Romulus, Remus, and the Birth of Roman Identity
The founding of Rome is tied to the myth of Romulus and Remus twin brothers raised by a she-wolf and destined for greatness.
The Central Story
According to legend:
The twins were descendants of Aeneas of Troy
They were abandoned at birth and rescued by a wolf
They grew into leaders who chose the site of Rome
Romulus killed Remus during a dispute and became the city’s first king
How the Myth Shaped Rome
The story emphasized values Romans admired:
Strength
Divine favor
Destiny
Loyalty to the city above all
Myth and Reality
While archaeological evidence shows early settlements on the Palatine Hill, the myth served more as a political tool that united Rome and justified its power.
A Legend That Lives On
Even today, the tale of Romulus and Remus symbolizes Rome’s origins and its enduring cultural legacy.
