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Rome is one of the most interesting cities in the world, the eternal city, the source of Western civilization, the center of one of the most powerful empires in the history of the world. The age of Rome will soon cross the threshold of 3 millennia! One can only remotely imagine how numerous the sights of Rome are – this secret source is practically inexhaustible. Ancient ruins of historical buildings, treasures of open-air museums, numerous temples and baroque facades of luxurious villas – this is just a small example of the riches that every visitor should see in Rome in order to understand what a colossal history this city holds.
< h2> What to see first in Rome
Naturally, one cannot measure in days and weeks the time during which all the treasures of the Italian capital can be covered, but the time frame of travel is sometimes very limited. And then the traveler faces a specific task – what to see in Rome in 1 day or another period of time. For this purpose, a rating of the main memorable places was compiled – symbols from which it is worth starting your acquaintance with the Eternal City.
1. Colosseum
View of the Colosseum from the Farnesian Gardens in Rome
This is a majestic symbol of ancient Rome, which has become one of the main attractions not only in the city, but throughout the world. Millions of tourists from all over the world flock here every year. This monumental building, which, by the way, was erected in the first years of our era, has witnessed famous and often bloody events for 5 centuries. Fierce gladiator fights, cruel executions, torture of slaves, exhibitions of exotic animals and other impressive performances were held here. The ancient stones of the great arena still retain the spirit of those strong emotions that both speakers and spectators of the annual Games had to experience.
Official site: http://www.webcitation
2. Pantheon
Luminous flux in the dome of the Richjheath Pantheon
Another symbol of ancient Roman architecture, which appeared in the era of the highest flowering of art. The “Temple of All Gods”, built in the first decades of our era, was originally a place of worship for pagan gods, and in the 7th century it was consecrated as a Christian temple. Externally, the pantheon is a giant rotunda, covered with a dome-hemisphere with a diameter of 45 meters. The entire height of the structure is 42 meters, and at the very top of the dome there is a through hole 9 meters wide, called the “Eye of the Pantheon”. This building is especially impressive when you find yourself inside it – here you can simultaneously feel the grandeur of the structure and the elegance of its interior decoration.
Official website: http://www.pantheonroma
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3. Vatican
Cityscape of the Vatican
In the heart of Rome is the smallest state in the world – the Vatican, the center of Catholicism and the residence of the Pope. The mini-country has only about 800 citizens, most of whom are employees of the Catholic Church. Nowhere in Rome is there such an abundance of important cultural and historical values as here. The most impressive attraction is St. Peter's Basilica, which most often begins acquaintance with the Vatican. It is difficult to describe all the beauty and grandeur of this grandiose structure, everything is worth seeing with your own eyes. Gardens, a library, the papal palace and other great sights of Rome await the guests of the Vatican.
Official website: http://www.vaticanstate
4. Cathedral and St. Peter's Square
Egyptian obelisk from Nero's Circus and St. Peter's Basilica in Piazza San Pietro in the Vatican
Turning to a detailed study of the treasures of the Vatican, it is worth starting with the already mentioned St. Peter's Basilica, in front of which there is a wide square surrounded by the famous colonnade. The dimensions of the square are impressive – 340×240 m, and if you look at the square from above, its shape repeats the outlines of the key. Baroque sculptor Lorenzo Bernini worked on this creation. St. Peter's Church is not only the spiritual center of Catholicism, but also a real treasury of art, because famous masters of painting such as Bernini, Michelangelo, Bramante, Raphael worked on the painting of the cathedral.
Official site : http://w2.vatican.va
5. Vittoriano
Vittoriano on Venetian Square in Rome, on the slope of the Capitoline Hill
The massive architectural complex, which was built over 40 years, is dedicated to King Victor Emmanuel II – the first of the kings who was able to unite Italy into a single state. The complex is crowned by a bronze sculpture of a king on horseback, behind which is a building with a colonnade. Above the columns, there is an architrave with 16 statues, symbolizing all regions of Italy. Inside the palace itself, there are several museums and galleries where temporary exhibitions are held. There is even a guard of honor in front of the palace and the Eternal Flame is burning.
Official website: http://www.ilvittoriano.com
Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Rome!
6. Roman Forum
Panorama of the Roman Forum
Once this place was the center of important social events, and the ancient Romans knew where to go in Rome to keep abreast of all the latest news in the city and country. Here laws were made, sentences were passed, consuls were appointed, and the latest news was announced. Market squares were adjacent to administrative buildings and temples, new buildings and monuments were erected, and all this continued until, after the fall of the Roman Empire, the forum was ravaged by barbarians. Only fragments of the buildings of the forum have survived to this day, and its territory is included in the protected archaeological zone.
7. Castel Sant'Angelo
Castel Sant'Angelo and the bridge over the Tiber River in Rome
Back in the 2nd century AD. this castle was erected as a tomb for rulers and imperial families. Many monarchs were buried here, and under the emperor Aurelian, the mausoleum was surrounded by a fortress wall in order to protect it from barbarian attacks. The name that the castle has now, it acquired in the 6th century, when, after a general pestilence from the plague, someone saw the image of an angel on the roof of the castle, and a terrible epidemic ended with this sign. Thus, originally planned as a tomb, the castle has played the role of a fortress, a papal residence, a warehouse and even a prison throughout its history. Today, a museum operates within its walls.
8. Trajan's Forum
The ruins of Trajan's Forum and the Militia Tower (in the background) in Rome
The chronicle of the most important events in Rome keeps a forum built by order of Emperor Trajan at the turn of the 1st-2nd centuries AD. Despite the fact that only ruins remain of the forum today, the remaining fragments suggest that Trajan's forum used to be a square surrounded by two libraries, a market and an imperial temple. In order to consolidate his popularity, the emperor sought to build the largest forum, and he succeeded in full: the 220-meter square was decorated with numerous statues, a colonnade and crowned with a high marble column, in which the emperor was later buried.
< em>Official website:http://www.mercatiditraiano
9. Baths of Caracalla
Baths of Caracalla – the ruins of ancient Roman baths near the Appian Way Patrick Denker
Those wishing to be even more impressed by the monumentality of the buildings of the ancient Roman civilization are given the following recommendations on what to visit in Rome. The Baths of Caracala are gigantic structures, more reminiscent of fortresses. In fact, these were ordinary public baths, where they went not only for the purpose of hygiene, but also just to chat and find out the latest news. These structures could simultaneously accommodate more than one and a half thousand people! Despite the fact that at that time, and it was the 3rd century AD, several dozens of such establishments were already operating in Rome, the baths of Caracala are the only buildings of their kind that have survived to this day.
< em>Official website: https://www.coopculture
10. Arch of Constantine
Triumphal Arch of Constantine on Via Sacra in Rome
As you know, the ancient Romans have always been distinguished by a passion for erecting solemn symbols of their victories. The triumphal arch, built at the beginning of the 4th century by Emperor Constantine, symbolized the victory not over a foreign enemy, but over the citizens of his own country, during a civil war. The building is located near the Colosseum and is a rectangular structure with three arched openings – one large in the center and two small on the sides. The arch has impressive dimensions – 26 meters long and 21 meters high. For many centuries, the Arch of Constantine has become a role model in the construction of such buildings.
Official website: http://060608.it/en
11. Piazza Navona
Fountain of the Moor on the south side of Piazza Navona Myrabella
Guides in Rome will not ignore Piazza Navona – this is a long oval square in the center of Rome, the central figure of which is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, which is a 16-meter obelisk with carved sculptures of Roman rulers surrounded by a bowl of water. Along the edges of the square are two smaller bowls – the fountain of the Moor and the fountain of Neptune. Today, Navona is a popular venue for carnivals and Christmas markets. And once upon a time, the ancient circus of Domitian worked on this place, in which not entertaining shows were held, but real athletic competitions – running, throwing spears, fights without rules, etc. Later in the Middle Ages, there was an ordinary market on the site of the circus.
12. Piazza del Popolo
Sculptures and an obelisk in the center of the oval People's Square in Rome
Piazza del Popolo, or Folk, as the Italians call it, is a spacious square, on opposite sides of which there are two Baroque churches, from here three large Roman streets diverge, which in the Middle Ages were important thoroughfares. The center of the square is decorated with a 24-meter stele brought from Egypt – it is believed that its age is 3.5 millennia. At the foot of the stele there are fountains – sculptures in the form of lions, and along the edges of the square there are two more large fountains – the fountain of the Goddess of Rome and Neptune.
13. Spanish Steps
Fountain in the Plaza de España in front of the Spanish Steps leading to Pincho Hill 2pi.pl
In the heart of Rome is the Spanish Square – it is from it that the Spanish Steps in the Baroque style, decorated with flowering flower beds, lead up. In fact, this building has its own complicated history. The church on Pincho Hill, where the staircase leads, was built by the French king. The Spanish embassy was once located on the square itself. Thus, these two countries were in opposition, seeking to demonstrate their influence in Italy. The staircase was built by the Italians as a sign of smoothing this confrontation. If you look at the staircase from above, you can see that its shape resembles the shape of a butterfly.
14. Trastevere district
p>In ancient times, Rome was built, like any other settlement, not far from the reservoir. For Rome, this source was the Tiber River, the right bank of which was once inhabited by the Etruscans from the conquered Etruria, it was they who gave the name to the future Trastevere region. After the Etruscans, the area was inhabited by immigrants from Syria, and then by the Romans themselves. Today, you can see Rome in a slightly different way – the way ordinary poor Italians see it, it is possible in Trastevere. Along the labyrinths of narrow streets stand terracotta buildings entwined with ivy garlands. But there are also interesting places here: temples, museums, cozy restaurants and even a tobacco factory that produces snuff for the popes.
15. Trevi Fountain
Trevi Fountain against the backdrop of the majestic façade of the Palazzo Poli in Rome
The largest fountain in the city, in fact, is part of the facade of the Palazzo Poli Palace, and today it is a place of rest for citizens and a source of life-giving coolness on a hot day. The fountain is a monumental architectural ensemble towering over a huge bowl of the fountain, which is almost 20 meters long. The oval shape of the bowl resembles the shape of an amphitheater, and every evening numerous spectators gather on the steps of the palace and right at the side to contemplate the magnificent spectacle of falling and illuminated water. The very name of the fountain comes from the Italian phrase meaning “3 streets” – it is at the intersection of 3 Roman streets that the fountain is located.
16. Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano
Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist on the Lateran Hill in Rome
In the church hierarchy of Rome, it is this ancient church that comes first, even “exceeding” the title of St. Peter's Cathedral. This is confirmed by a bas-relief carved on the facade of the building, which says that this basilica is the mother of all churches. The temple was erected in the 4th century BC. under Emperor Constantine, six popes were buried here. It is within the walls of San Giovania that the most valuable Christian shrines are stored, including the relics of the holy apostles Paul and Peter, as well as the “Holy Staircase” – it is believed that it was along it that Jesus Christ ascended to be judged by Pontius Pilate.
Official website: http://w2.vatican.
17. San Paolo Fuori le Mura
Statue of St. Paul in front of the facade of St. Paul's Basilica Berthold Werner
It is one of the 4 great papal basilicas and the best sights in Rome. From ancient times to this day, thousands of parishioners rush here in the hope of receiving the forgiveness of the Almighty in a rite called the “Holy Door”. The temple was built in honor of the Christian apostle Paul, who, being tortured, was executed in 67 AD. The tomb of the reposed apostle is located here next to the basilica, and is decorated with a memorial plate. The facade of the basilica is decorated with a mosaic depicting the figure of Christ, surrounded by two apostles – Paul and Peter, and below between the windows – images of four Old Testament prophets. The outer courtyard of the basilica is crowned with a sculpture of St. Paul with a sword and a book.
Official website: http://www.basilicasanpaolo
18. Santa Maria Maggiore
Roman Basilica of the Virgin Mary in Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome
Another of the 4 main basilicas in Rome is the church of Santa Maria Maggiore. The history of its construction dates back to the period of early Christianity, and over the years it has already become a legend. The Mother of God appeared to Bishop Liberius in a dream and ordered to build a temple on the spot where snow would fall in the morning. So in 352 AD. on the Esquiline hill, which was indeed covered with snow that morning, the first stone of the future basilica was laid. With the coming to power of new bishops, the basilica was gradually transformed, and today it has a facade made in a mixture of Romanesque and Baroque styles. The interior of the basilica, although brought to a shine, has retained its authenticity and pristine beauty.
Official website: http://w2.vatican
19. Il Gesú Church
The facade of the main Jesuit temple in Rome – the Church of Il Gesu Darren Copley
This is the main church of the Jesuits, where the founder and patron of their Order, Ignatius Loyola, is buried. The history of the temple began in 1551, when Loyola decided to build a cathedral church for the Order. The style of the church facade is a mixture of Renaissance and Baroque styles – Michelangelo himself worked on the development of the facade, and his students and followers were later involved in the refinement. The interior of the temple is decorated with gilded stucco, and the inside of the dome is decorated with a fresco called “The Triumph of the Name of Jesus.” The decoration of the temple truly delights with an abundance of decorative elements, paintings and shimmering gilding.
20. Great Synagogue or Tempio Maggiore
The Great Synagogue or Tempio Maggiore with a square dome in Rome Mister No
Excursions in Rome do not ignore the largest Jewish prayer house in Rome – the Tempio Maggiore synagogue. The most important religious rites of the Jewish community are performed here. It should be noted that the number of Jews in Rome has been significant since the times when Judea was an ally of the Roman Empire, and a Jewish community was founded in the city. With the unification of Italy and the abolition of the Jewish ghetto, all Jews received Italian citizenship, and it became necessary to build a new synagogue. In addition to the tasks of worship, the Great Synagogue today serves as the cultural center of the Jewish community.
21. Medici Villa
Medici villa with statues and Italian garden with alleys Jean-Pierre Dalbéra
The Italian aristocratic Medici family in the Middle Ages often stayed at their residence, which is a whole architectural and park complex, perfectly preserved to this day. This is a real museum of ancient art, which pleasantly surprises its visitors with well-groomed, skilful work of masters of architecture and gardening art. Today, the French Academy of Arts is located within the walls of the villa. Numerous art exhibitions, concerts and other cultural events are constantly held here. In the palace you can see interesting exhibits – antique furniture, engravings, tapestries, as well as a large archive of documents conveying the history of art in the country.
Official website: https://www.villamedici
22. Villa Borghese
The Temple of Aesculapius was built in the 19th century at the Villa Borghese under the influence of a lake in Stourhead Park, Wiltshire
A trip to Rome's landscaped parks is not complete without a visit to Villa Borghese, the third largest park complex in the city. The history of the park began in the 17th century, when a park was laid out on the territory planted with vineyards by order of Cardinal Borghese. The reviews of those who have visited the park convey a special admiration for the palace, the interior of which is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Of particular note is the Borghese Gallery, which exhibits various works of art that have become part of the rich Borghese heritage. In addition to the palace itself, there are many other buildings in the park – for example, the building of the zoological museum, the botanical garden and the zoo.
Official website: http://www.060608.it/en
23. Wax Museum
The main entrance to the building of the Geobia Wax Museum
The Roman Wax Museum is considered the 3rd in the ranking of museums in Europe in terms of its importance, second only to Madame Tussauds in London and Grevin in Paris. In Rome, this is the largest institution among the city's museums. In total, in its 11 halls, there are about 2.5 hundred wax figures, amazingly accurately conveying the appearance of prominent politicians, scientists, cultural and art figures. Particular attention is paid to key figures of the 20th century. Separately, you can see expositions made of wax, realistically conveying entire events of the historical past.
Official website: http://www.museodellecer
24. Bioparco Zoo< /h3>
Bioparco zoo gate in the park of Villa Borghese Bgabel
Villa Borghese has already been mentioned in the review earlier, now it's time to pay attention to one of its attractions. We are talking about a zoo located on the territory of a pompous villa. At the beginning of the last century, a landscaped area was organized in Borghese Park, imitating a corner of the wild. Unlike a classic zoo, Bioparco does not have cages, and the inhabitants live in a space that does not constrain their amenities – the area of the zoo is as much as 17 hectares. In total, this territory is inhabited by about a thousand different animals, including several species of reptiles, mammals and many birds. The combination of elements of majestic architecture and corners of the “wild” nature of the zoo leaves an extraordinary impression.
Official website: http://www.bioparco
25. Pasta Museum in Rome
There is a huge variety of types and shapes of ChiemseeMan pasta
Surely everyone knows that pasta is a favorite dish of Italians, which has become a symbol of the national cuisine of Italy. Pasta, or in a simple way, pasta, Italians contrive to cook in a wide variety of variations, with unusual sauces and other ingredients. Museum visitors discover an amazing story of pasta creation and the evolution of its production, showcasing the techniques used in production, from the old, like a sieve and rolling pin, to the most advanced equipment. The exhibition also features historical documents, postcards, stamps and other exhibits that shed light on some moments in the history of Italian pasta.
Official website: http://museodellapasta.
Rome attractions: what else to visit in Rome?
The list of sights of Italy and its Eternal City can be continued indefinitely, and even after getting acquainted with the Roman treasures from the above top 25, you can always continue the journey, consolidating the impression by visiting other, no less interesting places. The rating continues with other sights of Rome, photos with names and descriptions of which are worthy of your attention.
26. ViGaMus Video Game Museum
Entry to the ViGaMus video game museum in Rome Barbiere1138
For those who are interested in the history of computer technology and everything connected with it, a direct road to the ViGaMus Museum. 4 hundreds of museum exhibits are presented in exhibition halls divided into thematic zones. Among them – samples of computer technology, computers and individual components, software, game consoles and consoles. In addition, the museum has an extensive collection of video games from around the world. In addition to viewing the exhibits, you can immerse yourself in the virtual world of some modern game and go on an imaginary journey.
Official website: http://www.vigamus.com
27. Pyramid of Cestius
Pyramid of Cestius – Tomb of Praetor Gaius Cestius Epulus Blackcat
On the eastern side of the port of San Paolo, a mysterious structure is built right into the fortress wall of the old city – the pyramid of Cestius. Those who have seen this ancient monument are wondering where the ancient Egyptian pyramid came from in Rome. This monument was erected according to the will of the ancient Roman politician Caius Cestius back in 12 BC. The fact is that after the conquest of Egypt by the Roman Empire, many Romans were fascinated by the architecture of Egypt, among them was Caius Cestius. His high position in society gave him the right to fulfill his unusual dying wish – to be buried in a tomb similar to an ancient Egyptian pyramid.
28. Catacombs of Rome
Rome's catacombs lie below the surface Rome and created in the era of early Christianity Dnalor 01
The main attractions of Rome are briefly continued by a unique historical monument – underground labyrinths, in which the very first Christians and pagans buried the dead. The history of the creation of the catacombs begins in the 5th century BC. with the introduction of a ban on the burial of the dead within the city. This was the beginning of the creation of huge underground corridors, where the dead found their eternal rest. In the side walls of the corridors, niches were hollowed out in several rows, where the bodies were placed. The remains of martyrs and saints were buried in special niches with a small elaborately decorated arch.
Official website: https://www.catacombe.roma
29. Antique Hippodrome
The Great Circus of Ancient Rome between the Palatine and Aventine Hills on the left bank of the Tiber
This is the largest hippodrome of Ancient Rome, located in its historical part, on the left bank of the Tiber. In ancient Rome, this impressive field was surrounded by spectator stands, and various performances unfolded in the center – as a rule, these were equestrian competitions in chariots. The idea to create a stadium belonged to the Fifth King of the Roman Empire, later, under different rulers, the square was expanded and improved, and the last competition took place around the 6th century AD. With the fall of the Roman Empire, the stadium began to fall into disrepair, and today it has turned into a walking park area.
30. Appian Way
The first Roman paved road from the legendary Rome to the south of the peninsula
The “Queen of the Roads” was once a great road connecting Rome with its most important neighbors – Egypt, Greece and the countries of Asia. It was built during the 4th century BC, when trade with neighboring countries began to improve. The creation of the road was associated with the name of Appius, one of the high officials of Rome. Today, part of the Appian Way starts right in the city. Starting the excursion along the ancient stone paving stones, along the way you can see and visit such ancient monuments as the ancient gates of San Sebastian, tombs, entrances to the catacombs, the sanctuary and many other interesting sights.
Official site: http://www.parcoappiaantica
The hospitable capital of Italy welcomes everyone, demonstrating its cordiality and magnetism to everyone who sets foot on these lands. The Eternal City is friendly to any tourist and demonstrates all the most interesting, attracting the attention of millions: numerous excursions reveal priceless treasures concentrated here in every winding street and every stone, and hotels in Rome meet with exquisite aristocracy and a high level of service. Read also about the sights of Florence and be inspired to travel further in Italy.