Tarquinium Prisco on the Throne
Once installed on the throne, the first thing Tarquinius did was to resume the war against the Latinos. With victory, he gained more power and gained the trust of the Romans. Thanks to that increase in power, it was able to equip Rome with new defenses. He also built a famous drainage system called Cloaca Maxima and began building a temple dedicated to Jupiter on the Hill of the Capitol.
At that time something very peculiar happened: In the palace of Tarquinius, there lived the queen of one of the subjugated villages as a guest or hostage. This queen had a son named Servius Tulio. One day when little Servio slept in his crib, a mysterious halo of light appeared over his head. Everyone was astonished to see the rare spectacle, which disappeared as soon as the child woke up without causing him harm.
Tanaquil, Tarquinius' wife, who liked to interpret signs, said: This means that this child will be great and will have to be given all the care and care to protect him.
From that moment on, the child was treated as a true prince, giving him all kinds of care and attention. When Servius grew up, Tarquinius arranged for him to marry his daughter because he considered him his successor and so she would also be settled on the throne.
On the other hand, the sons of Anco Martius who were still angry with Tarquino,
Because they considered him a usurper and wanted revenge, they felt that the right time had come. Then they hired some very tough shepherds to do their job. They simulated a fight in front of the palace and were soon led in front of Tarquinius to expose the reasons for the fuss. At that time, while one of the shepherds spoke, another stood behind Tarquinius's back and stabbed a dagger in his back.
The shepherds were captured and confessed who had hired them, but in any case Tarquinius was seriously injured. As it was impossible for him to continue to rule, he called Servius and said, “I told you about the prodigy that occurred when you were a child. That a halo of light appeared above your head without harm. This was a sign from the gods to announce that you would be king of Rome. And he added — I will die soon, so the time has come to take over the throne. You must conduct yourself wisely and use wisdom to make your destiny glorious.
The Roman people of had swamped in front of the palace when they had news of the brutal attack.
Tanquil then looked out at the window of the palace and announced to the people: - Tarquinius is wounded, but soon he will recover. Meanwhile, the gods wish Servius Tulio to occupy the throne of Rome.