the 19th-century bC a fight for power led to the falling of the legitimate king of Alba Longa, Numitore, descendant of Enea and Lavina, allowing all the power to his son, Amulio. But Amulio was so fearful of being dethroned that he forced his beloved, Rea Silvia, to become a vestal virgin, to avoid having to lose his power over eventual heirs.
But things didn’t go according to plan: the God Mars fell in love with Rea Silvia who he had babies with. Semi-god twins, which we will later know as Romulus and Remus.
When the twins were born, Amulio ordered for them to be killed but Rea Silvia, wanted to protect her babies, so she put them in a basket and let it float on the gentle waters of the Tiber River, hoping and praying they would be found and saved from the unfathomable destiny Amulio had in store for them.
When the basket reached the river bend, a mother wolf found the twins alive and nourished them as they were her baby cubs. They were later discovered by a shepherd named Faustolo, who brought them home to his wife Acca Larenzia.
Years had gone by and when the twins became adults they discovered their history so the twins went to Albalonga and killed Amulio, returning the throne to its legitimate king, Numitore.
This act granted them permission to found a city.
Romulus wanted to call it Roma and build it on top of the Palatine Hill, while Remus wanted to call it Remora and build it on the Aventine, resulting into yet another family feud.
Romulus killed his brother and founded the new city as he wanted, becoming the 1st of the legendary 7 kings of Rome.
The legend and foundation are quite unique and characteristic, which is often explained in many unpredictable symbols. Which the city is so well known for its symbolysms.
For example, you may find yourself walking around in Rome and finding statues of a mother Wolf feeding twins. A city’s way to honor the wolf that saved the twins on the riverbend before they were discovered by humans.
The legend of Rome’s foundation is rich with symbols, with incredibly deep meaning. The devine father Mars, the basket on the river, mother wolf and the adoptive family, connected all to local roots, the family fued and the murdered brother.
An important aspect of this legend as unique and gruesome as it may be, is that Rome is connected and created by two of the most powerful forces in the universe: War and Love.
War, represented by Romulus and Remus’ father, Mars, the God of War. In a more ample aspect of symbolism, Mars represents Power, the God of Destruction but also of Rebirth.
And Love, because the twins’ Ancestor Enea, was son of Venus, Goddess of Love. Therefore representing, life and fertility.
So, as we can confirm, the birth of Rome is connected with two important Roman Gods: Venus and Mars.
These two gods, Venus and Mars were cherished by Emperor Augustus. Because the first Emperor of Rome believed to be the new Romulus. This legend is described in Virgilius’ Poem, the Aeneid, highlighting the mythology surrounding the powerful origins of Augustus.
So April 21st and Rome’s birthday were an absolutely important celebration for this particular Emperor. But this date has a curious influence on everything that goes on in the city.
Take the Pantheon, for example.
The way the Pantheon is built, is unique as we all know. But it holds a special meaning. In fact, every April 21st, at noon, the sun shines through the Oculus at the center of the dome, with such an inclination that allows a strong ray of light to beam directly through the roof and that radiates into the entire entrance of the building. This temple was constructed to make sure that when the Emperor entered the building on this particular date, he would be surrounded by light. A fun fact indeed!
To circle back to the symbolism of Rome, we can find it anywhere in the city, on the walls, in the buildings, enscripted and carved into the most unexpected places. And subject of many sayings in the City.
For example, a big saying the Romans love to use is “Me pari la lupa ar Campidojo” translate: “You look like the wolf at Campidoglio”.
We know it may seem like it doesn’t make much sense. But this saying refers to the a real event that took place on Capitoline hill.
Someone may use this saying to describe a person as restless.
The wolf in this saying, is not the legendary one that saved the twins from the river, represented today in a statue in the Capitoline Museums, where the Town hall is. This other wolf is actually a real live creature which was caged and displayed on the square of Capitoline Hill a few years after the breech of Porta Pia, by the town mayor.
The caged wolf was a real symbol of Rome, in honor of the legendary creature from the story of Romulus and Remus. And it was displayed in the square for many years, before it was freed, as an attraction for all the Romans, that would go see the animal walk back and forth in its small cage, poor thing.
Seeing the wolf always so agitated and restless, generated in the saying, “You look like the wolf at the Capitoline hill!”
There are other more colorful and peaceful aspects connected with Rome. In fact April 21st hosts all sorts of celebrations in store for the Eternal city.
Traditionally, there would be historical reinactments on April 21st, arranged by the Historical Roman Association, Gruppo Storico Romano.
The cultural group was founded in 1994 by Sergio Iacomoni, by a group of passionate Romans that honor Rome’s history, with reinactments, displays, parades and gladiator traditions, known all over the World.
The events that are arranged usually take place around the Circus Maximus and include gladiator fights in traditional costumes and other fun events like the trenches digging, which symbolizes the foundation of ancient Roman cities, when a trench was excavated around the town perimeter and offerings were thrown in them, to encourage the Gods to always protect their people.
The highlight of Rome’s birthday celebrations is a great parade in traditional garments that includes over 1500 participants in costume that walk from Circus Maximus, through the Via dei Fori Imperiali and through the Colosseum.
This year, the Gruppo Storico Romano Association, will celebrate Rome’s Birthday with the following program: The Gruppo Storico Romano will stage “Roma Regina Aquarum”
The event will take place from April 20th to the 23rd 2023 at the Circus Maximus and this year’s them will be a tribut of the preciousness of Water in the history of the city. Participation is entirely free of charge and it encourages local and tourist’s participation!
This years’ prediction entails that dozens of thousands of people will par-take in the festivities! With the participation of 16 different Nations, 80 associations and 2500 reinactors.
During these three days of celebrations, visitors will have the opportunity of reliving the traditions of an Ancient Roman Empire, immerse in the political fight of republican times and have a taste of the military traditions, between the legions, gladiators, lictors and praetorians.
All accompanied by colorful nymphs, vestals, matrons and all the pagan religious aspect of ancient times.
Also, the visitors can partake in different tournaments and games, and admire the beauty of the costumes and the general atmosphere.
All in all, Rome being 2776 years old, is a great opportunity for everyone to appreciate ancient Roman times, and the traditions and culture that are very much alive in the heart of every Roman today.
So happy birthday, Rome. Make sure to join the celebrations!
you may be interested:
An All-Inclusive Ancient Roman Experience in the Heart of Rome Are you fascinated by Ancient Roman history? Want to see the mighty Colosseum and other archaeological wonders up close? This private tour is perfect for you. Welcome to Rome – Your Exclusive Adventure Begins Your personal tour driver will greet you directly at your cruise ship in Civitavecchia Port, holding a sign with your name. As you travel along the ancient roads toward the city center, get ready to dive deep into the heart of Ancient Rome. You'll meet your private, passionate guide at the Colosseum’s Archaeological Park (Parco Archeologico del Colosseo) for a truly unforgettable experience. Main Highlights of the Tour: The Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Roman Forum Explore the very heart of Roman life, where citizens once gathered for politics, religion, and business. Skip-the-line tickets to the Colosseum are included! Experience the Roman Empire Up Close Led by one of our expert guides, this immersive tour blends fascinating history, fun facts, and engaging storytelling. You’ll learn how this ancient site shaped the Roman world — and why it still amazes visitors today. Many guests ask: "Is the Colosseum real?" Yes — what you see today is the original structure, built of stone nearly two millennia ago. It was once the stage for gladiator battles, wild animal hunts, and even mock naval battles! Walk Through the Origins of Civilization on this personalized tour Next, you'll explore the ruins of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where Roman civilization truly began. -Temples, markets, and basilicas still stand as powerful reminders of daily life in ancient Rome. -This area hosted political debates, religious ceremonies, and lively marketplaces. -It’s where history happened — and you’ll walk in the footsteps of the Romans themselves. Onto more Ancient Gems You Can’t Miss Part ways with your guide at the Arch of Constantine: Say goodbye to your guide here — but your adventure continues! Free Time & Lunch Like a Local After your morning tour, why not enjoy a delicious Roman lunch? Your driver will recommend a typical trattoria nearby — perfect for a true taste of Rome. Visit the Magnificent Pantheon. Entrance tickets included! Explore one of the best-preserved buildings of Ancient Rome. Once a temple to all the gods, the Pantheon was later transformed into a church. Today, it’s also the final resting place of Raphael and Italian royalty. Final Stop: The Ancient Appian Way & Catacombs Here, you'll explore one of the famous Catacombs, where you’ll experience underground Rome — literally. Wander through winding tunnels, some stretching four stories deep, filled with mystery, history, and centuries-old stories. Return to Port – Full of Memories After this unforgettable journey through Ancient Rome, your driver will take you back to Civitavecchia Port. You’ll leave with memories, stories, and a deep appreciation for the Eternal City.
price from €200.00
Have you ever imagined just how incredible the story behind the mighty Colosseum really is? Well this private tour is the perfect opportunity to learn all about it An exclusive tour of the Colosseum with your very own fun and entertaining guide! Everything will be take care of for you. All you have to do is get ready to enjoy this amazing Exclusive Colosseum tour! Meet with your guide in Via San Gregorio, adjacent to the Colosseo. After a quick introduction, the tour begins! What is there to say about this site? Where to start? The Colosseum was declared one of the World's Seven Wonders in 2007. It was built between 72 and 83 a.D by the Roman Emperor Vespasian. It is a massive amphitheater that could host an immense amount of spectators. Over 50 thousand people to gathered to view gory, gruesome games, anything from Hunting scenes, to animal killings and gladiator fights. Visit the Colosseum in the most interesting and entertaining way! The Colosseum is certainly one of the most important monuments of ancient Rome. You will learn about the gladiators, the emperors, and society that attended to the gruesome spectacles, that this amphitheater hosted. Your guide will then lead you into the Roman forum, known as the heart of the ancient city and Roman Empire. The first Roman civilization began here. Legendary for its contribution in Christianity’s evolution, it became the administrative and commercial center of ancient Rome. Last but not least, the Palatine Hill! The Palatine Hill is located in the heart of the Seven Hills of Rome. It is one of the most ancient parts of the city and has been called “the first core of the Roman Empire.” It overlooks on the Roman Forum on one side and the Circus Maximus on the other. We don't want to spoil your experience any longer. Just know that your private guide will give you a tour to remember in a lifetime!
price from €80.00
As if a day in Rome wasn't enough, we will take you for a private tour of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel! A private tour in Rome to remember Enjoy a full day tour in Rome and the Vatican City with your private luxury vehicle. Your personal tour driver will pick you up directly from any place you want, from your hotel or other. And your tour begins! Drive by Piazza Venezia,the impressive circular square, with buildings and monuments enclosing it. With the infamous Balcony from which Mussolini gave his speeches, on one side. Or L'Altare della Patria, Monument to the last king of Italy Vittorio Emanuele the Second, a giant marble white, ancient temple-shaped building that climbs on the side of one of Rome's legendary Seven Hills, Capitoline Hill. Also known as Campidoglio, it hosts incredible views of the Piazza Venezia on one side and the Roman Forum on the other, the perfect division between the ancient Roman past and the present. Speaking of Ancient Roman times, you will head for the Colosseum A stop to see the Mighty Colosseum up-close is definitely a must! Walk Ancient ways of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Drive by the Circus Maximus,a field used mostly for concerts and political events today, but it was once an arena used to entertain Romans while they watched and cheered during water spectacles, fights or reenactments. It was often used as movie sets, like in the film BenHur. To remain in the Roman theme, circle back around into the City Center, characteristic for it's narrow cobble streets that lead to so many wonders. Like the Pantheon! An ancient Roman Temple with a beautifully decorated dome and an incredible history. Created in ancient times, to worship All Gods, it is now one of the active Catholic churches in Rome. To learn more about the Pantheon, visit our blog! Then there's Piazza Navona, not to far from there. A Renaissance delight, with incredible architectures and beautiful fountains, like the Four Rivers fountain, by Bernini. The streets filled with cute little boutiques, old buildings, ivy crawling over the facades and window sills, reveal beautiful wonders, that you will not find in any other place on Earth! Like the Spanish Steps. A beautiful street with the famous sets of stairs that climb into the shape of a giant butterfly up to the square of Trinità dei Monti, which offers incredible views of the Spanish steps below and the busy Via dei Condotti, famous for the most in vogue haute couture stores. One of the adjacent streets hides possibly the most famous Fountain in the WORLD The Trevi Fountain is another mandatory stop. Embedded in a tiny little square, is the world famous fountain. With sculptures of different water related scenes, sea shells, dancing horses and Poseidon. Waterfalls and pools of crystal clear water. What an amazing work of art. Make sure to toss a coin over your shoulder and make a wish! Legend has it, it will guarantee your return in Rome. All this touring can sure work up an appetite! Lucky for you, all of our tour drivers not only know the perfect places to see in Rome, they also love food and know the best restaurants in town! So your tour driver will be happy to recommend the perfect restaurants, trattorias or pizzerias depending on what you are in the mood for. Finally, you driver will take you at the Vatican Museums where you will continue the tour to explore the Museums and the Sistine Chapel! Prepare to sigh! We dare to find something as beautiful as the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel *Upon request, we can arrange one of our qualified guides to take you to a once in a life time experience inside the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Other wise you will enjoy your time inside the Museums and Sistine Chapel alone, freely and at your own pace! Without having to stick to a strict itinerary a guided tour would inevitably have. Just know that depending on the number of visits in a day, some wings might be closed. But this won’t matter at all, we can assure you, there is just so much to see, you’ll hardly even notice! To fully assist you, we do offer the possibility of adding Skip the line tickets with privileged entrance directly during the booking process. At the entrance, the customer service will hand you a map of the site, for you to explore the different areas of the Museums and the Sistine Chapel! What you will experience would includes is a system of wings and halls and terraces, including the Cortile Della Pigna, Belvedere, Pio Clementino Museum, the Gallery of Candelabra, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Maps, and Raphael’s Rooms. Next, you will visit the beautiful Sistine Chapel. The breathtaking, overwhelmingly beautiful creation for you to admire! From there, you'll head back to the exit, a trod on the famous cylindrical stair case. Another undisturbed masterpiece, called "Momo" designed by an Italian architect in the 1930s, inspired by Bramante's double helix staircase from the 1500s, inside the Pio Clementine Museum, a wing of the Vatican Museums. From the Momo stair case you'll exit the Museums to find your private tour driver eager to hear your opinions on the experience. And you'll return to your Hotel location in Rome in time for the afternoon tea.
price from €87.50
+39 06.999.77.65
+39 339.159.25.40
info@discoveryguidedtours.com
9 hours
