Historical Capitals of the World

Rome

Country: Italy

Region: Europe

Period: 753BCE-present

Location: 41.893333°N, 12.482778°E

Description

Rome, located in central Italy on the Tiber River, evolved from a small Iron Age settlement into one of history’s most influential cities. It served as the capital of the Roman Kingdom, Republic, Empire, and later significant medieval and modern states. Its political, cultural, and religious influence shaped Western civilization for over two millennia.

Modern Remains

Modern Rome is a living museum, with extensive ruins from all its historic phases. Landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon remain iconic. Vatican City, an independent city-state within Rome, continues the city’s spiritual legacy. Renaissance and Baroque architecture, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Trevi Fountain, add to its layers of history. Rome remains the capital of Italy and a major global cultural and political center.

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