She hasn't always aged well, Roma.  She is a little rough around the edges, and in places she is showing her years, but all-in-all, the Eternal City is still a Grande Dame. 

Romans have celebrated April 21, 753 BC as the city's birthdate since the first century BC.  And do they celebrate!  Fireworks, concerts, and a festival atmosphere bring the city together for Natale di Roma each year.  

According to legend, twin brothers Romulus and Remus were responsible for the city's brith.  As infants the children were abandoned, perhaps by their jealous uncle.  But the gods smiled on them.  They were saved by a she-wolf who took them to a cave and reared them through childhood.   As men, the brothers quarrelled over where to locate their new city -- on the Capitoline Hill or on the Palatine.  Romulus killed Remus, and all roads leading to Rome ended up at the Capitoline Hill, his preference.  

So, to my favorite city -- the city I love passionately -- I say...

Buon Compleanno, Bella!