Ancient Capua: A City of Luxury and Rebellion in Italy

Capua was an ancient city of Italy, situated about 25 miles southeast of Naples, on the left bank of the River Volturno. It was a place of great antiquity and importance in the early days of Rome, and was famous for its beautiful situation, its rich soil, and its numerous and wealthy inhabitants.

The city was founded by the Oscans, a tribe of the Samnite race, and was afterwards taken possession of by the Romans, who made it one of their most important colonies in Italy. It was here that the famous Roman general, Scipio Africanus, resided, and it was from this city that he set out on his campaigns against Hannibal in Africa.

Capua was also famous for its luxury and extravagance, and was often referred to as the "Rome of the South." The city was adorned with magnificent public buildings, temples, and theaters, and was renowned for its wealthy citizens and their lavish living.

Despite its prosperity and importance, Capua was eventually destroyed by the Romans themselves, who were dissatisfied with the city's excesses and rebellious spirit. Today, the site of ancient Capua is a vast archaeological site, where visitors can see the remains of the city's once-grand buildings and streets.