April 22 marks Rome’s birthday. This year she turns 2,775 years old. To celebrate, there is an annual event, Natale di Roma, held at Circo Massimo.
This event has taken place for over two decades, put together by a Roman historical dramatic society ‘Gruppo Storico Romano’. It is a dramatised reenactment of the legend of the founding of Rome by Romulus in 753 BC. It depicts and ancient traditions, complete with costumes.
After being a virtual event for two years due to the pandemic, this year’s event is shaping up to be particularly anticipated and special.
Come and see the various performances and workshops on display at Circo Massimo from Thursday April 21 through to Sunday April 24. Be sure not to miss these!
Rome’s Birthday Celebrations
The four-day programme of Rome’s birthday event
- Thurdsay April 21: an ancient trench digging ritual scene said to have occured at the time of Rome’s founding where offering were made to ask the gods to watch over them. You can also catch a glimpse of the agricultural Palilia ceremony, in honour of the goddess Pales, protector of flocks and herds.
- Friday April 22: a day of workshops depicting ancient Roman life, including various aspects including school, clothes, medicine and religion. Get up close and personal with Gladiators showing off their weapons and combat techniques. The day ends with a concert of ancient Roman music.
- Saturday April 23: Morning workshops with an afternoon match of Harpastum, an ancient ‘rugby style’ ball game introduced to Rome from Greece. Later you may witness by the crowing of the Dea Roma, or Goddess of Rome, followed by a gladiator show.
- Sunday April 24: The Grand Parade, held at 10:30am is the highlight of the event where 1,500 costumed performers march between Circo Massimo and the Colosseum. The closing ceremony includes dancing, ceremonies and fights concluding with the Battle of Bedriacum in the afternoon.
To catch a glimpse of this free performance which theatrically depicts a historic legend that is the founding of Rome, hop over to Circo Massimo in Rome. Just a 10 minute walk from the Colosseum and right out the front of metro stop Circo Massimo on the B line, it is highly accessible and a great day out with the family.
