What Are the Two Founding Stories of Rome?

By Robert Palmer

Rome, the eternal city, is steeped in history and legends. It has not one, but two founding stories that have captivated the imagination of historians and romantics alike for centuries. These stories are Romulus and Remus, and Aeneas.

The Legend of Romulus and Remus

The story of Romulus and Remus is perhaps the most well-known founding myth of Rome. According to legend, they were twin brothers born to Rhea Silvia, a Vestal Virgin, and Mars, the god of war.

As infants, Romulus and Remus were abandoned in a basket on the Tiber River. They were found by a she-wolf who nursed them back to health. Eventually, a shepherd named Faustulus discovered the boys and took them in as his own.

As they grew older, Romulus and Remus decided to build a city near where they had been found. However, they disagreed on its location.

This led to an argument that turned violent. In the end, Romulus killed Remus and became the sole ruler of the newly founded city.

  • Bold Text: According to legend, Romulus killed Remus in a fit of rage.
  • Bold Text: Rome was named after Romulus.

The Legend of Aeneas

The second founding story of Rome centers around Aeneas, a Trojan hero from Virgil’s epic poem “The Aeneid.” After the fall of Troy during the Trojan War, Aeneas embarked on a long journey that eventually brought him to Italy.

According to legend, Aeneas landed in Latium where he encountered King Latinus. Latinus offered Aeneas his daughter Lavinia’s hand in marriage, which sparked a war between the Trojans and the local Rutuli tribe.

Despite facing numerous challenges, Aeneas eventually emerged victorious. He founded a city called Lavinium and became its first king. Aeneas’ descendants would later establish the city of Alba Longa, from which Romulus and Remus would descend.

Conclusion

The two founding stories of Rome, that of Romulus and Remus and that of Aeneas, have shaped the city’s identity throughout history. These legends not only serve as origin stories but also highlight the themes of power, conflict, and destiny that are intertwined with Rome’s rich cultural heritage.

Whether one believes in these myths or not, they continue to capture our collective imagination and remind us of the enduring legacy of Rome.