The Tarpeian Rock was the infamous execution place for traitors (and criminals). They would be led to its top and then hurled down. The cliff takes its name from the tale of the Vestal Virgin Tarpeia, who betrayed the Romans by letting the Sabines in through the gates after being promised to receive what they 'bore on their arms'. Naturally she hoped for their golden bracelets, instead she was crushed to death between their shields. Her body was buried atop the cliff, giving it its name.
