Did Rome Have Walls?
Rome, the ancient city that was once the center of one of the most powerful empires in history, is famous for its architectural marvels and grand structures. But did Rome have walls? The answer is yes, Rome did have walls, and they played a crucial role in the city’s defense and protection.
The Servian Wall
The first walls of Rome were known as the Servian Wall, named after Servius Tullius, the sixth king of Rome who is credited with their construction. These walls were built around 378 BCE and enclosed a large area of the city, approximately 5 square kilometers.
The Servian Wall was made of tufa stone and had a height of about 10 meters. It featured various defensive elements such as towers, battlements, and gates. The wall served as a fortification against external threats and protected the city during times of war.
The Aurelian Walls
As Rome grew in size and power, it became necessary to expand and strengthen its defenses. In the third century CE, Emperor Aurelian ordered the construction of new walls which came to be known as the Aurelian Walls.
The Aurelian Walls were built between 271 and 275 CE and encompassed a much larger area than the Servian Wall. These new walls extended for approximately 19 kilometers and enclosed an area of about 13 square kilometers.
The Aurelian Walls were constructed using bricks instead of tufa stone like their predecessors. They were taller than the Servian Wall, reaching a height of about 12 meters. The walls featured numerous towers and gates, including famous ones such as Porta Appia and Porta San Giovanni.
Importance of Rome’s Walls
The walls of Rome served several important purposes. Firstly, they acted as a deterrent to potential invaders and provided a sense of security to the residents of the city. They also played a crucial role in controlling the movement of people and goods in and out of Rome.
The walls were not just defensive structures but also symbolized the power and grandeur of Rome. They were a testament to the city’s ability to protect itself from external threats, further enhancing its reputation as an unconquerable empire.
Legacy and Remains
Although many parts of the Servian Wall and Aurelian Walls have been lost over time due to urban development and decay, some sections still exist today. These remnants serve as a reminder of Rome’s ancient past and attract visitors from around the world.
- The best-preserved section of the Servian Wall can be found near Termini Station, close to the Baths of Diocletian.
- One can see significant portions of the Aurelian Walls at various locations, including near Porta San Sebastiano and Porta Pia.
In conclusion, Rome did have walls – both the Servian Wall and Aurelian Walls – which played a vital role in protecting the city throughout its history. These architectural wonders not only served as defenses but also represented the might and glory of ancient Rome.