The Roman Empire was a powerful ancient civilization that began in the city of Rome around 27 BCE and lasted until about 476 CE in the West. It expanded across Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, becoming one of the largest empires in history. The empire was known for its advanced engineering, including roads, aqueducts, and monumental buildings like the Colosseum. At its height, the Roman Empire was ruled by emperors, with notable figures such as Augustus and Julius Caesar. The empire played a crucial role in spreading Roman law, culture, and language, which influenced many modern societies. Its decline was marked by internal strife and invasions by various tribes.