| But in the first century BC, 700 years after its foundation, the whole city was to become a shrine not just to the gods, but to a man, and one man in particular. It was an innovation that had its roots in the rule of one of Rome's most outstanding leaders - Julius Caesar. Caesar's rise to power came at a time when violence, cynicism and corruption had taken hold of the Holy City. As the empire grew, the struggle for control became more and more vicious and religion was ripe for exploitation. Portents from heaven were interpreted to justify decisions. Omens and oracles were invented for political advantage. And in this world, one man stood out. |
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