Birth of Rome commemoration parade - in pictures

Men belonging to historical groups march in front of the Colosseum dressed as ancient Romans during a parade to mark the anniversary of the foundation of the eternal city in 753BC Photograph: Filippo Monteforte/AFP/Getty Images

Costumed actors dressed as Roman soldiers march in a commemorative parade during the festivities Photograph: Giorgio Cosulich/Getty Images

Costumed groups of people parade around the Colosseum, Circus Maximus and Forum Photograph: Alessandra Benedetti//Corbis

Actors dressed in Roman garb Photograph: Giorgio Cosulich/Getty Images

For one day, the streets of the city are filled with costumes as scenes from legend and history are re-enacted Photograph: Giorgio Cosulich/Getty Images

A woman is carried by men dressed as slaves Photograph: Alessandra Benedetti//Corbis

A group of men dressed as ancient Roman senators Photograph: Giorgio Cosulich/Getty Images

A group of women dance in front of the Colosseum Photograph: Alessandra Benedetti//Corbis

A group of men dressed as soldiers Photograph: Filippo Monteforte/AFP/Getty Images

Romans walk around the side of the Colosseum Photograph: Alessandra Benedetti//Corbis

A wide variety of costumes and outfits are on display at the annual event Photograph: Alessandra Benedetti//Corbis

Men dressed as soldiers during the parade Photograph: Alessandra Benedetti//Corbis

An array of helmets on the ground during the Birth of Rome festivities Photograph: Alessandra Benedetti/?Corbis