The Great Fire of Rome was an urban fire started between 18-19 July; 64 CE; during the reign of Emperor Nero. It caused widespread destruction throughout the city; burning for over six days. Many accounts claim that Nero was responsible for initiating the fire; to create space to build his new palatial complex; the Domus Aurea.

In response to the accusations; Nero blamed the fire on Rome's Christian community; resulting in the first organised persecution against Christianity in the empire.