THE DAY ROME BURNED

BIJELJINA, JULY 17 /SRNA/ – The Great Fire of Rome, which broke out on July 18, AD 64, devastated much of the city. According to the traditional version of events, the fire was started by Emperor Nero, although historical sources do not conclusively support that claim.

Nero blamed Christians for the fire and subjected them to brutal persecution.

The Roman emperor ascended to the throne in AD 54 as the adopted heir of Emperor Claudius and remained in power until his death by suicide.

Nero's reign is remembered for its extravagance, ambitious building projects, the Great Fire of Rome and unrest in the provinces.

His downfall marked the end of the Julio-Claudian dynasty, whose members had ruled Rome for more than a century.