What is cloelia?

Cloelia was a Roman heroine who lived in the 6th century BC. She is remembered for her bravery and loyalty during the early Roman Republic. According to legend, Cloelia was one of the hostages taken by the Etruscan king Lars Porsena during his siege of Rome.

Cloelia and several other young Roman women managed to escape from their captors and cross the Tiber River back to Rome. When Porsena demanded that Cloelia be returned to him, the Roman Senate was so impressed by her courage that they allowed her to choose half of the hostages to be released. Cloelia chose the younger boys, who were returned to Porsena, while she remained in Rome as a symbol of Roman honor.

Cloelia's bravery and loyalty made her a celebrated figure in Roman history and she was later honored with a statue in Rome. Her story has been depicted in art, literature, and even inspired an opera. Cloelia serves as a reminder of the virtues of courage, loyalty, and sacrifice in Roman society.