The capital celebrates its 2,764th birthday on 21 April, based on the legendary foundation of Rome by Romulus in 753 BC, with a number of events being held in the city prior to the big day.

Members of historical dramatic society Gruppo Storico Romano are staging parades with gladiators, senators, vestal virgins and priestesses as well as re-enacting battles and historic events and staging displays of ancient theatre and dance in the city centre.

The foundation of Rome will be marked at 16.00 on 21 April with a trench-digging ceremony at the Circus Maximus. Known as the