How Has Rome Influenced Modern Society?

Rome’s influence upon the modern world is difficult to overstate. Over the 2000+ years since its fall, the country’s impact can be found in almost every corner of public life, from the language we speak to the financial and legal systems we follow. This influence has been so great that Rome is often called the Eternal City, and with good reason—the nation has left its mark upon world history in countless ways.

Language

In terms of language, Latin was once the lingua franca of Europe. This international language, first spread by Roman legions during the conquest of the Mediterranean world, was the basis for most of the Romance languages we use today, including Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, and Romanian.

Religion

Rome has also had a revolutionary impact on religious views and practices, particularly in Europe and the Mediterranean Middle East. The Roman Empire was one of the first to require a single faith (followers of the Olympian gods and goddesses) to be followed by all its citizens, followed by Christianity under Constantine’s rule. The idea of a centrally administered, single state church would remain dominant in Europe until recently.

Law

The Roman legal system has had a tremendous influence on the development of law in many nations. Roman law was the first to develop a codified system of jurisprudence which enabled legal decisions to be made systematically and expeditiously across all provinces. This system, known as the Corpus Juris Civilis or Justinian Code, was adopted by many subsequent legal systems and forms the basis of civil law to this day.

Architecture

Rome’s influence on architecture is difficult to overlook. The Colosseum and Pantheon have become globally recognized symbols of classical architecture and are still renowned for their distinctive aesthetic and technical innovation. In addition, the engineering feats of the Romans are still celebrated for their creativity and utilisation of technology, such as their use of arches which allowed for much larger structures than before.

Political Thought

Since antiquity, Rome’s political thought—largely expressed through its greatest jurist, Cicero—has shaped discussion of politics around the world. His work shaped medieval political thought by influencing Europe’s medieval legal scholar Baldus de Ubaldis and by becoming the basis of Thomas Aquinas’ four treatises on political philosophy. From there it spread further, through Baruch Spinoza’s works right up to modern day political debate. Alongside Aristotle, Cicero’s works continue to inspire political discourse.

In conclusion, Rome’s influence upon modern society is vast and enduring. Its impact upon language, religion, law, architecture, and political thought is still felt today and will likely remain significant for centuries to come. From Latin to Cicero’s writings, from the Colosseum to the Justinian Code, Rome’s legacy continues to shape our world.
Ancient-Rome is an amazing website to consult when it comes to discovering more about its culture.

Insider’s Guide to Rome – The Eternal City

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city that has shaped the course of history for centuries. Nicknamed the Eternal City, Rome has been at the forefront of art, architecture, and culture. Today, the many sites and attractions of Rome continue to captivate visitors and influence modern society. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a deep dive into some of the top things to do in Rome, local dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Attractions to Visit:

1. The Colosseum – As one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome, the Colosseum is a must-visit. This amphitheater was built in 70AD and has since been used for gladiator contests, animal hunts, and even mock sea battles. Visitors can explore the arena, underground cells, and museum chronicling the Colosseum’s history.

2. The Vatican City – For those interested in art and history, a visit to the Vatican City is a must. It is the smallest sovereign state in the world and the headquarters of the Catholic Church. Among its most famous attractions are the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums.

3. The Trevi Fountain – Rome’s most famous fountain is undoubtedly the Trevi Fountain. It is said that throwing a coin into the fountain guarantees a return visit to Rome.

4. The Pantheon – The Pantheon is a fascinating landmark in Rome that has been in use for almost 2000 years. It is a Roman temple dedicated to all the gods and has had different uses over the years, but today, it is a church. Visitors can marvel at the astonishing architecture, and the influence of the Pantheon has been evident in many modern buildings.

Best Dining Spots:

1. Pizzeria La Montecarlo – If you’re looking for delicious traditional Roman pizza, Pizzeria La Montecarlo is a great option. It is a family-run pizzeria known for its mouth-watering margherita pizza.

2. Roscioli – For delicious Italian cuisine, Roscioli is an excellent dining spot that is well-known amongst the locals. It offers various dishes, from traditional pasta dishes to modern cuisine.

3. La Prosciutteria – This eatery is a great option for those looking for Italian meats and cheeses. La Prosciutteria offers an extensive array of charcuterie, cheeses, and starters, making it the perfect spot for a brunch or a late-night snack.

Cultural Experiences:

1. Visit Villa Borghese – A visit to Villa Borghese, one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Rome, is an excellent cultural experience. This enormous green space offers a range of activities like taking a bike ride, visiting the beautiful Borghese Gallery, or having a picnic surrounded by nature.

2. Explore Trastevere – Trastevere is Rome’s most trendy and bohemian district. This charming neighborhood’s color, vibrant street art, and artisanal shops embody the Italian culture and creativity.

Local History:

1. The Appian Way – As one of the oldest roads in Rome, the Appian Way was built during the Roman Republic era. It is a monumental work of engineering that stretches over 350 miles from Rome to southern Italy and has played a significant role in spreading trade, religion, and culture across ancient Rome.

2. The Catacombs – Beneath Rome’s streets lie a network of catacombs that were used by ancient Romans as burial sites. Visitors can take a tour of the catacombs and learn about the fascinating history they hold.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions:

1. The Orange Garden – The Orange Garden offers beautiful views of Rome and is an excellent spot to catch the sunset. It is a peaceful garden that brings visitors closer to nature and away from the noisy hustle and bustle of the city.

2. The Rose Garden – The Rose Garden is another picturesque garden in Rome that is often overlooked by tourists. It is a tranquil spot with winding paths and over 1,100 varieties of roses to admire.

In conclusion, Rome’s impact on modern society is undeniable. It’s an alluring city, rich in history, art, and culture. In this insider’s guide, we have shared some of the top attractions to visit, best dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your visit unforgettable.