Throughout its three-millennia history, the city of Rome has accumulated an array of symbols, each reflecting its rich heritage and cultural legacy. These symbols range from mythological figures and architectural marvels to historic monuments and artistic representations. This article delves into the diverse symbols of Rome, revealing the stories and significance behind them.
The Capitoline She-Wolf is a central figure in Roman mythology, representing the nurturing force that raised Romulus and Remus, the twin founders of Rome. Numerous statues and images capture the she-wolf as she feeds the young brothers. The most renowned depiction of this nurturing figure can be found atop a historic column on the Capitoline Hill, while the original artwork is preserved in the Capitoline Museum.
As one of Rome’s most iconic structures, the Colosseum embodies the city’s eternal history. This colossal amphitheater, constructed by the Flavian emperors, is inextricably linked to Rome and its storied past. The famous adage “when the Colosseum falls, so too will Rome” highlights its significance and enduring presence.
Other well-known symbols of Rome include the enigmatic Mouth of Truth, the Trevi Fountain with its coin-tossing tradition, and the Pantheon, a symbol of the city’s indestructibility. The ancient Aurelian Walls also exemplify Rome’s resilience over time.
Christian iconography is evident in Roman symbolism, most prominently in the form of St. Peter’s Dome, an unmistakable fixture in the city’s skyline. Additionally, the acronym S.P.Q.R., which stands for “Of the Senate and People of Rome,” reflects the historical bond between the Senate and the populace. This acronym is incorporated into Rome’s modern coat of arms, featuring a gothic shield in red—the color of victorious Mars—with a Greek cross, followed by the gold letters S.P.Q.R. These colors are also associated with the Roma soccer team and the historic buildings in the city center. Renowned painter Renzo Vespignani famously dubbed Rome’s color as “the yellow ocher of burnt bread,” a blend of gold and red.
Ancient Rome boasted its own unique symbols, such as the Rostra, the Tiber Giant, and the Goddess Roma. In the Middle Ages, Rome was often personified as a queen, while the lion symbolized the Roman people. Presently, the Nasoni—small cast iron fountains providing fresh water—are among Rome’s most charming and ubiquitous symbols.
Other noteworthy symbols include the eagle, which represented the Roman legion and the Roman Empire; the fasces, a symbol of lawful order; the globe, denoting universal power; and the laurel tree, symbolizing the god Apollo and victory. Collectively, these symbols weave a captivating tapestry that illustrates Rome’s timeless grandeur and storied history.
