Rome was situated near the sea (close enough for trade, but far enough to avoid attacks by pirates)

Rome had seven hills

Rome was located next to the Tiber River

The hills lay above the Tiber River and provided protection from invaders

Rome lay in the middle of an important trade route

Rome was in the middle of many trade routes (the sea to the left, advanced northern and southern tribal neighbors)

Rome's strategic location paved the way for dominance of the Mediterranean 

Early Romans were influenced by advanced tribes to the north and south of Rome

Early Romans embraced the cultures of their neighbors 

They traded olive oil, wine, and other goods

Trade made Romans wealthy

Rome began to build important government buildings

The seven hills had homes, temples, and places for entertainment

Roads led from Rome to the outside world

Lands around Rome were very fertile (perfect for growing crops to feed the growing population)

The Roman climate was mild, and there were plenty of good water sources

Roman agriculture thrived (making many Romans very wealthy)

Rome soon took over the entire lands that surrounded it (modern-day Italy)

Rome was on the verge of becoming a superpower