What is the difference between Athens and Rome?

The Greeks were the model for the Western world but Rome was able to create the greatest empire because mainly because of geography and climate. Rome is naturally defensible. It's located in the middle of the peninsula (that becomes Italy) on top of 7 hills. To the northwest, at some distance, are the Apennines Mountains and located about 12 miles from the sea on the Tiber River. The climate is warm and so crops such as wheat, olive trees and grapes are able to be grown. (Wheat, olives and grapes are part of the Mediterranean diet, which is one of the healthiest diets).

Most civilizations start near river valleys. So, as you can see, geography and climate play a really important role in the growth of a civilization.