Why is the eagle the symbol of Rome?

The Roman emblem was inspired by the Etruscan tradition; already in ancient times it consisted of a wooden or metal pole, surmounted by a small statue of a predatory animal, often represented by the eagle. This emblem represented the Roman legion and was fiercely defended, as its loss was a sign of defeat.

Among the various emblems, the eagle has emerged as the symbol par excellence of Rome, but why this animal, and not others, such as the legendary she-wolf? Historical events shed light on this mystery.

What is the symbol of the city of Rome?

In ancient times, the eagle represented the power of Rome and its empire, so much so that it was the main emblem of the Roman army.

This bird, seen as a messenger of the gods, was associated with sovereignty, victory and divine protection, making it a powerful emblem for the Eternal City. Over the centuries, the eagle has established itself as the true symbol of Rome, and is depicted as a silver eagle in the coat of arms of the Province of Rome.

What does the eagle symbolise for Rome?

In ancient mythology and art, the eagle was considered to be a divine bird. This predator represented Jupiter, the father of the gods and protector of the state. Its high and swift flight made it a link between heaven and earth, a symbol of power, victory and prosperity.

During the Republican era, the eagle became the military emblem of the Roman legions, symbolising supremacy, sovereignty and royalty. This predator feeds on snakes, symbols of darkness, so the eagle embodied the triumph of good over evil.

As a Christian symbol, it represented Saint John the Evangelist, and in heraldry, it was one of the most widespread emblems, used as an image by many noble families.

Why does the eagle symbolise Rome?

The eagle was chosen as the symbol of the Roman legions by order of the consul Gaius Marius in 103 BC. He adopted the eagle as the only emblem of war, entrusting it to the “aquilifer”, or the bearer of the eagle, who fiercely defended it, as is still the case today today during some re-enactments or rituals staged before the start of a football match.

The presence of the eagle in the legion testified to the divine support of Roman weapons, sanctioned in the augural ceremonies of the battle in the temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus.

Even after the fall of the Roman Empire, the eagle continued to be used as a symbol of power in the major European empires, including the Holy Roman Empire, Germany, Russia and the United States.

What does the she-wolf represent for Rome?

In addition to the eagle, and other wild animals, the she-wolf is another symbol of Rome, more closely linked to the legend of the founding of the city. According to myth, Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome, were suckled by a she-wolf.

This image is represented in the famous statue of the Capitoline Wolf, which dates back to the Middle Ages with Renaissance additions. The animal was sacred to Mars, the god of war and father of the twins, and symbolised maternal protection and the aggressive strength necessary for survival.

In fact, the she-wolf embodies the very essence of the city of Rome: fierce but protective, wild but the founder of civilization. Today, its symbolism remains strong, as evidenced by replicas around the world and continuous allusions to it in modern culture, making it a popular global icon, the identity of Rome in the world.

Article translated by Jasmina Towers

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Curiosities

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