In 753 BC from a small Latin village it became the center of one of the worlds largest empires. First ruled by Etruscan kings and then the Roman Republic around 509 BC until the Roman Empire in 27 BC. After raids by barbarians and finally the Normans in 1084, Rome after almost 1,000 years of being the wealthiest and most dominant city in the world went into decline. This continued into the medieval period but, it retained importance as the capitol of the newly formed Papal states. With the unification of Italy in the late 19th century Rome became the capitol of modern day Italy. While a great deal of ancient Rome was destroyed from the pilferaging of raiders and the church, there is still enough left to see to experience the greatness that once was Rome. However, todays Rome is a place of romantic beauty and charm beyond that of old Rome. The food, nightlife and great shopping is comparable to any other great city in the world. There is so much to do and enjoy, you’ll want to go back.