Rome is the jewel of Italy, the second most visited city in Europe after Paris. Its rich history, fantastic architecture, and delicious food attract millions of tourists annually. In the "Eternal City", you can admire world-famous sights like the Colosseum, St. Peter's Basilica or the Trevi Fountain. And in its heart, one finds the Vatican City, the centre of the Catholic Church.
Some people come here because of religion; others visit here because of the architecture or culinary delights. Whatever your motivation, we guarantee you will not be disappointed.
Where is Rome?
Rome is located in Italy, being the centre of the Lazio region. You find it almost halfway between Naples and Florence on the western side of the 'boot'. It doesn't have a coast, but it is only 30 km from the sea along the Tevere - which you probably learned about in history textbooks under the name Tiber. Its core was built on the left side of the river, in the hilly area.
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- Distance from Venice: 550 km / 6 hours
- Distance from the Dolomites: 650 km / 7 hours
- Distance from Florence: 300 km / 3 hours
- Distance from Naples: 230 km / 2.5 hours
Map
Areas
It is divided into several areas, each with a unique character and attractions.
- Historic Center (Centro Storico): This is its heart, home to many landmarks and attractions, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon and St. Peter's Basilica.
- Trastevere: This neighbourhood is located on the west bank of the river Tevere and is known for its narrow streets, historic buildings and lively nightlife.
- Vatican City: The world's smallest independent state. It has many significant religious and cultural attractions, including St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel.
- Monti: This is a trendy neighbourhood near the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. It is known for its trendy bars and restaurants, as well as its vintage shops and boutiques.
- Testaccio: a neighbourhood south of the historic centre known for its food and wine world and street art.
- Parioli: is a residential area north of the historic centre known for its parks, fine restaurants and beautiful villas.
- San Lorenzo: a neighbourhood known for its youthful and trendy atmosphere, as well as its street art and nightlife.
#1 Historical centre
The Historical Centre, Centro Storico, is the city's heart. It is home to the most famous sights and attractions and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. It covers an area of approximately 10 square kilometres. The area is bordered by the Aurelian Walls, built in the 3rd century AD to protect the area from invasion. Within the walls, it's divided into several parts, including Trastevere, the Jewish Ghetto and the Monti district.
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Seven Hills of Rome
As a tourist, the seven hills of Rome offer a unique perspective on the city's history and architecture. Here is some information about each hill:
- Aventine: is known for its peaceful gardens and the famous keyhole at the Villa del Priorato di Malta entrance.
- Caelian: is home to several ancient ruins, including the Baths of Caracalla and the Circus Maximus, the empire's largest stadium.
- Capitol: is one of the oldest and most essential hills. It is home to many museums, including the Capitoline Museums, which house an impressive collection of ancient art and artefacts.
- Esquiline: is the largest of the seven hills. Here, you will find the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the largest churches.
- Palatine: the oldest of the seven hills, also houses the Palace of Augustus and the Domus Flavia. These buildings were the official residences of the emperors.
- Quirinal: is home to the Palazzo del Quirinale, the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic.
- Viminal: is the smallest of the seven hills. The largest bathhouse, Diocletianus Bath, is located here.
#2 Vatican City
The world's smallest independent country (only 450 inhabitants) and the seat of the Pope cannot be missed in our program. The core of the Roman Catholic Church was founded in 1929. The head of state is the Pope. Its area is only 0.44 km2. In everyday language, it is also referred to as Vatican City.
#3 Piazza San Pietro
St. Peter's Square was designed by the Italian architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century and is in front of St. Peter's Basilica, one of the most important Christian churches. It is also the site of many important papal events and ceremonies. It is one of the largest public spaces in the world, approximately 320 meters long and 240 meters wide, holding up to 400,000 people at a time. Its centrepiece is an ancient Egyptian obelisk brought here in the 1st century AD. It is 25 meters high and surrounded by fountains designed by Bernini.
#4 St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter's Basilica is the largest church in the world and one of the holiest places in Christianity. The church was designed by the greatest architects and artists of the Renaissance period, including Michelangelo, Bernini and Bramante. Works of art in the basilica include Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's Baldachin.
#5 Vatican Museum
The Vatican Museums are home to an incredible collection of art and artefacts worldwide. Here, you find ancient Roman and Greek sculptures, Renaissance paintings and Egyptian objects. The most famous work of art is the Sistine Chapel, located at the end of the museum.
The group of more than 20 museums is enormous, so many visitors choose a guided tour. Guided tours can provide valuable information, help you navigate the museum more efficiently, and save time. Buying your ticket online in advance is strongly recommended because the lines can be long due to the enormous crowd.
#6 Sistine Chapel
Cappella Sistina is famous for its impressive works of art, including Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes painted between 1508 and 1512. The ceiling depicts scenes from the Bible, including the Creation of Adam and the story of Noah's Ark. It was initially built at the end of the 15th century as the Pope's private chapel. It has since become a popular tourist attraction and is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of Renaissance art. The chapel is part of the Vatican Museums.
#7 Raffaello's Room
The Stanze di Raffaello is a series of four rooms that can be seen in the Vatican Palace. The rooms are named after the artist because he painted them between 1508 and 1524. Pope Julius II commissioned the rooms as a series of private apartments in the Vatican Palace. Designed to showcase Renaissance art and architecture, they are among the period's most important works of art.
Their ceilings are decorated with a series of frescoes, which are paintings made on wet plaster. The frescoes depict various scenes from history, mythology and religion and are known for their vivid colours and intricate details. The rooms are named after the main themes of the frescoes: Constantine's Room, Heliodorus' Room, Segnatura's Room and Fire's Room in the Borgo.
Things to do in Rome
Here are the best-preserved examples of ancient architecture. Most of the attractions offer an insight into the past of the region and the power and influence of the Roman Empire. You could even compile a list of 100 attractions. Due to lack of time, we have narrowed them to those most people visit. (We have not established an order of importance.)
#8 Colosseum
The Colosseum was built in the first century AD and is the largest amphitheatre ever built. It was used for gladiator fights, animal hunts and other public events. An impressive feat of engineering and architecture, it can accommodate up to 80,000 spectators. It is made of stone and concrete, while a complex system of tunnels and elevators can be found beneath the arena floor. It was originally called the Flavius Amphitheatre, named after the Flavius dynasty of emperors.
Buying tickets online in advance and paying for a guided tour. Combination tickets are also available to see other nearby attractions, such as the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
#9 Forum Romanum
It was the centre of political, social and economic activity in ancient Rome. It was the site of many important public buildings, churches and monuments and played a key role in the development of Western civilization.
Today it is an archaeological site where many buildings and monuments lie in ruins, but it still promises to be a great program. You can see such impressive structures as the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus and the Rostra. We can also buy tickets here online and take a guided tour.
#10 Palatine
The Palatine is one of the city's oldest parts and one of the seven hills. It is located in the centre next to the Circus Maximus. It was the site of some important buildings and palaces, including the palace of Emperor Augustus and the Domus Flavia, the emperor's official residence during the imperial period.
The Palatine is an open-air museum and popular tourist attraction today, where many ruins and ancient structures can still be seen. Visitors can explore the remains of the imperial palaces, including the Domus Augustana and the House of Livia, as well as the Farnese Gardens, which were built in the 16th century.
#11 Pantheon
The Pantheon is a sophisticated building that dates back to 27 BC. It was originally built as a temple of the gods but was later converted into a Christian place. The building is known for its impressive dome, which once was the largest in the world until the 15th century. The dome is made of concrete and is open at the top, allowing sunlight to filter through. Its interior is notable for its marble floors and columns, as well as its ornate altars and chapels.
The Pantheon is in the historic centre, next to famous sights such as the Trevi Fountain or the Spanish Steps. It is free to visit.
#12 Piazza Venezia
Piazza Venezia is a large square in the heart of the city. It takes its name from the Palazzo Venezia, a Renaissance palace that is now a museum. Here you find the Altare della Patria (a monument to the first king of Italy) and Trajan's Column. Trajan's Column is a monument depicting scenes from the Dacian Wars. By the way, the square is an important hub, so expect a large crowd.
#13 Villa Borghese
Galleria Borghese is a museum in the beautiful 17th-century Villa Borghese, located in a huge park. The museum houses an impressive collection of art and sculpture, including works by Bernini, Caravaggio and Raphael. You must buy a ticket to the Galleria Borghese in advance, as only a limited number of visitors can enter at a given time. You can buy tickets online or at the ticket office outside the museum.
The Park is one of the largest public parks. There are beautiful gardens, fountains and even a small lake where you can rent pedal boats.
#14 Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous landmarks that everyone admires. It was built in the 18th century and is one of the most famous baroque fountains in the world. Designed by the Italian architect Nicola Salvi, it depicts the sea god Oceanus surrounded by tritons and horses. Be sure to dress appropriately, as the well is considered to be a religious site. Don't wear shorts, and don't have your shoulders uncovered.
According to tradition, tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain ensures your return. Of course, it does matter how you do all this. You are guaranteed to return if you toss a coin over your shoulder with your right hand. If you flip two coins, you come back and fall in love with someone. Three coins mean you will return, fall in love, and marry.
#15 Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are located 10 minutes from the Trevi Fountain. It comprises 138 steps and is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists. The staircase is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, with elegant curves and unique design elements. It was built in the 18th century to connect the Trinità dei Monti church with the top of the hill. It was named after the nearby Spanish embassy, not because the Spanish built it.
At the top of the stairs is the Trinità dei Monti church, with a terrace offering a stunning area view. The church is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture, with impressive frescoes and works of art.
#16 Piazza di Spagna
At the base of the Spanish Steps is Piazza di Spagna, a lively square with a beautiful fountain and various shops and restaurants. It is known for its beautiful architecture, designer shops (Gucci, Valentino, Prada, etc.) and historical attractions. The square also houses the Keats-Shelley Memorial House, a museum dedicated to the romantic poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley.
In the middle of the square is the Fontana della Barcaccia, a beautiful baroque fountain designed by the famous Italian sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The fountain is shaped like a boat and is said to have been inspired by the flooding of the Tiber River that flooded the square in the early 17th century.
#17 Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is just a short walk from the Pantheon and Campo de' Fiori. The square is famous for its impressive Baroque architecture, including the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and the Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone by Francesco Borromini. The square is also home to many other fountains and statues. You are in the right place if you want to sit in a nice cafe or restaurant.
Piazza Navona's rich history dates back to ancient times when it was the site of the Domitian Stadium, where chariot races and other athletic events were held. The stadium was eventually abandoned and fell into disrepair.
#18 Castel Sant’Angelo
Castel Sant'Angelo is a historic fortress originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian in 139 AD. After that, it served as a papal fortress and residence, a prison and a museum. The fortress has a cylindrical shape, topped by an angel statue, added to the building in the 18th century. It is connected to the Vatican by a secret underground passage, the Passetto di Borgo.
Throughout history, Castel Sant'Angelo has served many different purposes. The popes used it as a safe haven during conflicts, and as a prison, it housed high-ranking prisoners (e.g. the artist Benvenuto Cellini). Today, the castle is open to the public as a museum, with exhibitions showing its rich history and works of art.
#19 Castel Sant'Angelo bridge
Also, here you find the Castel Sant'Angelo bridge, which is worth walking across, as the beautiful pedestrian bridge crosses the Tevere, connecting it with the Vatican. The bridge was built in the 2nd century AD and contains ten angel statues designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
#20 Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four papal basilicas. The building was built in the 5th century AD and was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is known for its beautiful interior, depicting scenes from Mary's life with mosaics, frescoes, and impressive architecture. There is also a museum inside, where you can see a collection of religious art and artefacts.
Another notable feature of the basilica is its bell tower, one of the tallest in the area. It is open to visitors all year round, and admission is free. It is near the Termini train station.
#21 Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano
The Lateran Basilica is the oldest and most important of the four papal basilicas. It is located near the Colosseum and was the residence of the Popes until the 14th century.
#22 Basilica Papale San Paolo fuori le Mura
St. Paul's Basilica is located outside the ancient walls and is the burial place of St. Paul the Apostle. It is known for its beautiful mosaics.
#23 Circus Maximus
Circus Maximus is an ancient chariot racing stadium. As one of its largest and most important public entertainment venues, it could accommodate up to 150,000 people. It was originally built in the 6th century BC. The Circus was expanded and renovated several times over the centuries; the most significant renovations took place during the reigns of Julius Caesar and Emperor Augustus.
Today it operates as an open-air museum, as little else remains of the original stadium except for a few ruins and the shape of the oval pitch. Visitors can walk along the track and see the remains of the starting gates and seats.
#24 Campo de Fiori
The name Campo de' Fiori means "flower field", as the area was originally a meadow, but today it is a lively square. The square's rich history dates back to the 16th century when it was used as a fruit and vegetable market. It was also the site of public executions, including that of the philosopher Giordano Bruno in 1600. In the middle of the "flower field" stands a Statue of Giordano Bruno, erected in his honour in 1889.
Today it is still home to a popular market where vendors sell fresh produce, flowers and other goods. The market is open every day except Sunday. The square comes alive in the evenings with music, and the nightlife begins. There are many bars and clubs in the area.
#25 Arch of Constantine
Arco di Costantino, or Arch of Constantine, was built in 315 AD to commemorate Emperor Constantine I's victory over his rival Maxentius. The Arch of Constantine is an important landmark and one of the most impressive examples of triumphal arches. It inspired many later arches and monuments around the world.
It is located near the Colosseum and is made of marble and stone. 21 meters high, 25.9 meters wide and 7.4 meters deep. The arch has three arches, the central one being the most impressive. It is decorated with intricate reliefs and sculptures depicting scenes from Constantine's life and military campaigns.
#26 Piazza Barberini
Piazza Barberini is a square at the intersection of Via Veneto, Via Barberini and Via Sistina. It was named after the Barberini family, one of the most powerful and influential families in the 17th century. The famous Italian architect Bernini designed the square. He also designed the nearby Baroque-style Palazzo Barberini. The centrepiece of Piazza Barberini is the beautiful Triton Fountain, also designed by Bernini in the 17th century. The fountain depicts the sea god Triton, who spouts water from a shell-shaped horn.
#27 Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is a large, oval-shaped square in the northern part, near the entrance to the ancient city. Unfortunately, the square used to be the site of public executions, but in the 19th century until it was transformed. Here you find the twin churches of Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, with an Egyptian obelisk in the middle of the square. You can also find a copy of the statue of Romulus and Remus, which you can still remember from school lessons.
It is a popular venue for concerts, festivals and other events, especially during summer. The square offers stunning views, especially from the terrace at the top of Mount Pincio on the square's edge.
#28 Piazza del Campidoglio
Piazza del Campidoglio is a beautiful square at the top of the Capitoline Hill. The square was designed by Michelangelo in the 16th century and is considered one of the greatest urban planning works. The Palazzo Senatorio, Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo surround it. In the centre of the square stands a statue of the emperor Marcus Aurelius, one of the few surviving equestrian statues from the ancient empire.
The square is built in the shape of a trapezoid and is surrounded by beautiful marble cladding that draws attention to the middle. There are also beautiful fountains and other decorative features, including the bronze statues of Castor and Pollux that originally stood in the baths of Constantine.
#29 Campidoglio e Musei Capitolini
Campidoglio is the Capitolium hill, and the Musei Capitolini is a museum complex. The Musei Capitolini was founded in 1471 and is one of the oldest public museums in the world. It houses a vast collection of ancient art and artefacts, including sculptures, paintings, and archaeological finds. The original statue of Romulus and Remus can also be found here.
#30 Piazza della Bocca della Verità
Piazza della Bocca della Verità, also known as the Mouth of Truth square, is a small public square near the Tiber River. The square takes its name from the Bocca della Verità, a large marble disc with a face carved into it, found on the wall of the nearby church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. The square was the site of a temple dedicated to Hercules and was later used as a market and public meeting place.
#31 Bocca della Verità
The Bocca della Verità is a popular attraction in the square. According to legend, if you put your hand in the face's mouth, it will bite it off if you lie. This makes the Bocca della Verità a popular place for tourists to take photos and test their sincerity.
#32 Belvedere del Gianicolo
The Belvedere del Gianicolo is a popular spot among tourists and locals alike. The vantage point is on Janiculum Hill, one of the highest hills in the area. There is also a statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi, the hero of Italian unification.
#33 Fori Imperiali
Fori Imperiali, or Imperial Forum, is a series of public squares and forums built during the Roman Empire. It was built between 46 BC and 113 AD under various emperors, including Julius Caesar and Augustus. Imperial forums were important public spaces where residents conducted business, held elections, and celebrated various events
Today, the Fori Imperiali is a popular tourist attraction, among which you can walk along the Via dei Fori Imperiali, which runs through the heart of the Imperial Forums. The most significant structures include the Temple of Saturn, the Temple of Vesta and the Arch of Titus.
#34 Isola Tiberina
Tiber Island is a small island in the river Tevere in the centre. The island has a long history is known for its distinctive boat-like shape. According to legend, the island was created when the Romans expelled the last Etruscan king, Tarquin the Proud, and threw his belongings into the Tiber. Over time, mud and debris accumulated around the objects, creating the island.
Today, the island is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is home to many historic buildings and monuments, including the island's Basilica of St. Bartholomew, which houses the relics of St. Bartholomew. The island is a popular spot for picnics and riverside walks, hosting many cultural events yearly.
#35 Catacombs of Rome
Catacombs are underground burial places used by early Christians to bury their dead. A system of tunnels dug into the soft volcanic rock underground. They laid to rest the remains of thousands of people, many of whom were martyrs and saints of the early Christian Church.
Several catacombs are open to the public, the most famous being the catacombs of San Callisto, San Sebastiano and Priscilla. These catacombs are important archaeological sites.
Parks and gardens
Rome is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens, among many others. Its gardens have beautiful fountains, often decorated with statues and carvings. The sculptures often depict gods, goddesses, and other figures from mythology and history. These are usually made of marble or stone.
Its parks are filled with various trees, plants and flowers, creating a colourful and vibrant landscape. Many of these gardens are home to rare and exotic plants that are carefully cultivated and maintained. There are winding paths and walkways among the vegetation. Many of the gardens were "built" on hills or elevated areas. The view is often the highlight of the garden. As a tourist, it is important to know that most parks and gardens are free to enter and are open to the public all year round.
#36 Villa Borghese Gardens
The city's most famous and extensive garden(s) covers more than 80 hectares. It is home to many museums, galleries and monuments, including the Borghese Gallery and the Temple of Aesculapius. The garden(s) offer a variety of activities, including bike hire, boating and even a zoo (Bioparco di Roma).
#37 Orto Botanico di Roma
The Orto Botanico di Roma is a 12-hectare botanical garden near the Trastevere district. It was founded in 1883, making it one of the oldest gardens in Italy. The garden has over 3,000 plant species, including rare and exotic plants worldwide. It has a herb garden, a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and a water garden.
#38 Park of Aqueducts
Spread over 240 hectares; the park is home to several ancient aqueducts and various flora and fauna (e.g. wild boar, foxes and birds). A great place to explore the ruins and learn about the history of the water supply. The Parco degli Acquedotti is on the outskirts, about 10 kilometres from the centre, but easily accessible by public transport.
#39 Garden of Oranges
The garden is located on the Aventine Hill and is known for its stunning views. A perfect choice for watching the sunset and for a romantic walk. The park has many trees and plants, including the orange trees that give it its name. In addition to its natural beauty, the park is home to the vantage point from which you can take a great photo of St. Peter's Basilica at the end of a tree-lined path.
#40 Parco Villa Doria Pamphilj
The largest landscaped garden covers more than 180 hectares. It is also home to the 17th-century Villa Doria Pamphili, a beautiful palace once owned by the powerful Pamphili family. Visitors can explore the villa's beautiful gardens and interiors, which contain impressive frescoes, sculptures and other works of art. The garden has several fountains, ponds, and walking and cycling paths. The park is popular for picnics, jogging and other outdoor activities.
#41 Vatican Gardens
The total area of 23 hectares is the Pope's private gardens in the Vatican. They feature a variety of trees, plants and flowers from around the world. Visitors can only visit based on prior registration.
#42 Garden of Oranges (Parco Savello)
This park is located on the Aventine Hill. Here you can see various trees and plants, including orange trees.
#43 Parco de la Caffarella (Parco dell'Appia Antica)
The park is located on the Appian Way and is a large green area with various walking and cycling paths. It is home to various wildlife and contains several historical ruins, including ancient tombs and aqueducts.
#44 Via Appia Antica (a historic walk)
The Via Appia Antica is one of the region's oldest and most important roads, which played a decisive role in expanding the former empire. It was originally built in 312 BC to connect it with the southern regions of Italy.
Today, the Via Appia Antica is a popular tourist destination, with many ancient ruins and historical sites. Enthusiastic hikers can walk, bicycle or horseback along the road, lined with ancient tombs, villas and churches. Some of the most significant sites include the Catacombs of San Callisto, the Tomb of Cecilia Metella and the Circus of Maxentius.
The Via Appia Antica is also known for its scenic beauty, with hills and lavish countryside views. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the city's history and natural beauty.
Public transport
Getting around can be a challenge, especially for first-timers. Here's a quick summary. Prices:
| Public transportation | Prices |
|---|---|
| 24-hour ticket | 7 euros |
| 48-hour ticket | 13 euros |
| 24-hour night bus ticket | 3 euros |
- Metro: the subway is one of the most convenient and fastest modes of transportation. You can buy a 24-hour or 48-hour pass to use the metro, buses and trams.
- Buses: the bus system covers a larger area than the metro, so exploring different parts is a great option. ATAC operates the buses, and there are more than 350 bus lines and nearly 8,000 bus stops. A single bus ticket costs 1.50 euros. Buses run from 5:30 a.m. to midnight; you can also use night buses on some lines.
- Night buses: If you want to enjoy the days for a long time, night buses are a great choice. Evening buses run from 12:30 to 5:30 and cover most parts of Rome. You can buy your ticket on the night buses or use the 24-hour pass.
Weather
The region has a mild Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers.
- Spring (March to May): temperatures range from 12°C to 20°C. It is characterized by mild weather, sometimes with rainy days, as there is a lot of precipitation in April and May.
- Summer (June to August): Hot and clear, sunny weather with temperatures between 25°C and 35°C.
- Autumn (September to November): It is characterized by mild temperatures ranging from 13 °C to 22 °C. Be prepared for some rain, especially in November.
- Winter (December to February): winter is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 14°C.
When should you travel?
- Weather: The most popular period is the summer months - June, July and August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the peak season. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making them a good choice for those who want to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Events: There are many festivals and events throughout the year, including Easter, the Roman Marathon in April, a film festival in October and Christmas markets in December.
- Prices: Tourist season can be expensive. If you want to save money on your trip, consider visiting in the off-season (November to March) when prices are lower.
Beaches
Likely, those who travel to Rome do not plan to go to the beach, but the sight of a beach may seduce those who spend a long time here in the summer. There are no beaches within the city, but you can find some within easy reach. Here are some of the most popular beaches:
| Beaches | Distance (km) | Information |
|---|---|---|
| Ostia | 25 | Ostia is a popular seaside resort 25 km southwest and can be reached by train from the capital. It has a long sandy beach, a promenade and many restaurants and bars. |
| Fregene | 30 | Fregene is a popular coastal town to the northwest, known for its clear water and long sandy beaches. |
| Anzio | 60 | The historic settlement is located to the south. It has several beaches that are popular with locals and tourists alike. There is also a World War II museum and the ruins of an ancient Roman villa. |
| Sperlonga | 130 | The picturesque coastal settlement attracts tourists with its crystal clear water and white sandy beaches. One of the most popular one-day programs in the area. |
Local Foods
The list of delicious local dishes is endless since we are talking about one of the strongholds of Italian cuisine. The streets are full of amazing restaurants, vendors and markets where you can sample local cuisine and discover new favourites. Here are some specialities worth trying:
- Carbonara: a pasta dish made of eggs, pancetta, pecorino cheese and black pepper. Creamy, rich and delicious.
- Pizza al Taglio: A pizza sold by the slice, known for its crispy crust and variety of toppings.
- Cacio e Pepe: a simple but tasty pasta dish with pecorino cheese, black pepper, and water.
- Supplì: the lesser-known delicacy and a portion of popular street food. Supplì is a deep-fried rice ball filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and sometimes ground beef.
- Saltimbocca alla Romana: a classic dish of thinly sliced veal, prosciutto and sage. It is usually served with a white wine and butter sauce.
Interesting facts
- Rome was founded in 753 BC, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world.
- It is called the "eternal city" because it has survived for over 2,700 years.
- The Colosseum was built in just 8 years and can accommodate up to 50,000 spectators.
- It has more than 900 churches, including St. Peter's Basilica, which is the largest church in the world.
- The Trevi Fountain, one of its most iconic landmarks, is visited by millions of tourists annually. It is estimated that around 3,000 euros are thrown into the fountain daily.
- The Romans invented concrete, an important building material constructing many of their famous structures.
- It was once the largest settlement in the world, with a population of over one million people in the 1st century AD.
- There are 13 obelisks within its walls, more than any other city worldwide.
- A cat sanctuary is also located at the archaeological site of Largo di Torre, Argentina. The sanctuary is home to more than 300 cats, cared for by volunteers.
- There is a pyramid located near the ancient city walls. Built as the tomb of the Roman magistrate Gaius Cestius, it is one of the best-preserved ancient pyramids in the world.
- The world's first shopping centre, Trajan's Market, was built in the 2nd century AD and still stands today.
Famous people
It is worth dusting off your knowledge of history and art, as you will meet more and more famous names one after another. To help you with this, here is the list of the creams:
- Michelangelo: was a famous Italian artist who lived and worked here during the Renaissance. He is known for his sculptures, including the Pietà and David, and his paintings on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
- Raphael: was also a renowned Renaissance artist. He is known for his paintings, including the famous School of Athens fresco in the Vatican.
- Caravaggio: was a famous Baroque painter who lived and worked here in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. You can learn about the dramatic use of light and shadow and the depiction of religious and mythological themes.
- Bernini: was a famous Baroque sculptor of the 17th century. He is known for his dynamic and highly detailed sculptures, including the Fountain of the Four Rivers in Piazza Navona.
- Julius Caesar: was a famous general and statesman who played a crucial role in the rise of the Roman Republic. He conquered most of Europe and expanded the empire to the greatest extent.
- Augustus Caesar: was the first emperor and is considered one of the most important figures in history. He founded the Roman Empire and oversaw a period of relative peace and stability known as the Pax Romana.
- Cicero: was a famous statesman, orator and philosopher who played a key role in the politics of the Republic. He was known for his speeches, philosophy, politics, and writings.
- Nero: ruled from AD 54-68. He was known for his cruelty and extravagance and is famous for allegedly playing the violin while the city burned.
- II. Julius: was a Renaissance pope famous for his patronage of the arts, notably commissioning works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bramante.
- Constantine the Great: was a Roman emperor who played a key role in converting the Roman Empire to Christianity. It is famous for its Edict of Milan, which granted religious tolerance to Christians.
- Seneca: was a philosopher, statesman and playwright in the 1st century AD. He was known for his writings on ethics, morality and Stoic philosophy.
- Thomas Aquinas: also a famous philosopher and theologian who lived in the 13th century AD. He is known for his writings on natural law, ethics, and metaphysics, which greatly influenced the development of Western philosophy.
- Galileo Galilei: a famous Italian mathematician, physicist and astronomer who lived in the 16th and 17th centuries. He is known for his contributions to the scientific revolution, including using the telescope to observe the cosmos.
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