Festival Natale di Roma – celebration of the founding of the city of Rome

Rome's birthday celebrations or Natale di Roma include historical reenactments with costume parades and gladiatorials.. Known as Natale di Roma, the annual birthday celebration on April 21 is based on the legendary founding of Rome by Romulus in 753 BC.

Events are usually centered at the Circus Maximus and include dugouts and rituals, known as tracciato del solco, which recall the founding of ancient Roman towns when a trench or mundus was dug and offerings to protect the inhabitants of Rome.

Other performances include Palilia, the goddess of agriculture. Dating from before the founding of Rome, the ceremony was held in honor of the goddess Pales, protector of herds and herds, and involved vestal virgins distributing straw and ashes and the blood of the animals. sacrificed before jumping over the fire three times.

The highlight of the Natale di Roma, the grand parade, usually takes place along the Via dei Fori Imperiali, with more than 1,500 participants. The competition is organized by Gruppo Storico Romano, a historical dramatic society that has, for more than 20 years, brought back history by recreating battles, historical events and showcasing ancient theater and dance. in the city center.

The Natale di Roma festival is the biggest tourist attraction to Rome of the year. In this festival, visitors not only learn about the history of Rome but also admire the colorful parade and spectacular performances. This is an event not to be missed in April in Rome.