Rome History Timeline and Biographies | History Timeline Generator

753 BC

The Legendary Founding of Rome

According to legend, Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus on April 21, 753 BC. The twins, raised by a she-wolf, established the city after Romulus killed Remus in a dispute. This event marks the beginning of Rome's storied history as a significant urban center in ancient times.

509 BC

Establishment of the Roman Republic

In 509 BC, Rome transitioned from monarchy to a republic after the last king, Tarquin the Proud, was overthrown. This marked the beginning of a new political system characterized by elected officials and representative governance, laying the foundation for Roman political institutions.

390 BC

The Sack of Rome by the Gauls

In 390 BC, Rome faced a devastating attack from the Gauls, who sacked the city. This event shook the Roman populace and led to significant military reforms, ultimately strengthening Rome's defenses and military organization in subsequent years.

264-146 BC

The Punic Wars

The Punic Wars, fought between Rome and Carthage, occurred from 264 to 146 BC. These conflicts were pivotal in establishing Rome as a dominant power in the Mediterranean, culminating in the destruction of Carthage and Rome's expansion into North Africa.

44 BC

Assassination of Julius Caesar

Julius Caesar, a key figure in the rise of the Roman Empire, was assassinated on the Ides of March in 44 BC. His death led to a power struggle and the eventual rise of his heir, Octavian, marking the end of the Roman Republic and the beginning of imperial rule.

27 BC

The Birth of the Roman Empire

In 27 BC, Octavian was granted the title of Augustus, marking the official transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire. This period ushered in an era of relative peace known as the Pax Romana, which lasted for over two centuries.

64 AD

The Great Fire of Rome

In 64 AD, a massive fire devastated large parts of Rome, leading to significant destruction. Emperor Nero controversially blamed Christians for the fire, which resulted in widespread persecution and marked a turning point in the relationship between Rome and early Christianity.

313 AD

Edict of Milan and Religious Tolerance

The Edict of Milan, issued by Emperor Constantine in 313 AD, granted religious tolerance to Christians in the Roman Empire. This marked a significant shift in Rome's religious landscape, allowing Christianity to flourish and eventually become the state religion.

395 AD

Division of the Roman Empire

In 395 AD, the Roman Empire was permanently divided into the Western Roman Empire and the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire) upon the death of Emperor Theodosius I. This division set the stage for the decline of the Western Roman Empire and the continued prosperity of the East.

476 AD

Fall of the Western Roman Empire

The Western Roman Empire officially fell in 476 AD when the last emperor, Romulus Augustulus, was deposed by the Germanic king Odoacer. This event is often marked as the end of ancient Rome and the beginning of the Middle Ages in Europe.

800 AD

Charlemagne Crowned Emperor of the Romans

In 800 AD, Charlemagne was crowned Emperor of the Romans by Pope Leo III, symbolizing the revival of the idea of a unified Roman Empire in the West. This event marked the beginning of the Holy Roman Empire and a renewed interest in Rome's legacy.

1300-1600 AD

The Renaissance in Rome

The Renaissance, which spanned from the 14th to the 17th century, saw a cultural revival in Rome. Artists like Michelangelo and Raphael transformed the city with masterpieces, and the Vatican became a center of art and culture, revitalizing Rome's status in Europe.

1870 AD

Rome Becomes the Capital of Italy

In 1870, Rome was annexed and became the capital of the newly unified Kingdom of Italy. This marked a significant moment in modern history, re-establishing Rome as a political and cultural center in Italy and beyond.

1929 AD

Lateran Treaty and Vatican City Established

The Lateran Treaty, signed in 1929, established Vatican City as an independent sovereign state within Rome. This agreement resolved the "Roman Question" and solidified the relationship between the Italian state and the Catholic Church.

2024 AD

Rome Today: A Global City

As of 2024, Rome stands as a vibrant global city, blending ancient history with modern life. It remains a significant cultural, political, and religious center, attracting millions of tourists annually who come to explore its historic sites and rich heritage.