The empire known for its rigorous legal codes and significant architecture was the Roman Empire. Established in 27 BCE, Rome expanded to encompass a vast territory across Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East. The Romans developed a complex legal system that included principles such as the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial, which laid the groundwork for modern legal systems. Architecturally, the empire is renowned for its monumental structures, including the Colosseum, aqueducts, and roads that facilitated trade and communication. The Romans' engineering feats and legal advancements significantly influenced Western civilization.