Curiatii

The Curiatii were a legendary Alban family prominent in early Roman tradition. According to the Roman historian Livy, in the seventh century BCE, during a conflict between Rome and the nearby city of Alba Longa, the fate of the two cities was decided by a combat between three brothers from each city. The Roman champions were the Horatii, and the Alban champions were the Curiatii.

The combat is famously recounted in the legend of Horatius Cocles. In the initial clash, two of the Horatii brothers were killed, but the remaining Horatius, feigning retreat, managed to defeat the three wounded Curiatii one by one. This victory, though costly, led to Alba Longa's submission to Rome, and the Curiatii family was subsequently integrated into Roman society. The story serves as a foundational myth for Rome, emphasizing Roman valor and the eventual dominance of Rome over its neighbors. The Curiatii, therefore, represent a crucial element in the narrative of Rome's early expansion and the establishment of its power.