The Best Sites In Rome

Rome is one of the most ancient and iconic cities in the world. With more than two and a half thousand years of history, it’s no wonder that the city of Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Located in the country of Italy, Rome is a bustling metropolis filled with culture and life. With its ancient ruins, its vibrant nightlife, and its beautiful architecture, there is no shortage of things to do and see in Rome.

From its founding as a small city-state in 753 BC to its present day as the capital of Italy, Rome has been a major cultural, historical, and political center for centuries. From monumental works of art, to vast ruins, to picturesque churches, Rome is a city of iconic sites and attractions that have been visited by millions of people over the years. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, there’s something for everyone in Rome.

A Brief History of Rome

Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus on April 21st, 753 BC. The brothers were said to be the sons of Mars, the Roman god of war. The brothers were abandoned by their mother, Rhea Silvia, who was a Vestal Virgin and daughter of King Numitor. They were saved by a she-wolf who nursed them until they were found by a shepherd named Faustulus.

The city was originally called Roma Quadrata and was founded on seven hills. The seven hills were the Palatine Hill, the Capitoline Hill, the Aventine Hill, the Caelian Hill, the Esquiline Hill, the Quirinal Hill, and the Viminal Hill. These hills were connected by bridges and surrounded by walls. The Palatine Hill was home to the aristocrats and was the political center of Rome.

Over the centuries, Rome grew from a small city-state to an important center of power. In 509 BC, it became a republic, and in 44 BC it became an Empire ruled by Julius Caesar. After Caesar’s death, it was ruled by various emperors until its fall in 476 AD. In the Middle Ages, it was ruled by the Papacy and became a center of Christianity. In 1870, it became the capital of Italy and has since grown into a bustling metropolitan city full of culture and life.

Rome Today

Today, Rome is a bustling metropolis filled with art and culture. It is home to over 2.8 million people and is known as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The city is filled with ancient ruins, iconic monuments, picturesque churches, and world-renowned museums. It is also home to many popular restaurants, bars, and nightclubs that attract tourists from all over the world.

There are many popular attractions in Rome, from the Colosseum to St. Peter’s Basilica to the Pantheon. Rome also has many parks and gardens such as Villa Borghese and Villa Doria Pamphili which are perfect for relaxing or enjoying a picnic. Rome is also home to many cultural events such as concerts and festivals that attract visitors from all over the world.

In addition to its many attractions, Rome is also known for its delicious food. From traditional Italian dishes to unique Roman specialties, there is something for everyone in Rome’s many restaurants and cafes.

The Best Sites In Rome

Rome is filled with many iconic sites and attractions that have been visited by millions of people over the years. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, there’s something for everyone in Rome. Here are some of the best sites to visit while you’re in Rome:

The Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of the most iconic sites in Rome and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Europe. Built between 70-80 AD, it was used for gladiator fights, animal hunts, executions, theatrical performances, and other public spectacles. Today it is an impressive ruin that serves as a reminder of Rome’s long history.

St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of Rome’s most famous churches and one of the holiest sites in Christianity. It is located in Vatican City and was built between 1506-1626. It is home to Michelangelo’s Pietà sculpture and other works of art by Renaissance artists such as Bernini and da Vinci.

The Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman temples in the world. Built in 27 BC by Marcus Agrippa, it was originally a temple dedicated to all gods but was later converted into a church in 609 AD. It is most famous for its huge dome and its oculus which lets light into the building.

The Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was once the political center of Ancient Rome and is now an archaeological site containing ruins from various Roman buildings such as temples, basilicas, arches, and more. It was once the commercial hub of Rome, but today it serves as an important reminder of Ancient Rome’s former glory.

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic fountains in Rome and one of the most famous monuments in Italy. Built in 1762 by Nicola Salvi, it is located at the end of an aqueduct that was built in 19 BC by Augustus Caesar. The fountain is famous for its beautiful sculptures and for its tradition of throwing coins into it for good luck.

Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese is a beautiful park located near the center of Rome. It was once owned by Cardinal Scipione Borghese and contains many sculptures, fountains, lakes, and gardens that attract visitors from all over the world. It is also home to several museums such as Galleria Borghese which houses works by artists such as Bernini and Caravaggio.

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most famous squares located near the Pantheon. It was built in 1589 by Pope Sixtus V on top of the ruins of the Stadium of Domitian which was used for chariot racing in Ancient Rome. Today it is home to many restaurants and cafes as well as Bernini’s Fountain of Four Rivers sculpture which dominates the square.

Popular Tours In Rome

In addition to its many attractions, Rome also offers many interesting tours for visitors to explore the city’s history and culture more deeply. Here are two popular tours that are definitely worth taking while you’re in Rome:

Rome Food Tour

One popular tour in Rome is the Rome Food Tour which takes visitors on an exploration of some of the city’s best local eateries. This tour takes visitors through some of Rome’s oldest neighborhoods where they can sample traditional Roman dishes at some of the city’s most renowned restaurants. From freshly made pasta to delicious gelato, this tour gives visitors an opportunity to explore Roman cuisine like never before! Book a tour here.

Rome Catacombs Tour

Another popular tour in Rome is the Catacombs Tour which takes visitors through some of the city’s underground crypts where they can explore more than 20 kilometers of ancient passageways filled with secrets from centuries past! This tour gives visitors an opportunity to explore these ancient tunnels which are filled with tombs that date back as far as 2nd century AD! Book this tour here.

Conclusion

Rome is one of Europe’s most iconic cities filled with culture and life. From its ancient ruins to its vibrant nightlife to its picturesque churches, there is no shortage of things to do and see in Rome! Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a few weeks there are so many sites to explore that will give you an understanding of why this city has been so influential throughout history! And with so many different tours available, there’s something for everyone in Rome!