Lecture #2: When Was Ancient Rome Really Founded?

by Dr. Philip Matyszak
published on 30 September 2026

1

This text is available in other languages:

• French

bookmark_addbookmark_addedSave Video

Dr. Philip 'Maty' Matyszak, author of Rome Before Rome (May 2025), explores the debated origins of Rome: whether it was an organic growth or a deliberate foundation. Matyszak makes a compelling case for Rome as a planned act of statecraft. From symbolic founding dates to strategic geography and the lasting influence of foundational myths, this lecture offers deep insight into how cities emerge and how myths shape culture.

They also examine Rome's enduring impact on modern identity and discuss how to avoid projecting modern assumptions onto ancient history. The talk wraps up with book recommendations and reflections on reading classical sources.

— BUY THE BOOK HERE —
Rome Before Rome: The Legends That Shaped the Romans
by Philip Matyszak
https://www.worldhistory.org/books/0500028311

The Greek and Roman Myths: A Guide to the Classical Stories
by Philip Matyszak
https://www.worldhistory.org/books/0500251738

Chronicle of the Roman Republic: The Rulers of Ancient Rome from Romulus to Augustus (Chronicles)
by Philip Matyszak
https://www.worldhistory.org/books/0500287635

— BUY OUR MERCH —
https://www.worldhistory.store​/​

— SUPPORT US VIA OUR PATREON—
https://www.patreon.com/join/whencyclopedia

— ATTRIBUTIONS —
The music used in this recording is the intellectual copyright of Michael Levy, a prolific composer for the recreated lyres of antiquity, and used with the creator's permission. Michael Levy's music is available to stream at all the major digital music platforms. Find out more on:
https://www.ancientlyre.com
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7Dx2vFEg8DmOJ5YCRm4A5v?si=emacIH9CRieFNGXRUyJ9
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ1X6F7lGMEadnNETSzTv8A

World History Encyclopedia
www.worldhistory.org

#history #historybooks