Rome
Recommended Tours
The Ancient SitesHeading the list of Rome's ancient monuments is of course the Colosseum. Built between 70 and 80 AD, it was the symbol of the Imperial Capitol and draws visitors from all over the world. Even if the lines are long, a tour of this archeological wonder is well worth it. If you get a chance to see it, the Colosseum and Constantine's Arch are lit magnificently at night. The Palatine is the oldest part of the city and home to the many of the ancient sites. To the North of the Palatine hill are the vast remains of the Roman Forum, once the social, political, and economic center of the city. Circo Massimo (Circus Maximus) is located on the other side; the ancient 250,000 seat stadium that was once host to horse & chariot races, athletic tournaments, and animal fights. Referred to as “the world's oldest shopping mall,” Market's of Trajan where once a bustling center of commerce. Built in the 2nd century A.D., this massive complex was home to more than 150 offices and shops. Much remains of the markets, and the ancient vaulted hallways and brickwork are a remarkable sight. The Pantheon, with its rotund interior and open ceiling, was constructed circa 125 AD and is still used as a Christian Church. Colonna Traiana (Trajan's Column) can be easily missed, but stop to take a look at the intricately carved scenes that wind up the pillar; they tell an incredible tale of battles and empire that has been studied by art history scholars for centuries. The restored Teatro di Marcello at one time had space for 20,000 people, and today a variety of concerts are organized here (the only way to get a peek inside is to attend). After an ambitious 15 year restoration project that began in the 1980's, Domus Aurea is open to the public. Built by the infamous emperor Nero and often referred to as the “Golden House”, the palace features wonderfully restored frescos and offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Roman elite. Located just outside the center in the lively Trastevere neighborhood, the sprawling Baths of Caracalla take up 33 acres (13 hecatares). Many of the works that were uncovered during the original excavation can now be seen in the Palazzo Farnese and Vatican Museums. During the month of August, the ruins set the scene for a series of opera performances. The Appia Antica was the most important of the roads leading to Rome, as it was a vital trade route connecting Rome with Southern Italy. A guided tour on the Archeobus is a great way to see the sites of this famous road.
Piazzas, Churches & Fountains
Located at the base of the Capitoline Hill is Piazza Venezia. Once the residence of Venetian Cardinal Pietro Barbi during the mid 1400's, the Palazzo Venezia museum holds one of the most important collections of Medieval and Renaissance art. Across the piazza is the Palatial Vittore Emmanuel II Monument, dedicated the fist king of unified Italy. Designed in 1895 shortly after Italy's unification, it was completed in 1925 and is home to Italy's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Eternal Flame. Saint Peter's Square or Piazza San Pietro is one of the most visited places on Earth. People come from all over the world to see Saint Peter's Basilica and receive the Pope's blessing, traditionally given Sundays at noon. Although the line for the Vatican and its museums can be daunting, a chance to visit the World's smallest state and the treasures housed by its museums is a must. Leave plenty of time to tour the Musei Vaticani (Vatican Museums), which house numerous masterpieces, including Michaelangelo's Sistine Chapel and Rapahel's School of Athens. Just east of the Vatican on the Tiber is Castel Sant'Angelo. Originally constructed as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian in 139 AD, the fortress was used as a castle during the 10th century and eventually as a papal residence. The last act of Pucini's masterwork “Tosca” took place here, and today the building has been turned into a museum. The Ponte Sant'Angelo stretches over the Tiber and was also constructed by Hadrian, intended to link the tomb with the center of Rome. Further down the river, Isola Tiberana features an interesting mishmash of historical architecture. The site of an ancient Greek temple dedicated to the god of medicine, the island is still considered a place of healing as it is home to a modern hospital.
Another one of Rome's famous landmarks is the Trevi Fountain, immortalized in Fellini's film La Dolce Vita. Although you are not allowed to wade through the fountain as Sylvia did, legend has it that throwing a coin in ensures a return trip to Rome. Nearby is the large, oval shaped Piazza Navona which was once a Roman circus (hence its shape) but designated as a square in the 15th century. Bernini's famous Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi is located here, along with Fontana del Nettuno. Piazza Campo de'Fiori is also close by. By day the square hosts one of the most famous street markets in Italy, and is a popular meeting place for tourists as well as local youth during evening hours. The Spanish Steps or Scalinata Trinità dei Monti are another of Italy's most famous meeting places. They ascend steeply to Trinità dei Monti, a 16th century church, and at their base is Piazza Spagna. Made famous in the film Roman Holiday, La Bocca della Verità (The Mouth of Truth) is located in a portico of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. Legend has it that it will bite of the hand of anyone who places their hand inside and tells a lie.
Not for the faint of heart, the Capuchin Crypt is located beneath Santa Maria della Concezione church, just off Piazza Barberini. The bones of over 4,000 Capuchin monks are on display here in six different rooms. Bones are nailed to the walls in intricate patterns, other made into light fixtures, or just stacked in massive piles. A truly eerie experience. Above, Piazza Barberini shares a morbid past–until the 18th century unidentifiable corpses were displayed here. Today, visitors come to see the Bernini's beautiful Baroque Fontana del Tritone e Fontana delle Api.
Museums & Galleries
Rome was not built in a day. In fact, it has been evolving for well over 2,000 years, and so it is not surprising that it is filled with museums and galleries that reflect and display its long and varied history. From Etruscan to modern, the eternal city holds it all.
For a look into Italy's pre-Roman history, Museo Nazionale della Villa Giulia is home to a gallery of fascinating Etruscan finds. The Capitoline Museums contain an immense collection art and artifacts from ancient Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance times. Museo Nazionale Romano houses one of the most important archaeological collections in the world. Split into five sites located throughout the city, antiquities dating from the 5th century BC to the 3rd Century AD are on display. Everyday objects from the 6th century BC to the time of the Barbarian invasions are on display at the Antiquarium Comunale museum. For a more encompassing look at ancient Rome, visit Museo della Civilità which features to scale models of Roman monuments and the city throughout its long history.
Situated just outside the center in the suburb of Eur, Museo Alto Medio is worth visiting if you have the time. It is home to many valuable pieces and artifacts, covering the period of time between the fall of the Roman Empire and the dawn of the Renaissance. The Palazzo Venezia museum houses an important collection of Medieval and Renaissance art, situated in a magnificent palace. Although not very large, Villa Farnesia has a collection of Renaissance pieces, the most famous of which are by Raphael. For a look at the life of Napoleon, Museo Napoleonico has a collection of portraits and personal affects. Located inside Porta San Sebastiano, Museo Comunale delle Mura gives an interesting perspective on Rome's history with displays about the city walls and how they have changed over time. Housed in the palace of one of Bernini's greatest patrons, the Borghese Gallery is home some of the sculptor's greatest works, as well as paintings and pieces by other great artists. As the gallery can only accommodate 300 visitors at a time, it is advisable to make bookings for this world renowned museum in advance.Museo d'Arte Ebraica (Museum of Jewish Art)has a stunning collection of objects including Torahs, crowns, and silverware; as well as exhibits regarding the long history of Jews in and outside of Italy. The ticket price also includes entrance to the nearby synagogue on the Tiber, built in 1870.
If you have had your fill of ancient art, Rome has much to offer in the way of arte moderna. Galleria Nazionale dell'Arte Moderna showcases works from the 19th and 20th centuries, featuring peices by Cezanne, Pirandello and more. There is always something new at Palazzo delle Esposizione which hosts temporary painting and sculpture exhibitions. For something a little different, check out Museo della Pasta, for a look at Italy's most famous food. Chiostro del Bramante mixes old and new, hosting a variety of events and shows from ancient to avant gard.
Park's & Gardens
The sprawling Villa Borghese gardens are home to a number of galleries and museums. Designed in an English style, a picnic or stroll through the idyllically landscaped grounds makes for a lovely Roman afternoon. For an incredible view of Piazza del Popolo, visit the gardens of Pincio. This romantic locale has been home to gardens since ancient times, although they didn't take their present form until the 19th century when they were redesigned by Valadier (also the architect of Piazza del Popolo). Villa Doria Pamphili is Rome's largest park, encompassing nearly two square kilometers. Located at the commencement of the ancient Via Aurelia, the park was laid out during the mid 17th century.
Formerly Rome Zoo, Bioparco zoological gardens are dedicated to conservation and education, featuring 198 animal species in open habitats. There are over 7,000 flowers at Orto Botanico (Botanic Gardens), featuring exotic species from around the globe. The highlight of is surely the colorful collection of orchids, at one time a part of Palazzo Corsini.
Outside the city, the seaside town of Ostia Lido has provided reprieve from city life for Romans since ancient times. In addition to being a beach town full of shops and restaurants, the area is rich with ancient history, as Ostia was Imperial Rome's port. The remains of the harbor can be see at Ostia Antica.
Guided Tours
Trying to see all the sights in Rome can be overwhelming. Whether by foot, boat, bus, an organized tour can be a great way to visit and learn about the city.
Among the many walking tours are “Ancient and Old Rome Walking Tour, “Highlights of Rome Walking Tour,” Illuminated Rome Night Tour, and Medieval Rome Tour with Private Art Historian. All focus on different aspects of Roman history and culture, pick the one that's right for you. A cruise down the Tiber gives visitors an interesting perspective on the city, and can be a relief for your feet if you are tired of trekking through the streets. Morning, afternoon, and dinner sightseeing cruises are offered. If you are interested in Ancient Rome, take a tour of Hadrian's Villa, located about 45 minutes East of the city. The Archeobus is a good option for history buffs looking to stay stay closer, and a great, economical way to see the sites. If you would rather go at your own pace, you can also rent a self-guided MP3 audio tour.
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