ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Praefectus urbi

Alright, let's talk about praefectus urbi! The praefectus urbi was a person who helped to govern a special city called Rome a long, long time ago.

You know how sometimes a big city has a mayor? Well, think of the praefectus urbi as kind of like a super special mayor of Rome. But instead of being elected by the people like a mayor, the praefectus urbi was chosen by the emperor, who was like the king of Rome.

The praefectus urbi had a really important job. They helped to keep the people of Rome safe and maintain order in the city. They were in charge of the city's police force and made sure that everyone followed the laws. If someone did something bad, the praefectus urbi would help figure out what happened and decide what punishment they deserved.

But the praefectus urbi did even more than that! They also made sure that the city was clean and organized. They helped to build and repair important buildings like temples, roads, and bridges. They made sure that the markets were working well, so people could buy and sell things. They even helped to plan and organize big events and celebrations in the city.

The person who became praefectus urbi had to be really smart and responsible. They had to be someone the emperor could trust to make good decisions and take care of the city. They had to be able to work with lots of different people and solve problems.

Sometimes, the praefectus urbi even became really famous and important in Rome. People respected them and looked up to them because they helped make Rome a great place to live. They were like a superhero for the city!

So, the praefectus urbi was a special person chosen by the emperor to help govern and take care of the city of Rome. They made sure everyone followed the laws, kept the city clean and organized, and helped make Rome a safe and great place to live.