How a triumph was celebrated in ancient Rome

The triumph was one of the oldest ceremonies in Ancient Rome. The first triumph, conducted by Romulus, the founder of Rome, is described by the Greek historian Plutarch: “Wishing to lend as much splendor as possible to the fulfillment of a vow he had made to Jupiter, and to delight the citizens, Romulus ordered a huge oak to be cut down near the camp, gave it the appearance of a victory trophy, and hung upon it the armor of Acron in strict order, while he donned expensive clothing, adorned his long hair with a laurel wreath, placed his trophy on his right shoulder, then, raising it high, he sang a victory song and went forth accompanied by armed soldiers. The citizens received them with amazement mixed with delight. This solemn procession served as the beginning and model for later triumphs.”

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Tags: Ancient Rome