Amusing Historical Facts about the Eternal City

The city of Rome preserves the bygone era in its beautiful antiquities. Naturally, the Eternal City is a fascinating historical subject for archaeologists. They are always exploring its rich past to reveal new findings. Interested to know some lesser-known secrets about Rome? Just read on. And if you have time to spare, do fly down to the Eternal City with Vatican city tours or tours of the Vatican.

Not first, neither second, Rome is the third capital of Italy!

A city preserving centuries of history – Rome is a delight for admirers of art, culture and antique treasures. However, this legendary city didn’t always enjoy the status of Italy’s capital. Back in 1861 when the current state of Italy was established, Rome wasn’t even a part of the country. The pope included the Eternal City within the Papal States, which was his sovereign province covering a large part of modern central Italy.

Back then, the Savoy family, the first monarchs of newly formed Italy, selected Turin as the capital for the convenience of governing the country from their hometown. In 1865, the capital was shifted to south of Florence as Turin was vulnerable to invasions by the French and the Italian government was keen on acquiring territories from the pope. Finally, Rome was annexed in 1870 and a year later it became Italy’s definitive capital.

The Papal Pornocracy

10th century is commonly known as the Dark Ages in the history of the Catholic Church. Previously, this period was sometimes called ‘The Papal Pornocracy’.

The phase between 896 and 904 saw intense power battles involving at least eight popes and also one anti-pope. Peace was restored briefly when Pope Sergius III was elected – he remained in power for seven long years! During his rule, he became infatuated with Theodora and her charming teenage daughter Marozia. Theodora was the extremely attractive wife of the Count of Tusculum, named Theophylact. Sergius and Marozia’s dalliance led to the birth several future popes. Theodora and her daughters enjoyed great influence in the court and also helped organize several papal elections.

Women exerting such dominance over the pope were unprecedented. Catholic misogyny ensured that such formidable women were referred to as ‘harlots’. No wonder that historians have termed this period as ‘Papal Pornocracy’.

To keep unlocking intriguing historical stories about Rome, click here: best-of-rome.blogspot.com/2016/06/seven-interesting-things-about-rome-you-probably-didnt-know.html?view=magazine

Vatican Tours is founded on meticulous research and profound love for the Eternal City. Our expert guides with great storytelling skills can give you a rewarding peek into the city’s glorious past. Explore Rome with our Vatican City tours and take back home memories you will treasure throughout your life!