When we consider the poet's veneration for Rome, we may easily anticipate that he would give the preference to that city.

That he might not, however, offend his friend Roberto Bardi and the University of Paris, he despatched a messenger to Cardinal Colonna, asking his advice upon the subject, pretty well knowing that his patron's opinion would coincide with his own wishes.

The Colonna advised him to be crowned at Rome.
The custom of conferring this honour had, for a long time, been obsolete.

In the earliest classical ages, garlands were given as a reward to valour and genius.

Virgil exhibits his conquerors adorned with them.