Ancient Rome: The Eternal Empire

Explanation: Tradition places the founding of Rome on April 21, 753 BC by Romulus. This date was so important that Romans counted years "ab Urbe condita" (from the founding of the City).

Explanation: The she-wolf (Lupa in Latin) is the symbol of Rome. The famous Capitoline Wolf statue represents this founding legend of the city.

Explanation: Augustus (born Octavian) became the first emperor in 27 BC. Great-nephew and heir of Julius Caesar, he reigned until 14 AD, inaugurating an era of peace.

Explanation: Julius Caesar was assassinated on March 15, 44 BC (the Ides of March), stabbed by a group of senators including Brutus. "Et tu, Brute?" he reportedly said.

Explanation: Pompeii was buried under the ashes of Vesuvius on August 24, 79 AD. The nearby town of Herculaneum was also destroyed. These archaeological sites offer unique testimony of Roman life.

Explanation: The Colosseum (or Flavian Amphitheatre) could hold between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators. Inaugurated in 80 AD, it remains the largest amphitheatre ever built.

Explanation: Constantine I issued the Edict of Milan in 313, granting freedom of worship to Christians. He was also the first emperor to convert to Christianity.

Explanation: The Western Roman Empire collapsed in 476 AD when Odoacer deposed the last emperor Romulus Augustulus. The Eastern Empire (Byzantium) survived until 1453.

Explanation: The Via Appia (Appian Way), built in 312 BC, was nicknamed "regina viarum" (queen of roads). It stretched 540 km and remains partially passable today.

Explanation: A legion had about 5,000 to 6,000 men, divided into cohorts and centuries. At its peak, the Roman army had about thirty legions.

Explanation: Hannibal Barca, considered one of history's greatest military strategists, crossed the Alps with 37 war elephants. Despite spectacular victories like Cannae, he never captured Rome.

Explanation: Nero is accused by legend of playing the lyre during the Great Fire of Rome. In reality, he was in Antium and returned to organize relief efforts.

Explanation: The Pax Romana (27 BC - 180 AD) was a period of stability without major wars. The Empire reached its maximum extent and trade flourished.

Explanation: The Roman Senate, created under the monarchy, survived through all eras. Under the Empire, it lost real power but remained a prestigious institution.

Explanation: Hadrian's Wall, built from 122 AD, marked the northern frontier of the Empire in Britain. At 117 km long, it remains one of the best-preserved Roman monuments.