# Maxentius

> Roman usurper (r. 306–312)

**Wikidata**: [Q182070](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q182070)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maxentius)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/maxentius

## Summary
Maxentius was a Roman usurper who ruled from 306 to 312 CE. As a politician and leader in Ancient Rome, he is best known for his brief but impactful reign, during which he commissioned significant architectural projects like the Basilica of Maxentius and the Villa Maxentii. His rule ended with his defeat and death at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312 CE.

## Biography
- **Born**: January 1, 278 CE (exact place unknown)
- **Nationality**: Roman
- **Occupation**: Politician, Usurper
- **Known for**: Ruling as a Roman usurper (306–312 CE) and commissioning major architectural works
- **Field(s)**: Politics, Governance

## Contributions
Maxentius is credited with the construction of two notable structures in Rome:
- **Basilica of Maxentius** (completed in 312 CE): An ancient building in the Roman Forum, Rome, which remains one of the most significant architectural achievements of his reign.
- **Villa Maxentii**: A building in Rome, Italy, associated with his rule.

## FAQs
**Who was Maxentius?**
Maxentius was a Roman usurper who seized power in 306 CE and ruled until his defeat and death in 312 CE. He is remembered for his political ambitions and architectural projects in Rome.

**What did Maxentius build?**
Maxentius commissioned the Basilica of Maxentius, completed in 312 CE, and the Villa Maxentii, both of which are significant examples of Roman architecture from his era.

**When did Maxentius rule?**
Maxentius ruled as a usurper from 306 CE until his death on October 28, 312 CE, during the Battle of the Milvian Bridge.

**What was Maxentius's full name?**
His full name was Marcus Aurelius Valerius Maxentius.

## Why They Matter
Maxentius's reign, though short, left a lasting architectural legacy in Rome. The Basilica of Maxentius, in particular, stands as a testament to his ambition and influence, showcasing the grandeur of Roman engineering and design. His rule also marked a turbulent period in Roman history, influencing the political landscape of the time.

## Notable For
- Commissioning the Basilica of Maxentius (312 CE)
- Constructing the Villa Maxentii
- Ruling as a Roman usurper (306–312 CE)
- Defeat at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge (312 CE)

## Body
### Early Life and Background
Maxentius was born on January 1, 278 CE. He was a member of the Roman elite, with his full name being Marcus Aurelius Valerius Maxentius. His early life details are sparse, but his later actions indicate a strong political ambition.

### Rise to Power
In 306 CE, Maxentius seized power in Rome, declaring himself emperor. His rule was marked by efforts to consolidate his authority and legitimize his position, often through public works and architectural projects.

### Architectural Contributions
Maxentius is most notably associated with two major constructions:
- **Basilica of Maxentius**: Begun during his reign and completed in 312 CE, this structure in the Roman Forum is one of the largest and most impressive buildings from ancient Rome. It reflects the architectural innovation and grandeur of the period.
- **Villa Maxentii**: Another significant building project, this villa in Rome is linked to his rule and serves as an example of the opulence associated with his reign.

### Political and Military Career
Maxentius's rule was characterized by political maneuvering and military conflicts. His reign ended abruptly with his defeat at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge on October 28, 312 CE, where he was killed in battle against Constantine I.

### Legacy
Despite his short reign, Maxentius's impact on Rome is evident through his architectural projects. The Basilica of Maxentius, in particular, remains a significant historical and architectural landmark, illustrating the enduring influence of his rule. His life and reign are a notable chapter in the history of Ancient Rome, reflecting the complexities of power and governance during that era.

## References

1. Maxentius
2. Maximianus
3. Virtual International Authority File
4. Integrated Authority File
5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
6. CERL Thesaurus
7. Treccani's Enciclopedia on line
8. Enciclopedia Treccani
9. Dizionario di Storia