The Amazing History of Rome: A Comprehensive Guide in 2021

Rome – the heart of Italy; the Eternal City; the birthplace of the Roman Empire. Known for its ancient monuments, Renaissance art, and exquisite cuisine, Rome stands out as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Home to the Vatican, Rome is a treasure trove of history and culture, making it a popular tourist destination.

If you are planning a trip to Rome, you may be wondering what the history of this majestic city is and the best way to explore its many sights and landmarks. In this article, we cover the rich and amazing history of Rome, provide an overview of some of its can’t-miss attractions and offer ideas for a fun and memorable visit.

The Legendary Foundations of Rome

Rome was founded in 753 B.C., when Romulus and Remus, brothers who were abandoned in a basket and left to float down the Tiber River, washed ashore at the site of modern-day Rome. According to legend, they were discovered by a she-wolf who nursed them and nurtured them until they were found by a shepherd. With this story in mind, it’s no surprise that Romans still revere the gifted wolf as their protector and national symbol.

Romulus and Remus eventually settled at the Palatine Hill and founded the city of Rome together. Although annoyed by Remus’s constant jokes about his name, Romulus tiredly accepted his place as Rome’s first ruler. For more than a millennium, Rome has been seen as a destination – from ancient empires to modern tourists. Across nearly three thousand years, many different populations have come to call Rome home.

The Rise of the Roman Empire

When the city was founded, it was divided into three separate tribes that clashed with one another over resources. To unify the city and to prevent further clashes, Romulus formed a Senate made up of 100 members – the patres conscripti or “forefathers”. The Senate soon became responsible for regulating Rome’s affairs and overseeing its military campaigns.

In 509 B.C., began Rome’s transformation into a republic. Under the leadership of Lucius Junius Brutus – one of Rome’s most esteemed historical figures – the Roman Republic was created and a lasting government was established.

After centuries of extensive foreign expansion, military conquests, and economic growth, Rome developed into an immense political power that spanned across Europe and the Mediterranean basin. By111 B.C., the Roman Republic had become an expansive empire – unifying territories from England in the west to Syria in the east and from Spain in the south to Germany in the north.

Deeply rooted in law and order, Rome developed a unique social structure that privileged free citizens and supervised non-citizens with complex regulations regarding wealth and status. During this time, Roman citizens enjoyed rights not seen in other civilizations and developed a sense of individualism not present elsewhere until much later. As a result of their legal sophistication and forward thinking, Rome became advanced even by today’s standards.

Life in Ancient Rome

Life in ancient Rome revolved around religion and entertainment. Like other ancient cultures, prayer rituals were an integral part of daily life, although they varied greatly between rural and urban populations. Religion in ancient Rome spanned both polytheistic and monotheistic beliefs with numerous gods being celebrated as divine patrons of different cities and regions.

Culinary delights were at their height during this period with countless recipes being discovered from archaeological sites all over central Italy. Wine was especially popular; Fattoria Melini Chianti Rufina wine is still produced from vines growing around pre-Roman villas near Rome today!

In addition to religious and culinary pursuits, entertainment was a beloved pastime popular among all Roman citizens. People took part in theater performances, races at chariot stadiums, circuses with exotic animals, athletic competitions like wrestling, boxing and javelin throwing, gladiator fights and more. People flocked to amphitheaters for animal fights, theatrical dramas and other spectacles – all often free of charge!
Rome was known for its opulence; it was home to some of the most lavish festivities in all of antiquity. Roman citizens often reveled in extravagantly-funded events such as extravagant feasts and lavish parades featuring exotic animals from all corners of empire.

The Colosseum: An Icon of Ancient Rome

No visit to Rome would be complete without a visit to one of its most iconic landmarks: The Colosseum. As the biggest amphitheater in the world, it hosted events including gladiator battles, mock sea battles and animal hunts viewed by up to 80,000 Roman citizens at a time. The Colosseum was built almost 2000 years ago by emperor Vespasian between 70-80 A.D., taking ten years to build! After standing up against numerous wars, fires and earthquakes since then, it remains one of Rome’s greatest attractions and one of Italy’s top tourist sites. Marvel at its huge scale, check out some of its amazing architecture such as its 80 entrances along with a few original frescoes still adorning its walls!

Other Fascinating Sites

Other than The Colosseum, there are plenty of fascinating sites for tourists to explore in Rome such as Vatican City, Piazza Navona, Palatine Hill and Pantheon just to name a few! Here are some highlights for each attraction:

• Vatican City: Home to the Pope since 1377, Vatican City is an independent city-state covering just 0.44 km² – the smallest country in the world! Featuring St Peter’s Square, St Peter’s Basilica and The Vatican Museums – Vatican City offers plenty to explore.
• Piazza Navona: An iconic square located in central Rome with Baroque architecture peppered throughout along with many statues such as The Four Rivers by Bernini and The Fountain of Neptune by Giacomo della Porta.
• Palatine Hill: One of the seven hills of Rome located in The Roman Forum that is believed to be the site where Romulus decided to build his city.
• Pantheon: Built between 120–144 A.D., The Pantheon is one of Rome’s best-preserved ancient structures featuring an interior dome measuring 43 meters high decorated with religious symbols.

Romantic Things to Do in Rome

There is plenty of romantic activities for couples in Rome! From leisurely strolls through cozy Italian piazzas to gliding down the Grand Canal on a gondola ride, there is something for every type of couple looking for the perfect getaway. Here are some romantic activities for two that you should try while visiting Rome:

• Experience a romantic gondola ride at night around the historic canals near St Mark’s Square. Take in romantic gothic churches lit up after dark while sipping on champagne during your tour! A great way to bring romance into your night.
• Enjoy candlelit dinner set in a top Italian restaurant accompanied by Italian music. Take along your loved one for an unforgettable dinner combined with a live music performance.
• Experience a romantic moonlight stroll around ancient monuments.Take your partner along for a walk among some of Rome’s most spectacular monuments under moonlight.
• For coups looking for thrill – why not try Rome Secret Food Tour?. Enjoy tasty local beer & wine while exploring Trastevere’s traditional eateries – perfect for date night!

Indeed, Rome has served as an epicenter of culture for thousands of years! Whether you are looking for fast-paced historical sightseeing or a more relaxed culinary exploration opportunity – it has something for everyone! Take your time exploring its vast history, spectacular sights, archaeological marvels and plentiful attractions – there is plenty to see and do – we guarantee you will not be disappointed! Finally, if you are looking for some romantic activities during your visit – why not book Rome Secret Food Tour, enjoy delicious food while taking in views over Trastevere’s old town or alternatively strolling around ancient monuments illuminated by moonlight!