Page 28 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Rome

26  INTRODUCING ROME

Imperial Rome

In 44 BC Caesar became dictator for life, only to be
assassinated a month later. The result was 17 years of civil war,
which ended only in 27 BC when Augustus became Rome’s
first emperor. The Empire expanded in fits and starts, but by
the late 3rd century was so huge that Diocletian decided to
share it between four emperors. Thanks to trade and taxes
from its vast domains, Rome was the most magnificent city in
the world, studded with the lavish buildings of emperors eager Extent of the City
to advertise their civic munificence and military triumphs. AD 250 Today

Cross-vaulted
ceiling with
mosaic
decoration

Natatio
(swimming
pool)

Apotheosis of Augustus
The first and perhaps the greatest
Roman emperor, Augustus ruled
for 27 years and was deified by
the Senate after his death.

The baths could hold up to 3,000
people. They met to gossip in the Area for exercise
central frigidarium (cold room). and gymnastics

The Roman Empire under Trajan
By the 2nd century AD, the Roman Empire stretched
from Britain to Syria, and Rome was known as the
Caput Mundi, the head of the world.

49 BC Caesar 64 Fire during
crosses the Nero’s rule 65 First persecution of
Rubicon and 27 Augustus destroys Christians under Nero
takes Rome becomes first much of 72 Colosseum begun
emperor Emperor Nero the city
50 BC 0 AD 50 100
44 Caesar becomes AD 42 St. Peter the 67 St. Peter is crucified and
dictator for life, and is Apostle comes to Rome St. Paul executed in Rome
murdered by Brutus 13 Ara Pacis is erected to 125 Hadrian
and Cassius redesigns the
celebrate the peace Augustus Statue of St. Peter in San
has secured in the Empire Paolo fuori le Mura Pantheon

US_026-027_EW_Rome_US.indd 26 15/03/17 3:52 pm