Auguri URBE!

Every year on 21 April, the birth of Rome is celebrated in grand style. Tradition states that this day in 753BC saw the creation of the city, which conquered almost all the known world. Although this tradition originates from popular stories and is not founded in historical fact, official celebrations still take place. The majority of these occur near to the 'Milite Ignoto' (tomb of the unknown soldier) in Piazza Venezia and near the Fosse Ardeatine on Via Ardeatina, where wreaths of flowers are placed and the best bands (primarily military bands) are on parade.