
Founded in 753 BC, according to legend, by the twin brothers Romulus and Remus, Rome's history spans over two and a half millennia. Initially ruled by monarchs, it transitioned to a republic in 509 BC, laying the foundations for a system of governance that influenced modern democracies. Rome's expansionist policies led to the establishment of the Roman Empire, which, at its zenith, encompassed vast territories across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The city's legacy is evident in its contributions to law, politics, engineering, and the arts. Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire in AD 476, Rome became a pivotal center for the Christian world, profoundly shaping religious and cultural developments throughout history.