18/12/2016
The imposing Aurelian Walls stand as a testament to the engineering prowess and defensive needs of the Roman Empire. These formidable fortifications, which once encircled the heart of the Eternal City, were not merely a physical barrier but a symbol of Rome's determination to protect itself during a period of significant upheaval. Their construction marked a pivotal moment in the city's history, replacing an earlier, less substantial defensive system and shaping the urban landscape for centuries to come.
The Need for New Defences
By the 3rd century AD, the Roman Empire, despite its vastness and military might, was facing increasing external pressures. Barbarian tribes, emboldened by internal Roman weaknesses, began to pose a more serious threat to the empire's borders. Rome itself, the symbolic and administrative centre of this sprawling dominion, was no longer considered invulnerable. The existing Servian Wall, a defensive structure that had protected the city since the 4th century BC, had become inadequate. It was largely built of earth and timber, and its circuit did not encompass the rapidly expanding suburbs of Rome. The growing population and the city's increased importance demanded a more robust and comprehensive defensive system. Emperor Aurelian recognized this pressing need and initiated a monumental construction project to safeguard the capital.
Construction Under Emperor Aurelian
The construction of the Aurelian Walls commenced in 271 AD and was completed in 275 AD during the reign of Emperor Aurelian. This relatively rapid construction period, spanning just four years, highlights the urgency and the significant resources mobilised for this critical undertaking. The walls were primarily built using brick-faced concrete, a material that provided both strength and durability. The typical height of the walls was around 11 metres (36 feet), and they were punctuated by numerous towers, spaced approximately 100 Roman feet apart. These towers provided strategic vantage points for defenders and allowed for flanking fire along the wall's face. The circuit of the Aurelian Walls was extensive, measuring approximately 19 kilometres (12 miles) in length, enclosing an area of about 13.7 square kilometres (5.3 square miles). This significantly larger perimeter incorporated areas that had previously been outside the Servian Wall, including the Tiber Island, the Trastevere district, and the Janiculum Hill.
Key Features and Defensive Capabilities
The Aurelian Walls were a sophisticated defensive system for their time. Several key features contributed to their effectiveness:
- Height and Thickness: The substantial height and thickness of the walls made them difficult to breach by direct assault.
- Towers: The regularly spaced towers provided enfilading fire, allowing defenders to shoot along the length of the walls, a crucial advantage against attacking forces.
- Battlements and Parapets: The top of the walls featured battlements and parapets, offering protection to the soldiers stationed there.
- Moat: In some sections, a moat was dug in front of the walls, further hindering attackers and creating an additional obstacle.
- Gates: The walls were pierced by numerous gates, strategically placed to control access to the city and to facilitate the movement of troops and supplies. Notable gates include the Porta Flaminia, Porta Salaria, Porta Nomentana, and Porta Tiburtina.
Superseding the Servian Wall
The Aurelian Walls effectively rendered the older Servian Wall obsolete. While the Servian Wall had served Rome for centuries, its limited scope and less robust construction made it increasingly vulnerable in the face of new military technologies and tactics. The Aurelian Walls represented a significant upgrade in Roman military engineering and a proactive response to the evolving geopolitical landscape. The Servian Wall, though largely superseded, was not entirely dismantled and in some sections, its remains can still be found incorporated into later structures or visible in archaeological excavations, offering a glimpse into Rome's earlier defensive history.
Later Modifications and Reinforcements
The Aurelian Walls, while a formidable structure, were not static. Over the centuries, they underwent numerous modifications and reinforcements to adapt to changing military needs and urban development. During the siege of Rome by the Ostrogoths in 537 AD, the Byzantine general Belisarius made significant improvements, including rebuilding collapsed sections, repairing towers, and even adding new defensive elements. Later, during the medieval period, the walls were further strengthened, and some of the original gates were modified or replaced. The papacy also invested in the maintenance and enhancement of the walls, recognizing their continued importance in protecting the city. These subsequent additions and repairs have resulted in a complex layering of architectural styles and construction techniques, reflecting the long and varied history of the walls.
The Aurelian Walls Today
Today, large portions of the Aurelian Walls still stand, circling the historic centre of Rome. They are a tangible connection to the city's ancient past and a popular attraction for tourists and history enthusiasts. While their military function has long ceased, they remain an iconic landmark, evoking the grandeur and resilience of the Roman Empire. Walking along sections of the walls or viewing them from afar provides a powerful sense of scale and an appreciation for the immense effort involved in their construction. The durability of the materials and the quality of the Roman engineering are evident in the sections that have survived for over 1700 years. The walls are a constant reminder of Rome's rich history and its enduring legacy as a global capital.
Comparative Overview: Servian vs. Aurelian Walls
To better understand the significance of the Aurelian Walls, a comparison with their predecessor is insightful:
| Feature | Servian Wall | Aurelian Walls |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Period | 4th Century BC | 271-275 AD |
| Primary Materials | Tuff, volcanic rock, timber | Brick-faced concrete |
| Approximate Length | 11 km (6.8 miles) | 19 km (12 miles) |
| Approximate Height | ~6-7 metres (20-23 feet) | ~11 metres (36 feet) |
| Key Purpose | Early defence of Rome's core | Defence of a much larger, expanding Rome against significant external threats |
| Towers | Limited | Numerous, regularly spaced |
Frequently Asked Questions
When exactly were the Aurelian Walls built?
The Aurelian Walls were constructed between 271 AD and 275 AD.
Who commissioned the construction of the Aurelian Walls?
The walls were commissioned by the Roman Emperor Aurelian.
Why were the Aurelian Walls built?
They were built to provide a more substantial and comprehensive defence for the city of Rome, which was facing increased threats from external barbarian tribes and had outgrown its previous fortifications, the Servian Wall.
What were the Aurelian Walls made of?
They were primarily constructed from brick-faced concrete, a strong and durable building material.
How long are the Aurelian Walls?
The Aurelian Walls have a circuit of approximately 19 kilometres (12 miles).
Do the Aurelian Walls still exist today?
Yes, significant portions of the Aurelian Walls still stand and are a prominent feature of the city of Rome.
The construction of the Aurelian Walls was a monumental undertaking that reflected the changing fortunes and defensive requirements of the Roman Empire. From their inception under Emperor Aurelian to their enduring presence today, these walls have witnessed the rise and fall of empires, serving as an unwavering symbol of Rome's resilience and historical significance. Their architectural grandeur and strategic importance continue to captivate and inform, offering invaluable insights into the military and urban planning of the ancient world.
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