Romulus

Romulus’s life and accomplishments are the subjects of many legends, but it is unclear how much of the Romulus story is based on historical fact.

According to legend, Romulus and his twin brother Remus were born in Alba Longa, a city in central Italy. Their mother, Rhea Silvia, was a vestal virgin, which meant she had taken a vow of chastity. She was forced to become a vestal virgin by her uncle, the king of Alba Longa, in order to prevent her from having children who could threaten his reign.

Despite her vow of chastity, Rhea Silvia was impregnated by the god Mars, who visited her in a dream. When her uncle discovered her pregnancy, he ordered her to be imprisoned and the babies to be drowned in the Tiber River. The infants were placed in a basket and left to float down the river. They were eventually found by a she-wolf who nursed them and kept them alive until a shepherd named Faustulus found them and raised them as his own.

As they grew older, Romulus and Remus learned of their true heritage and decided to found a new city on the site where they had been found. They chose a hill called Palatine Hill, which was seen as an auspicious location. However, the brothers argued over who should rule the new city, and the argument escalated into a fight. In the end, Romulus killed Remus and became the sole ruler of the new city.

Romulus is credited with creating many of the early institutions and traditions of Rome, such as the Roman Senate, the division of the city into districts or “tribes,” and the establishment of the Roman army. He also oversaw the building of the city’s first walls and the creation of a legal system. Under his rule, Rome grew and prospered, and it became a major power in the region.

According to legend, Romulus disappeared under mysterious circumstances and was taken up into the heavens to become a god. This event is known as the “deification of Romulus,” and it was seen as a sign of the city’s divine favor and protection.

Romulus’ legacy as the founder of Rome was commemorated in many ways by the Roman people. He was considered a heroic figure and was celebrated in festivals and ceremonies, including the festival of the Quirinalia, which honored him as the god Quirinus. The Capitoline Hill in Rome was also home to a temple dedicated to Romulus, which was one of the most important religious sites in the city.

Romulus was also credited with establishing the Roman legal system, which was based on the principles of justice and fairness. The Twelve Tables, a set of laws that were written down and displayed in the Roman Forum, were attributed to Romulus and were seen as the foundation of Roman law.

The Roman army, which Romulus is said to have established, was one of the most powerful military forces of its time. It was organized into legions and was known for its discipline and effectiveness in battle. The Roman army played a crucial role in the expansion of the Roman Empire and the spread of Roman culture and civilization.

In addition to his military and political achievements, Romulus was also credited with creating many of the religious and cultural traditions of Rome. He was seen as a patron of agriculture and was associated with the festival of the Lupercalia, which celebrated the coming of spring and the fertility of the land.

While it is unclear how much of the Romulus story is based on historical fact, his legacy as the founder of Rome and the creator of its early institutions and traditions has had a lasting impact on Western civilization. The story of Romulus and Remus continues to be an important part of Roman mythology and culture, and it has been the subject of many works of art and literature over the centuries.