what is the main reason that rome was built on hills

Defense

The main reason that Rome was built on hills was for defensive purposes. The early settlers of Rome chose to build on the seven hills surrounding the Tiber River because this location provided strategic advantages for defense against potential invaders.

To understand the reasoning behind this decision, it's helpful to consider the geographical features of the region. Rome is situated in the central part of Italy, where it is surrounded by flat plains. By building on the hills, Romans gained a natural advantage over their enemies as it allowed them to have a vantage point and better visibility of the surrounding landscape.

Moreover, the hills provided a natural barrier against attacks. Due to the difficult terrain, it was more challenging for invading armies to approach the city, particularly during ancient times when siege warfare tactics were predominantly used.

Additionally, the hills offered essential protection against floods, a common hazard in the Tiber River area. By building on higher ground, the Romans minimized the risk of damage and destruction caused by flooding.

Overall, the defensive advantages, improved visibility, and protection from floods were the main reasons why Rome was built on hills.