Romulus - Founding of Rome

Founding of Rome

In all versions of the founding myth, the twins grow up as shepherds. While tending their flocks, they come into conflict with the shepherds of Amulius. Remus is captured and brought before Amulius, who eventually discovers his identity. Romulus raises a band of shepherds to liberate his brother and Amulius is killed. Romulus and Remus are conjointly offered the crown but they refuse it and restore Numitor to the throne. They leave to found their own city, but cannot agree on its location; Romulus prefers the Palatine Hill, Remus prefers the Aventine Hill. They agree to seek the will of the gods in this matter, through augury. Each takes position on his respective hill and prepares a sacred space there. Remus sees six auspicious birds; but Romulus sees twelve. Romulus claims superior augury as the divine basis of his right to decide. Remus makes a counterclaim: he saw his six vultures first. Romulus sets to work with his supporters, digging a trench (or building a wall, according to Dionysius) around the Palatine to define his city boundary.