Rome, the capital of Italy, stands as an enduring symbol of Western civilization, blending millennia of history with modern vitality. As the administrative centre of the Lazio region and the heart of the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Rome’s influence extends from ancient legends to its current role within the European Union. Whether referred to by its Italian name, Roma, or simply as “the Eternal City,” Rome captivates visitors with its storied past and vibrant present.
Founded on 21 April 753 BC by the legendary King Romulus, Rome grew from a small settlement on the Tiber River to the seat of one of history’s greatest empires. Today, with a municipal population of approximately 2.75 million and a metropolitan population surpassing 4.22 million, Rome continues to thrive as a global cultural and political hub.
According to Roman myth, Romulus and Remus—twins raised by a she-wolf—battled over the city's site. Romulus ultimately founded Rome and became its first king, establishing the monarchy that would last for centuries.
Monarchy (753–509 BC): Seven legendary kings ruled, laying religious and social foundations.
Republic (509–27 BC): A system featuring elected magistrates, the Senate, and popular assemblies.
Under Augustus in 27 BC, Rome transitioned to an empire, expanding across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Notable features:
Pax Romana: Two centuries of relative peace and stability.
Infrastructure: Roads, aqueducts, amphitheaters.
After the Western Empire's fall in 476 AD, Rome endured Gothic and Byzantine rule and later became the center of the Papal States.
The Renaissance reinvigorated Rome with art and architecture, as Popes like Julius II commissioned masterpieces from Michelangelo and Raphael.
Unified with Italy in 1870, Rome was declared the national capital in 1871. Today, Mayor Roberto Gualtieri leads Rome’s municipal government, focusing on sustainability and innovation.
Rome's geography spans hills, river valleys, and coastal plains. Located in west-central Italy, it lies 21 m above sea level along the Tiber.
Climate: Mediterranean (hot, dry summers; mild, wet winters).
Key Features: Seven hills (Palatine, Capitoline, etc.), Tiber River, proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Rome’s government operates under a strong mayor–council system. Key institutions include:
Mayor’s Office: Headed by Roberto Gualtieri (PD).
Capitoline Assembly: Legislative body.
National Institutions: Presidency of the Republic, Parliament, major ministries.
As the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, it oversees 121 comuni, serving over 4.2 million residents.
Rome’s economy is service-oriented, with sectors such as:
Government and Public Administration
Tourism and Hospitality
High Technology & Research
Media and Film (Cinecittà)
Key Figures:
Metro GDP: €163.46 billion (2025 estimate)
Employment: Dynamic growth in cultural industries and international agencies.
From the Colosseum to St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome’s skyline reflects ancient, medieval, and Renaissance achievements.
Home to world-class opera houses, theaters, and annual film festivals.
A boutique capital rivaling Milan, with Roman designers influencing global trends.
Renowned for Roman dishes like cacio e pepe, supplì, and artichokes alla giudia.
Rome hosts prestigious universities and academic institutions:
Sapienza University of Rome
Roma Tre University
International research centers (e.g., FAO, IFAD).
From its founding by King Romulus to its modern status as the capital of Italy, Rome’s journey mirrors the evolution of Western civilization. Its blend of ancient ruins and contemporary life underscores Rome’s enduring significance. Next time you stroll past the Pantheon or savor pasta al forno, remember you are walking through layers of history in the Eternal City. What aspect of Rome will inspire your next adventure?
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