Did Geese Save Rome?

By Michael Ferguson

Did Geese Save Rome?

In the history of Rome, there are many tales of bravery and heroism. One such fascinating story is that of how geese played a role in saving the city. Let’s dive into this intriguing account and explore whether these feathered creatures truly saved Rome!

The Gallic Invasion

It was the year 390 BC when the Gauls, a fierce Celtic tribe, invaded Rome. The Romans were caught off guard as the Gauls managed to breach the city walls and launch an attack. Panic spread throughout Rome as its citizens desperately sought refuge.

Amidst this chaos, a group of Roman soldiers led by Marcus Manlius Capitolinus stood firm on the Capitoline Hill, determined to defend their city until their last breath. However, they were greatly outnumbered and needed all the help they could get.

The Honking Saviors

Legend has it that it was during this critical moment that a flock of sacred geese residing in Juno’s temple on Capitoline Hill came to the rescue. These geese were considered sacred to Juno, the goddess of marriage and childbirth.

As night fell, the Gauls attempted to climb up Capitoline Hill unnoticed in order to launch a surprise attack. But fate had other plans. The geese, with their keen senses, detected the intruders’ presence and began honking loudly.

The loud honking alerted Marcus Manlius Capitolinus and his troops who quickly sprang into action. They fought off the Gauls successfully, saving Rome from certain destruction.

A Lasting Tribute

The bravery shown by both Marcus Manlius Capitolinus and those courageous geese did not go unnoticed or unappreciated by Romans. To honor their heroic efforts, a temple dedicated to Juno Moneta, the protector of geese, was built on Capitoline Hill.

This temple served as a reminder of the significant role played by these geese in saving Rome during its darkest hour. The tale of the geese became a symbol of bravery and loyalty, inspiring generations to come.

In Conclusion

While it may seem extraordinary that geese saved Rome, this story has been passed down through generations as a testament to the bravery and resilience of both humans and animals. The tale serves as a reminder that sometimes unexpected heroes emerge from the most unlikely places.

Next time you see a flock of geese flying overhead or honking in unison, remember their role in saving Rome and appreciate the power of even the smallest creatures!