The First Structures Built in Rome: From Shepherd’s Huts to Temples and Beyond
The First Structures Built in Rome: From Shepherd’s Huts to Temples and Beyond
Overlooking the ancient ruins of Rome, one question often arises: What was the first structure built in Rome? The answer is not as straightforward as some may think, given that Rome's history is intertwined with mythology, legend, and archaeological findings. This article delves deep into the early days of Rome, exploring the first buildings and constructions that laid the foundation for one of the world's greatest empires.
Shepherd's Huts and Etruscan Villages
The origins of Rome are shrouded in a complex mix of historical fact and colorful legend. According to tradition, Rome was founded by the twin brothers Romulus and Remus in 753 BCE. Before this, there were Villanovan villages in the area, which were the progenitors of the Etruscan civilization. These early inhabitants lived in simple abodes like the reconstructed Villanovan huts found in Bologna, as seen in the photos below. These structures, the first in what would become Rome, were humble and utilitarian, providing shelter for Rome’s earliest inhabitants.
Plowing the Pomerium and the First Sacred Work
According to legend, Romulus was the one to mark the sacred boundary of the city by plowing a divine boundary (pomerium) around a hill, the Palatine. Romulus harnessed a pair of oxen and plowed a sacred furrow to establish the boundary. The first structure dedicated and recognized by the newfound Rome was a round thatch hut said to be Romulus's own. This hut, believed to be located on the Palatine Hill, marked a significant step in the formation of Rome.
The Temple of Jupiter
Archaeological evidence suggests that the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus was one of the first significant constructions in Rome. Built on the Capitoline Hill in 509 BCE, it was established in the aftermath of the expulsion of the last Roman king, Tarquinius Superbus. Dedicated to Jupiter, the chief deity in Roman mythology, the temple quickly became a central place of worship for the Roman people. It was constructed on a substantial scale, with monumental architecture and complex engineering, setting a precedent for future constructions in the city.
The Roman Forum
While the Temple of Jupiter is historically recognized as one of the first important structures, the political and social heart of Rome began to develop with the Roman Forum. Arising around the same time, the Forum began to take shape as the city's central public square and marketplace. The earliest Forum was a simple structure, but it laid the groundwork for the complex and meticulously planned city that Rome would become in the following centuries.
The First Thing Built in the Roman Empire
When considering the Roman Empire specifically, the first buildings may vary depending on interpretation. One notable structure is the Pantheon, which was not built for the senators but served as a temple dedicated to all the gods of Roman mythology. Although the original Pantheon was likely built in the 2nd century CE during the reign of Hadrian, its presence highlights the enduring legacy of early Roman construction and architectural principles.
Early Public Works and Public Life
Beyond temples and forums, the early Roman Empire is marked by significant public works such as aqueducts, road systems, and temples. These structures, including the famous Appian Way, not only served practical purposes but also reinforced the unity and strength of the Roman state. They facilitated trade, administration, and religious worship, laying the foundation for the monumental architecture and engineering that defined the Roman Empire.
Conclusion
The first structures built in Rome, while shrouded in legend and history, signify the birth of a great civilization. From humble shepherd's huts to the grand temples and forums, these early constructions laid the foundation for the city that would become the heart of the Roman Empire. Understanding these early structures provides valuable insights into the development of one of the world's most influential cultures.