Who hasn’t heard of Rome? We’re talking about one of the most famous cities in the world, capital of the former Roman Empire and the very heart of Christian Catholicism. When one says art, culture and history, Rome is definitely one city that springs to mind. Half of Europe’s population speak languages of Latin origin which inevitably links them to Rome. All in all, there is no real way to see this city through someone else’s eyes, here are just a few guidelines, but I’d recommend that you go out there and experience it for yourself.
The very foundation of the city has become a popular legend that has gone through millenia of telling and re-telling. Tradition has it that the city was built on Seven Hills by Romulus, brother of Remus. These twins were the sons of Mars and the priestess Rhea Silva, but they were nursed by a she-wolf in the wild. Romulus, who gave the very name of the city, is the first Roman emperor, according to popular folk stories. However, historic data shows that the city evolved from shepherd settlements in the Lazio province.
A main focal point of any Europe travel tour, Rome had the privilege of escaping World War II unscathed. Consequently all the main sights that date back to the Roman Antiquity, the Renaissance and the Baroque period are wonderfully preserved, charming tourists with their authentic atmosphere. Though considered a separate entity from Rome, Vatican lies within the confines of the city, all you have to do is go beyond its walls, and visit the heart of Papacy.
The city centre offers the oldest sites open to visitation, the ancient Roman Walls, a series of fortifications that used to make the Old City impenetrable. The iconic symbol of Imperial Rome, the Colosseum will charm and challenge any visitor. Built in the 1st century AD, it used to be the largest amphitheatre in the Roman Empire, with a housing capacity of up to 50,000 spectators. This was the entertainment centre of antiquity, mainly used for gladiator fights.
Also part of the old city of Rome was the ancient Pantheon, devoted to the seven deities that protected the city, corresponding to seven planets. This is the best preserved of all the antiquities you will see in Rome. However, it is worth mentioning that it has been used continuously as a Christian church since the 7th century. It had an important role in almost any of all the historic ages, including the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and modern times. The Parthenon is both a church and an eternal resting place for famous people such as Raphael, or king Umberto I.
A famous attraction of present day Rome is Trajan’s Market with the bas relief Column erected by architect Appolodor of Damascus to commemorate Trajan’s victory in the Dacian Wars. If you’re a relic hunter, and want to get an idea about the level of civilization in ancient Rome, one great touristic spot is the Baths of Caracalla. Make sure you don’t miss these famous thermae that date back to the beginning of the 3rd century AD.
Now, moving on to other sites, Rome stands out as a great example of the most exquisite Renaissance art work. For instance, Plaza del Campidoglio, is the homage to the memory of Michelangelo Buonarroti, who designed all the surrounding palaces and the very central square. Little of the initial plan was completed during Michelangelo’s life, but work definitely followed his specifications, bearing his touch of masterpiece. Walking around Rome will definitely convince you that there are simply too many piazzas and magnificent edifices where the aristocracy used to live.
In terms of Museums, there are plenty of enriching experiences for the curious visitor. There are the Museum of the Roman Civilization, the Capitoline Museum or the National Gallery of Modern Art, but for a truly complete image, you really have to see the National Museum of Rome. Here is a complete range of collections from Numismatics, to antiquities and frescoes. I think it wouldn’t be wrong to say that Rome is a living museum in itself.
One can’t simply ignore the gorgeous villas in the green areas that surround the Old City, they are the living proof of the city’s fortunate and rich past, given the fact that this was the seat of aristocracy. Part of these great villas belonged to the Vatican before there was a split from the Italian capital. Besides squares, statues, antiquities and museums, Rome is also the city of the Catholic churches, after all this is the place where the Apostle Peter and Paul came to preach. The grandeur of the Lateran Palace and the St. Peter Basilica are simply indescribable. Words fail to render the true picture of this unique place on earth!