Romulus and Remus, Founders of Rome and Legends

Romulus and Remus are the legendary twin brothers credited with founding Rome around 753 BCE. According to myth, they were born to Rhea Silvia, a Vestal Virgin princess, and Mars, the god of war. Their grandfather, Numitor, was the king of Alba Longa but was overthrown by his brother Amulius, who forced Rhea Silvia into childlessness. Despite this, she gave birth to the twins. Amulius ordered that the babies be drowned in the Tiber River; however, a servant secretly set them adrift in a basket instead.

The twins floated to the area of the seven hills beside the Tiber, where a she-wolf, known as Lupa, discovered and nursed them. They were later rescued by a shepherd named Faustulus, who raised them as his own. Over time, Romulus and Remus grew up and became natural leaders. Their story took a critical turn when they killed Amulius, thus restoring their grandfather Numitor to the throne.

Desiring to found their city, Romulus and Remus disagreed on the location: Romulus wanted Palatine Hill, while Remus preferred Aventine Hill. To resolve their conflict, they turned to augury, watching for birds to signal divine approval. Remus spotted six vultures first, but Romulus later saw twelve; both claimed victory. Unable to agree, Romulus began constructing a wall around Palatine Hill.

Tension between the brothers escalated when Remus ridiculed Romulus’s efforts by jumping over the incomplete wall. This act was viewed as disrespectful to the sacred boundary, provoking Romulus’s fury. In a tragic turn of events, he killed Remus, thereby becoming the sole founder and first king of the city, which he named Rome after himself.

Romulus established laws and governance structures, appointing one hundred senators known as patricians. He welcomed individuals from neighboring tribes, particularly those seeking refuge, into a designated area called the Asylum. His rule lasted for 33 years, ending with his mysterious disappearance during a storm; many believed he was taken up by the gods and later deified as Quirinus, an important figure in Roman belief.

This founding myth reveals significant themes, such as divine heritage and struggles for power; it underscores the origins of Rome amidst conflict while highlighting the interaction of human actions and divine intervention within Roman culture. The story offers insights into the city's name, its early leadership, and the ongoing rivalries that surfaced during its establishment.

The legacy of Romulus and Remus is vital to understanding Rome’s origin myth and its permeating symbolism in Roman culture. Legend says the twins were born to the god Mars and raised by a she-wolf, representing Rome’s divine favor and strength. Their story features themes of leadership, fraternal conflict, and the difficulties of forming a state; Romulus eventually founded Rome after a dispute that led to the death of Remus.

This myth gave Rome a divine heritage, connecting its people to both gods and heroes, which helped underline political power and unity. The iconic image of the she-wolf nurturing the twins continues to serve as a significant symbol of Rome, commonly seen in art and monuments. Additionally, the tale shaped Roman views on power, destiny, and sacrifice, echoing throughout history as a cultural and national emblem.