Focus Unlike Greece geographic characteristics in Italy provided

• Focus – Unlike Greece, geographic characteristics in Italy provided few natural barriers, helped people unite, and supported a growing population. • Do Now – Identify two geographic characteristics of Ancient Greece

Ancient Rome Geography Early Rome

Geography • Rome began on the Italian peninsula – Extends from Europe into the Mediterranean Sea

Geography • South, east, and west surrounded by Seas – Provided protection – Transportation

Geography • The Northern part of the Italian peninsula protected by the Alps – Did not isolate • Low mountains and hills throughout the rest of Italy – Did not serve as a barrier – Allowed for unity

Rome • City of Rome built along the Tiber River on 7 hills – Hills provided protection – River allowed goods to be brought down river from inland locations • Was located midway between the Alps and the southern tip of Italy

Rome • Its strategic location made it a prime city for trade • Allowed Rome to expand have access to all of the Mediterranean Sea

Geography • Most of the peninsula had fertile soil and a mild climate – Food production could support a large population

Geography • Three large plains areas: Tuscan plains Latium plains Campanian plains

Agriculture Meat Fish Fruits Sheep Figs Goats Wool Meat Apples Milk Cheese Meat Beans Cabbage Grapes Wine Vegetables Cucumbers Pears Other Lettuce Honey Olives Olive Oil

Not without reason did gods and men choose this spot for the site of our city—the hills, the river to bring us produce from the inland regions and sea-borne commerce from abroad, the sea itself, near enough for convenience yet not so near as to bring danger from foreign fleets, our situation in the very heart of Italy—all these advantages make it of all places in the world the best for a city destined to grow great. Livy, The Early History of Rome

Points for Discussion • Why was Rome’s geography favorable? • How did it help the civilization to grow?