Natale di Roma

1 / 4 © Jamie Heath 2 / 4 © Jamie Heath 3 / 4 © Jamie Heath © Jamie Heath

Every year on April 21, the city of Rome celebrates its birth. Known as Natale di Roma (Birthday of Rome), an annual festival marking the city's legendary founding in 753 BC. This anniversary blends myth, history, and pride into one of the Eternal City's significant traditions.

At the heart of Rome's origins are the twin brothers Romulus and Remus, who were sons of the god Mars and the vestal virgin Rhea Silvia. King Amulius of Alba Longa feared that his twin grandnephews would challenge his power, so he ordered them to be thrown into the river Tiber. Fortunately, they washed onto the shore and were suckled to health by a she-wolf and later raised by a shepherd named Faustulus. The twins discovered their royal lineage and reclaimed their grandfather's throne. They decided to build their own city on one of the seven hills, but the brothers feuded over the location. Remus preferred the Aventine while Romulus favored the Palatine Hill. A violent confrontation ensued, and Romulus killed his brother. He proceeded to establish a city on the Palatine Hill, naming it Rome and becoming its first king. Throughout the city, you will see the iconic image of the she-wolf and the twins as it serves as the legendary symbol of Rome.

When you see the word Natale, you automatically think of Christmas, the birth of Jesus, a Christian holiday. The birthday of Rome, called Natale di Roma, refers to the expression "dies natalis", Latin for day of birth, a secular celebration. April 21 was not randomly picked. Marcus Terentius Varro, who was considered ancient Rome's greatest scholar, concluded that Rome was founded on April 21, 783 BC. He based his calculations on the number of kings and consuls Rome had. It also coincides with the festival of Parilia, a purification rite for shepherds and their flocks. As Rome's power expanded, Parilia evolved into a civic celebration. Emperors would mark the anniversary of Rome's birth with games, ceremonies, and festivities.

In contemporary Rome, the city hosts a multi-day spectacle that honors both its history and enduring spirit. For Romans, it is a sense of pride, and for visitors, it is a unique opportunity to see history brought to life. Many museums and cultural sites host special exhibits and offer free admission. The events are largely organized by the Gruppo Storico Romano (Roman Historical Group). They transformed the Circus Maximus into an ancient village. You can witness gladiatorial combat; do not worry, they are choreographed fights that demonstrate combat skills. Military drills showing the tactics and formations used by Roman legionnaires. Workshops and exhibits highlight ancient crafts and traditional food from ancient Rome. In keeping with ancient Roman traditions, a reenactment of the Renewal of the Sacred Fire takes place. This was an everlasting flame tended by the Vestal Virgins, symbolizing the eternal life of the city.

The Dies Natalis at the Pantheon is a spectacular event that occurs annually on April 21. The iconic dome with its oculus at the apex creates a beautiful and dramatic effect. At midday, the sun shines through the oculus at such an angle that a perfect disk of light illuminates the entrance doorway. In ancient times, emperors would enter through this door, bathed in a beam of golden sunlight. This phenomenon is a testament to the Romans' advanced engineering and astronomical precision to ensure this would occur on the day of Rome's birthday.

The highlight is the massive historical parade with over 1500 participants dressed as senators, vestal virgins, centurions, and barbarians marching from the Circus Maximus, past the Colosseum, and through the historic center. As evening falls, celebrations conclude with fireworks illuminating the Roman skyline.

To celebrate Rome's birthday is to participate in a story that spans millennia, shaped by emperors, artists, saints, and citizens. April 21 is not just about looking back; it is about recognizing the enduring spirit of a city that has influenced the world in law, architecture, language, and culture. On its birthday, the Eternal City does not just remember its past, it relives it.

Related Articles:

• Arch of Constantine
• Pyramid of Cestius
• Rome City Guide
• Rome's Magic Door
• Temple of Hercules