Antium

Antium, one of the most ancient cities of Latium, built on a rocky promontory running out into the sea. Being favourably situated for commerce and piracy, it became, under the Volscians, one of the most powerful enemies of rising Rome. Conquered in 468 B.C., it soon revolted, and long maintained its independence, but was at length subdued in 338 B.C. It was deprived of all its ships, the beaks of which (rostra) were carried off to ornament the platform of the speakers in the Roman forum. It became a favourite resort of the wealthy Romans, and some of the most famous remains of ancient art have been discovered among the ruins of their villas and palaces; such as the Apollo Belvedere, and the Borghese Gladiator. It was the birthplace of the Emperors Caligula and Nero.