Rhea Sylvia (Romulus and Remus), c. 1530, Heinrich Aldegrever, German, 1502-after 1555/61, 5 13/16 x 3 7/8 in. (14.76 x 9.84 cm) (image), Engraving, Germany, 16th century, In Roman mythology Rhea Sylvia was the mother of Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome. She had been one of the Vestal Virgins, who were required to preserve their chastity. When she became pregnant (she said by the god Mars), her evil brother Amulius had her buried alive, the punishment given to Vestals who violated their obligation. Her twin boys were cast into the river Tiber but were rescued and raised by a shepherd, and grew up to found their own great city.