How Do You Spell PORTA CAPENA?

Pronunciation: [pˈɔːtə kˈe͡ɪpnə] (IPA)

The spelling of the Latin term "porta capena" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word is pronounced /ˈpɔrta ˈka.pɛ.na/ and is composed of two words: "porta" meaning "gate" and "capena" meaning "Capuan". The "c" in "capena" is pronounced as /k/ and the "e" is pronounced as /ɛ/. The stress is on the second syllable, indicated by the accent mark. This term refers to the southern gate of ancient Rome, which was an important landmark for commerce and social events.

PORTA CAPENA Meaning and Definition

  1. Porta Capena is a Latin term referring to an ancient gate located in the Servian Wall, one of the earliest defensive walls in Rome, Italy. The term is widely known for its historical and cultural significance, and it encompasses various aspects related to Roman architecture, history, and mythology.

    The Porta Capena gate served as the southeastern entrance to the city of Rome and was a vital point of access for travelers, merchants, and Roman armies. The gate derived its name from the location's association with the nearby Capena Gate, which led towards the ancient town of Capena.

    With regards to its architectural features, Porta Capena consisted of massive stone walls with arched doorways and was adorned with decorative elements, including columns, statues, and inscriptions. The gate represented the grandeur and military strength of ancient Rome.

    The significance of Porta Capena also extends beyond its physical structure. It was an important gathering place for citizens, hosting religious processions, political meetings, and celebrations. Furthermore, in Roman mythology, it carried symbolic relevance. It was believed that the god Mars, the divine protector of Rome, left the city through the Porta Capena to fight in battles.

    Today, while the Servian Wall and the original gate of Porta Capena no longer exist, the area is marked by various monuments, including the Baths of Caracalla and the Circus Maximus, which serve as reminders of the gate's historical importance.

Etymology of PORTA CAPENA

The word "Porta Capena" has its roots in Latin.

"Porta" (plural: portae) means "gate" or "door" in Latin. It derives from the verb "portare", which means "to carry" or "to bear". In this context, "porta" specifically refers to a gate in the city of Rome.

"Capena" is derived from "Capua", a city in ancient Italy that served as an important trade hub. It was located roughly 180 kilometers southeast of Rome. Over time, the name "Capua" morphed into "Capena", which was then associated with the specific gate in Rome.

The "Porta Capena" was one of the gates in the Servian Wall, Rome's ancient defensive wall constructed during the 4th century BC.