Imagine that one of your ancestors arrived in Rome a thousand years ago, or more. Travelling to the powerful state was something that many dreamt of; a chance to earn a fortune, or at least a steady living.
Rome relied on the river Tevere, or Tiber, for its port, which in those days was next to the city. Foreigners came, often by ship, with skills or a willingness to learn. The original city, on the eastern side of the river, became crowded and many newcomers settled instead on the western bank.