Rewrite this historical excerpt in the form of a dramatic monologue, as if a scholar of ancient civilizations is passionately explaining the rise of Rome to an audience.

Ancient Rome, the state centered on the city of Rome. This civilization was responsible for an empire that stretched across the Mediterranean Sea. From the founding of the city in 753 BC by Romulus, it became a republic, and then an empire. During its twelve-century existence, the Roman civilization shifted from a monarchy to a democratic republic to a military dictatorship. The Roman Empire was one of the most powerful economic, cultural, political and military forces in the world of its time.
Ladies and Gentlemen, allow me to transport you back to Ancient Rome, a majestic state rooted in the heart of the city of Rome. Picture it, a civilization that held the reins of an empire, an empire that spanned the vast expanse of the Mediterranean Sea. The city of Rome, founded by the legendary Romulus in 753 BC, evolved from a republic to an empire in its time. Over twelve centuries of existence, the Roman civilization transitioned from a simple monarchy to a democratic republic, only to end as a military dictatorship. The Roman Empire, my friends, was a force to reckon with! It was among the most dominant powers of its era, economically, culturally, politically, and militarily. This is Rome, a testament to the indomitable spirit of mankind!