Hadrian

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Hadrian (/ˈheɪdriən/; Latin: Publius Aelius Hadrianus Augustus) ruled Rome from 117 to 138 with distinction. His legacy includes the construction of Hadrian's Wall, which clearly defined the northern limit of Britannia. He also spearheaded a massive renovation project for the Pantheon and commissioned the Temple of Venus and Roma. As an ardent admirer of Greek culture, he earned the reputation as a humanist among some historians, and is remembered as one of the Five Good Emperors. Born Publius Aelius Hadrianus into a Hispano-Roman family, his exact birthplace remains unclear despite claims that Italica near Santiponce (in modern-day Spain) was where he drew his first breath. However, it's widely accepted that he came from a family with deep roots in Hispania, dating back centuries. His predecessor, Trajan, was a maternal cousin of Hadrian's father, and although Trajan didn't formally name an heir, according to Trajan's wife Pompeia Plotina, he had actually chosen Hadrian as his successor just before his death. Trajan's wife and close friend Licinius Sura were both strong supporters of Hadrian, and it's possible that their influence helped secure his position on the throne.