The fascio littorio, originated in the Italian Etruscan period, was passed down to ancient Rome and symbolized the Roman magistrate’s power. The revival of such symbol can point to Fascist Italy’s obsession with and glorification of the heydays of the Roman civilization. Indeed, in the Doctrine of Fascism, Mussolini states that in Facism, “the Roman tradition is embodied in the concept of strength.” It can be inferred that Mussolini sees the Fascist State as almost an extension of the Roman magistrate, and his desire to conquer and control is largely influenced by a desire to bring Italy back to its past glory. The revival of Roman traditions is also evident in other aspects of Italy at this time; for example, Neoclassical architecture, which