Why did the inhabitants of Italy and the provinces strive to visit Rome?

First, Rome stood out against the background of other cities for its size, architecture, culture and general rhythm of life. There was the Colosseum, public toilets, running water, palaces, neighborhoods of rich stone houses. Secondly, it was easy to get to Rome. As they said then, “All roads lead to Rome.” There were stone-paved roads from all over Italy to Rome and ships along the Tiber River.