The role of the Ancient Roman Senate in shaping the governance structure of Rome was pivotal. As a political institution, the Senate served as an advisory body to the consuls, influencing legislation and policy. It comprised Rome's elite, including former magistrates and patricians, which allowed it to steer decisions through collective wisdom and experience. Over time, the Senate gained significant power, impacting various aspects of Roman life, governance, and the expansion of the empire, even amid the transition to imperial rule.