Rome’s history spans over two and a half thousand years and as history displays, it is one of the founding cities of Western Civilization.
The capital city of Italy was once the centre of the Roman Empire and dominated Europe, North Africa and the Middle East for more than four hundred years. As well as fulfilling the spot as Italy’s capital, Rome is the country’s largest and most populous city with upwards of 2 million residents.
One of the main appeals of Rome is the architecture, from arches and columns to temples, theatres, baths and basilicas, the city really has it all. As one of the few major European cities that escaped World War II fairly untouched, central Rome preserves its Renaissance and Baroque roots. In fact, the historic centre of Rome is so architecturally significant it has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Rome has a significant place in the origination of Christianity, is home of the Roman Catholic Church and of course, the site of the Vatican City. Regardless of whether you practice Christianity or not, a trip to see the Pope is an interesting experience. You might not be able to get up close and personal but if you arrive at St. Peter’s Square on a Wednesday morning then you can join an audience with the Pope and listen to his sermon.
If you make it along to St. Peter’s Square then you’re in the perfect spot to amble through St. Peter’s Basilica, admire Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, and visit the famous Belvedere Apollo and Laocoon at the Museo Pio-Clementino among the Vatican Museums.
The Colosseum is another monument that merits a visit and a definite must-see for fans of history. It really has to be seen to be believed and the size of this Flavian amphitheatre which dates from AD 72 is impossible to imagine until you see for yourself. If the sheer size of the Colosseum has left you feeling dizzy then head for a seat and authentic Italian treat of coffee and sweets. Italians are huge fans of all things sweet, so you won’t be spoilt for choices whatever you opt for.
Once you’ve enjoyed a relaxing break then a visit to the Vittoriano offers another view of historic Rome; the monument being constructed in honor of the first King of Italy, Vittorio Emmanuele II.
Of course, there are plenty of other piazzas to visit, Operas to attend, and antiques markets to trawl through. And if it all gets too much, then the gardens of the Villa Borghese make a serene hideaway from busy city life. In addition, there are many centrally located hotels in Rome which ensure you are never too far from the heart of all the action.
Tags: central rome, flavian amphitheatre, four hundred years, museo pio clementino, roman catholic church, vatican museums, world heritage site