Roman Kingdom

In this episode, we examine the Roman Kingdom, the earliest phase of Rome’s history, from its traditional founding in 753 BCE to the establishment of the Republic in 509 BC. We explore the era of the seven legendary kings, whose rule combined military, judicial, and religious power under the concept of imperium, and consider how figures like Romulus were credited with shaping Rome’s earliest institutions. The episode also looks at the influence of later Etruscan rulers, who introduced major architectural and social reforms, and explains how the kingdom functioned as an elective monarchy supported by a Senate that largely advised the king. Blending archaeology with enduring myth, this story culminates in the overthrow of Tarquinius Superbus, whose downfall marked the end of monarchy and the beginning of Rome’s republican age.