Rome.com

Rome.com With more than 2000 listed and verified places including restaurants, attractions and museums.

TOP SITES TO VISITThere is so much to see and do in Rome that you will be spoilt for choice. These are a few of the high...
10/01/2023

TOP SITES TO VISIT

There is so much to see and do in Rome that you will be spoilt for choice. These are a few of the highlights of any stay in this fascinating city:

--------------------------------

Citta del Vaticano (The Vatican City)

No stay in Rome would be complete without a visit to the Vatican City. It is famously the world’s smallest sovereign state, with a population of fewer than one thousand, ruled by the Pope.

--------------------------------

Papal Basilica of St. Peter in the Vatican (St. Peter’s Basilica)

St. Peter’s Basilica is the spiritual heart of the Vatican and of the Catholic Church itself. Its lavish interior is full of beautiful works of art including Michelangelo’s moving Pietà. He was also responsible for the design of the ornate dome, which rises to 119 metres.

--------------------------------

Piazza San Pietro (St. Peter’s Square)

The enormous square, which faces St. Peter’s Basilica, can accommodate over 300,000 people. It is surrounded by more than 284 impressive columns, topped by statues of saints. At its centre are two beautiful fountains and a 25 metre high obelisk, transported from Egypt in 1586.

--------------------------------

Ca****la Sistina (Sistine Chapel)

The Sistine Chapel, where popes are selected and crowned, is perhaps the Vatican’s most famous treasure, renowned for Michelangelo’s exquisite ceilings, which he spent four years painting. It is covered with frescoes painted by some of the world’s best-known artists including Botticelli, Perugino and Luca.

Vatican Museums à Refer to the Museums Section

http://www.vaticanstate.va/content/vaticanstate/en.html

--------------------------------

Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain)

The Trevi Fountain is a magnificently ornate structure completed in 1762 and made from travertine stone. Thanks to a tradition which came from the 1954 film ‘Three Coins in the Fountain’, visitors throw coins into the fountain hoping to find love and return to Rome. As a result, the equivalent of nearly one million Euros in coins is tossed into the fountain each year, which is all donated to charity.

http://www.trevifountain.net/

--------------------------------

Pantheon

The Pantheon was built in 126AD and is the most significant building remaining from ancient Rome. It was built as a temple to the gods, and retains a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Intriguingly, it is exactly as wide as it is tall – 43.5 metres. Its most unusual feature is the hole in its impressive dome, which provides light into the building. Its portico is supported by 16 huge Corinthian columns, transported all the way from Egypt. Today, it houses the tombs of many of Italy’s kings.

--------------------------------

Forum Romanum (Roman Forum)

The Roman Forum is the historic heart of ancient Rome. It is a unique and awe-inspiring experience to walk through history as you wander along its main street, the Via Sacra, and take in its well-preserved temples and squares. It is hard to believe that this fascinating site lay buried and forgotten for so many years, until it was excavated in the 20th century.

--------------------------------

Piazza Navona

This Baroque piazza is one of Rome’s largest and most beautiful squares. The Piazza Navona is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike, who enjoy wandering amongst its street artists and dining at the many restaurants which surround the square. At its heart is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, with its unusual focal point of a large obelisk.

Colosseum Refer to Landmarks and Architecture Section

--------------------------------

https://rome.com/general/top-sites-to-visit/

MUSEUMSThe city of Rome itself has been described as a living museum. It attracts history buffs from all over the world ...
10/01/2023

MUSEUMS

The city of Rome itself has been described as a living museum. It attracts history buffs from all over the world and its many museums showcase a wealth of cultural and historic artefacts from its rich and fascinating history.

--------------------------------

Vatican Museums

Surely top of anyone’s list of places to visit in Rome are the Vatican Museums. Perhaps foremost of their treasures is Michelangelo’s famous masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel, but they are also home to a treasure trove of painting, sculpture and other works of art dating back to the 1500s, which have been collected by the popes throughout the ages. There are hundreds of rooms packed full of masterpieces by famous names such as Giotto, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, il Perugino and Caravaggio. Also of note are the delightful Raphael frescoes and the collection of contemporary religious art. It is open Monday to Saturday (inclusive) and every last Sunday morning in the month.

www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html

--------------------------------

Museo Nazionale di Castel Sant’Angelo

This ornate building is one of the most recognisable in Rome. It sits on the banks of the Tiber River and has been likened to a crown or a decorative wedding cake. Situated close to the Vatican it is open every day except for Christmas and New Year’s Day. It was built in 139 AD and was used by the popes as a fortress. It is also known by its ancient name of the Mausoleum of Hadrian. It houses a museum displaying relics, art and historic artefacts, some related to the Italian Army. Enjoy wandering along its circular walkways as you soak up the atmosphere.

http://castelsantangelo.beniculturali.it/ (In Italian)

--------------------------------

Museo Capitolino (Capitoline Museums)

The Museum is considered to be the oldest in the world, and contains collections, which date back to 1471. It includes the renowned Ritratto di Carlo I d’Angiò de Arnolfo di Cambio, which dates from 1277 and is known to be the world’s first sculpture of a living person. It contains a rich collection of ancient Roman statues made from bronze and marble, as well as beautiful frescoes and a wealth of medieval and Renaissance art. One of its best-known exhibits is the original sculpture of the Capitoline Wolf. It is open every day expect Mondays.

http://www.museicapitolini.org/en

--------------------------------

Musei di Villa Torlonia

This fascinating museum was once inhabited by one of Rome’s noble families. It is one of the most recent examples of its type and has recently been restored to its former glory. It has an impressive Neoclassical façade and lavish interiors. The main building is the Casino Nobile, which houses an extensive collection of artwork. Its opulent interior contains a stunning Ballroom with rooms decorated in Gothic, Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Classical styles. Don’t miss the Egyptian Room, which is quite spectacular and certainly one of a kind in Rome! The Casina delle Civette (House of the Owls) is dedicated to the art of stained glass, containing numerous exquisite examples. It is a charming mix of architectural styles resembling a fairy-tale castle combined with a rustic farmhouse and a Gothic castle. It is open every day except Mondays.

http://www.museivillatorlonia.it/en

--------------------------------

https://rome.com/general/museums/

FILMS & THEATRERome has a rich and vibrant cultural life, which includes both film and theatre. It is not surprising tha...
10/01/2023

FILMS & THEATRE

Rome has a rich and vibrant cultural life, which includes both film and theatre. It is not surprising that a city, which has itself served as the atmospheric backdrop for so many films, offers many opportunities for visitors to enjoy performances on stage and screen.

--------------------------------

International Film Festival of Rome

This renowned film festival takes place each year at the Auditorium Parco della Musica. It is a great time to visit to see international premieres and documentaries as well as enjoying live shows, concerts and special exhibitions.

--------------------------------

Teatro dell’Opera

This stylish Neo-Renaissance theatre first opened its doors in 1890. Famous for its 1920s Fascist exterior and opulent horseshow-shaped interior with gilded rows of boxes, it is an atmospheric venue to enjoy a world-class performance. It seats up to 1600 people and is renowned for its excellent acoustics.

https://www.operaroma.it/en/

--------------------------------

Teatro Argentina

First opened in 1732, the Teatro Argentina has the distinction of being one of Rome’s oldest theatres. It is an interesting building with brick exterior and an interior constructed completely from wood. The U shape of its auditorium and the rows of wooden seats arranged in banks contribute to its wonderful acoustics as well as ensuring excellent visibility. It still plays host to many diverse performances – from opera to drama and contemporary prose.

http://teatrodiroma.net/

--------------------------------

CineCittà Studios

This iconic studio complex is the largest in Europe. It was famously founded by Mussolini, and stands as a testament to his faith in the power of cinema. It was here that some of the twentieth century’s best-known classic films were made, with eye-watering budgets. These include epics such as Ben Hur and Cleopatra. It was also here in Cinecittà that the famous Italian director Federico Fellini made most of his films. As well as the sets themselves, the studios are also home to a film-themed amusement park, Cinecittà World, a favourite with children, who will enjoy its fun rides and shows.

http://www.cinecitta.com/EN/en/cms/140/luce-cinecitta.aspx

https://www.cinecittaworld.it/?l=en

--------------------------------

Casa del Cinema

Set in Rome’s beautiful Villa Borghese Park, the pavilion which houses the Casa del Cinema is home to three projection theatres as well as an exhibition space and an outdoor theatre, which seats 200 people. The verdant setting is the perfect place to enjoy an al fresco screening during the summer months. Check the programme to see what is showing – usually films are selected according to a theme and many international films are shown in their original language, which is great for visitors to Rome.

http://www.casadelcinema.it/ (In Italian)

--------------------------------

Cinema dei Piccoli

Rome is a city of extremes, and this charming cinema has the distinction of being the world’s smallest, with just 63 comfortable seats. Tucked away in what is little more than a wooden shed, this quirky venue provides an intimate cinematic experience. During the day it usually shows children’s films, and in the evenings there is a varied programme of films from which to choose. It’s a unique experience and its simplicity provides a great contrast to some of Rome’s larger and glitzier venues.

http://www.cinemadeipiccoli.it/ (In Italian)

--------------------------------

https://rome.com/general/films-theatre/

MUSICRome is known as a romantic and passionate city, so it’s no surprise that the city’s musical life is extremely vibr...
10/01/2023

MUSIC

Rome is known as a romantic and passionate city, so it’s no surprise that the city’s musical life is extremely vibrant and diverse. From classical opera to jazz; hip venues to concerts in ancient Roman sites – Rome really does have something for everyone!

--------------------------------

Opera

More traditional music-lovers will enjoy a visit to Rome’s premium opera house, the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, a historic building which puts on a programme of lively opera performances. Check to see what’s on before you visit – there are usually seats available at surprisingly affordable prices.

--------------------------------

Live Music Venues

Rome has no shortage of live music venues. Whether you prefer jazz or rock, you are sure to enjoy Rome’s atmospheric nightlife. Check listings sites to see what’s on during your stay.

Fanfulla 101 is a hip venue whose intimate stage hosts local bands and musicians, as well as art and community events. It’s a great place to get a flavour of the real Rome! Le Mura blends ancient and modern in style – it is built adjacent to a section of the Aurelian Walls, which date back to 273BC, but it hosts up-to-the-minute live music including open jam sessions and a diverse selection of styles including jazz, techno and rock music. Gregory’s is one of Rome’s best known jazz clubs, bursting with character and atmosphere. The Boogie Club combines two of Rome’s great passions – food and music. It is a bar and a steakhouse, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal to the rhythm of blues and rock music. Sinister Noise Club pulls in a young and trendy crowd. It is one of Rome’s coolest venues hosting cutting edge indie, alternative and rock bands – the best place to hear the newest local acts. If jazz is more your style, then head to Il Cantiere – Agus Collective, a jazz theatre, which puts on two or three concerts every week, featuring a collective of 15 or so jazz musicians.

--------------------------------

Music Festivals

As well as the permanent live music venues, Rome also plays host to many seasonal festivals which celebrate music. Check what’s happening in the city before you travel to make the most of local events – some of them take place in Rome’s most spectacular historic settings.

--------------------------------

Roma Incontra il Mondo also known as the Villa Ada Festival is held t the park of the same name, Villa Ada Park. It is a lively world music festival celebrating performers from around the world. Soak up the atmosphere wandering around the market and sampling delicacies from the food stalls.

www.villaada.org

--------------------------------

Villa Celimontana Jazz Festival is a popular event which takes place during the summer months. Nightly jazz concerts are held at Villa Celimontana. What could be more romantic than dining al fresco under the stars, to the strains of live jazz music!

www.villacelimontanajazz.com

--------------------------------

Ostia Antica Festival The incredibly intact ancient city of Ostia Antica, a short train ride from Rome, is brought to life with plays, ballet, comedy and other performances held in the incomparable setting of the stunning ancient theatre.

www.ostianticateatro.com

--------------------------------

Summer Opera Season Enjoy opera performances held in the spectacular setting of the Caracalla Thermal Baths – an unforgettable experience!

www.operaroma.it

--------------------------------

https://rome.com/general/music/

PARKS & GARDENSThinking of Rome may often conjure an image of ancient buildings and monuments, but in fact it is one of ...
10/01/2023

PARKS & GARDENS

Thinking of Rome may often conjure an image of ancient buildings and monuments, but in fact it is one of Europe’s greenest cities. Famously built on seven hills, its grand parks and gardens combine nature and art to stunning effect – the perfect places to wander or enjoy an al fresco picnic in style.

--------------------------------

Villa Borghese Gardens

This is one of Rome’s most iconic gardens, set in the very heart of the city. The Villa Borghese Gardens combine lush green nature and mature trees with beautiful historic architecture. At every turn you will find fascinating sculptures, intriguing fountains and inspiring buildings, including the Galleria Borghese museum. Many of these works have been created by renowned artists throughout the ages. Wandering the gardens is a delightful way to spend a lazy afternoon, but there is also a variety of things to do here. Visit the Bioparco, one of the oldest zoological gardens in Europe, where many of the animals roam freely. Make sure that you enjoy the panoramic views over Rome from the Pincio terrace, and don’t miss the Piazza di Siena horse-riding track, or the magnificent lake with its Ionic temple.

https://www.villaborghesetours.com/info/

http://www.bioparco.it/english/

--------------------------------

Villa Doria Pamphili

This landscaped park, which is the largest in Rome, is one of the city’s hidden treasures. It was conceived as the ‘secret garden’ belonging to the baroque Villa Algradi, built in the 17th century for the local Pamphili family. The villa itself is not open to the public, but the unusual triangular-shaped garden, with its peaceful ambience, is well worth a visit in its own right.

http://www.sovraintendenzaroma.it/i_luoghi/ville_e_parchi_storici/ville_dei_nobili/villa_doria_pamphilj
(In Italian)

--------------------------------

Vatican Gardens

The Vatican’s Gardens may not be its most obvious attraction but, in fact, they are well worth adding to your list of must-see places. It is imperative to book a guided tour in advance, which takes around two hours. The Vatican Gardens date back to 1279 and incorporate features of English, French and Italian landscaping, including landscaped terraces, ornate fountains, monuments and grottoes. Look out for the 14 ‘Maria’ images, which symbolise prayers for the Virgin Mary from around the world. The gardens are also home to the Vatican train station, heliport and radio station.

http://www.vaticanstate.va/content/vaticanstate/en/monumenti/giardini-vaticani.html

--------------------------------

Appian Way Regional Park

The Appian Way is one of Rome’s best-known and most ancient roads. Leading away from the city centre, this unique, ancient park combines peaceful historic gardens with ancient tombs and underground catacombs. If possible, plan your visit for a Sunday when the area is closed to traffic, making it a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

http://www.parcoappiaantica.it/

--------------------------------

Farnese Gardens, Palatine Hill

The imposing Palatine Hill is a verdant oasis of peace, set above the city enjoying superlative panoramic views over Rome. Its extensive archaeological remains are set amongst beautiful greenery, fragrant wild flowers and charming hedgerows, which are a haven for wildlife. You may even spot a rabbit or two scampering past as you admire the stunning urban vistas spread out below.

http://www.grandigiardini.it/lang_EN/giardini-scheda.php?id=68

ART SCENERome is practically synonymous with art and culture. It is a city where some of the world’s greatest artists ha...
10/01/2023

ART SCENE

Rome is practically synonymous with art and culture. It is a city where some of the world’s greatest artists have lived and worked and is home to some of the world’s most famous works of art. Here’s a selection of the places which art-lovers should not miss:

--------------------------------

Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna (National Gallery of Modern Art)

Italy’s National Gallery of Modern Art displays some of the country’s finest works of modern and contemporary art. It was founded in 1883 and is housed within the splendid Palace of Fine Arts, noted for its neoclassical architecture. It houses Italy’s largest collection of paintings and sculpture dating from the 19th and 20th centuries. Its collection encompasses over 5000 works of art by both Italian and renowned international artists. It is open every day except Mondays.

www.lagallerianazionale.com

--------------------------------

Maxxi, the National Museum of Art from the 21st century

The Maxxi brings Rome’s art credentials bang up to date showcasing works from the 21st century, notably the art of the Neapolitan painter, Francesco Clemente, and dramatic sculptures created by the British sculptor Anish Kapoor. The Maxxi building itself is an attraction in its own right, and is a suitably modern creation constructed from contemporary materials such as glass, steel and concrete. It is open every day except Mondays.

http://www.maxxi.art/en/

--------------------------------

Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome (MACRO)

A visit to the MACRO, as it is affectionately known, will confirm beyond all doubt that Roman art is much more than ancient history. This municipal, contemporary art museum is located on two separate sites within Rome. The first is set on Via Nizza, constructed on the site of a disused Peroni beer factory, and the second is in the Testaccio neighbourhood, set in a former slaughterhouse. Its permanent collection displays some of Italy’s most important works of art, dating from the 1960s onwards. The MACRO on Via Nizza boasts a stunning multi-level rooftop garden and you shouldn’t leave without stopping off in the impressive gift shop.

www.museomacro.org

--------------------------------

Art Festivals

As well as visiting the impressive permanent collections in Rome’s art galleries, visitors should also check to see which art and cultural events may be taking place during their stay. There’s usually plenty going on throughout the year.

Expo Tevere – This extensive arts and crafts fair stretches along the banks of the Tiber as it winds through Rome. It takes place from early to mid-July every year. Summer visitors will find plenty to entertain them in its busy stalls including delicious street food, live music and a diverse range of activities.

www.lungoiltevereroma.it

--------------------------------

September Arts and Antique Fairs – Those visiting in September will find Rome bursting with fascinating street fairs. If you have an interest in antiques, fine art or local Italian crafts you are sure to find something enticing. Stop off at the antiques fair on Via dei Coronari, peruse the art fair, which is set up along Via Margutta, or wander along Via dell’Orso near Piazza Navona during the crafts fair to enjoy the stalls displaying local handicrafts.

https://rome.com/general/art/

--------------------------------FESTIVALSRome is an exciting place to visit at any time of year but it is always worth c...
10/01/2023

--------------------------------

FESTIVALS

Rome is an exciting place to visit at any time of year but it is always worth checking before your trip to see what’s on. Since it is such an important centre for religion and particularly for Roman Catholicism, many festivals are religious in nature.

--------------------------------

La Befana Ephiphany

The Feast of the Epiphany or La Befana Ephiphany takes place on January 6th to mark the end of the Christmas celebrations. Traditionally, on this day, Italian children are given small gifts and sweets. Hundreds of people process towards the Vatican in medieval dress, carrying symbolic gifts for the Pope. A celebration takes place on the Piazza Navona with dancing, music and entertainment.

--------------------------------

Carnevale and Lent

February is one of Rome’s most exciting months as it sees the Carnevale, the festival preceding the Christian period of Lent. Events take place all over Rome starting with a costume parade through the Via del Corso. There are performances and events for children in Rome’s squares and there is often an artificial ice rink set up in the Castel Sant’ Angelo.

--------------------------------

Easter

Easter is one of the most important celebrations in the Catholic church. During the two-week Easter period, many thousands of pilgrims journey to Rome to witness the religious celebrations. The highlight is undoubtedly, the Easter Mass held in St. Peter’s Square.

--------------------------------

Natale di Roma (Rome’s Birthday)

April 21st is the date on which the legendary foundation of Rome, which took place in 753 BC, is celebrated. Entry charges are waived for many archaeological sites, monuments and museums. Celebrations include a parade of gladiators at the Circus Maximus, concerts at the Piazza del Campidoglio and a firework display over the River Tiber.

--------------------------------

Festa della Repubblica (Republic Day)

June 2nd is the date when the founding of the Italian Republic in 1946, is celebrated. A military parade takes place on the Via dei Fori Imperiali leading towards the Colosseum. Overhead, display planes leave multi-coloured smoke trails depicting the Italian flag and military bands play in the Quirinale Gardens.

--------------------------------

Festa dei Noantri (Festival for the Rest of Us)

This popular local festival takes place in the second half of July in the neighbourhood of Trastevere, with street entertainment and stalls selling food and drink. It is centred around a procession where an elaborately decorated statue of the Madonna of Mount Carmel is carried through the streets from the church of St. Agata towards the church of St. Crisgono. It remains there for eight days before returning by boat on the River Tiber.

--------------------------------

Christmas

Rome’s Christmas festivities begin with the Christmas markets, which open at the beginning of December, selling handicrafts, decorations and delicious treats. The most famous of them is at Piazza Navona. Rome is well known for its nativity scenes, which are displayed throughout the city. Traditionally, they are completed on Christmas Eve with the addition of the baby Jesus and this is when the life-size nativity scene is unveiled in St. Peter’s Square. On December 8th the Pope marks the feast of the Immaculate Conception by undertaking a pilgrimage from the Vatican to Piazza di Spagna, where he lays a wreath in front of the Church of the Trinita dei Monti at the Column of the Immaculate Conception.

https://rome.com/general/festivals-in-rome/

PLACES OF WORSHIPSince Rome is such a significant city for the Roman Catholic church, it is no surprise that it is full ...
10/01/2023

PLACES OF WORSHIP

Since Rome is such a significant city for the Roman Catholic church, it is no surprise that it is full of historic churches. Whatever your personal beliefs, these buildings are well worth a visit for their magnificent architecture and the spectacular works of art which they contain.

--------------------------------

Papal Basilica of St. Peter in the Vatican (St. Peter’s Basilica) Refer to Top Sites to Visit Section

--------------------------------

Ca****la Sistina (Sistine Chapel) Refer to Top Sites to Visit Section

--------------------------------

Santa Maria in Trastevere

This impressive medieval church, set in the Piazza Santa Maria, in the lively neighbourhood of Trastevere, is one of Rome’s oldest places of worship. It is also known as the Basilica of Our Lady and is believed to be the first of Rome’s churches to have been dedicated to Mary. It was built in 340 AD but some now believe that the church was in fact given this dedication later in the 8th century by Pope Adrian I.

The church is renowned for its stunning mosaic art works, which date back to the 12th century as well as the opus sectile floor created in the Cosmatesque style. Its coffered gold ceiling is also a highlight, decorated with intricate carvings and elaborate paintings.

--------------------------------

Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano (Basilica of St. John Lateran) and Santuario della Scala Santa (Palace of the Holy Steps)

These two historic churches are set on either side of the Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano. The Basilica of St. John Lateran has the distinction of being the oldest church in Europe. During the fourth century, the building was converted from a palace into a temple. The Basilica’s impressive interior boasts imposing columns and monumental statues and its walls and ceiling are covered with decorative mosaics and frescoes. Don’t miss the Altar of the Holy Sacrament, which has as its centrepiece a cedar table, which is believed to have been used by Jesus and his disciples at the Last Supper.

The 13th century cloisters display Cosmatesque mosaics and unusual spiral columns.

The nearby Scala Santa Church may be relatively small and less imposing than its grander neighbour, but it is home to an important site of international pilgrimage. The 28 steps, made from Tyrian marble are known as the Holy Steps and are said to have been taken from the actual staircase in Pilate’s house, which Jesus walked down after being condemned to death. They were moved to this site in 1589 and have been visited by pilgrims from all over the world ever since, who climb them on their knees.

--------------------------------

Great Mosque of Rome

This impressive mosque is the largest in Europe. Set on the Viale della Moschea it was designed as a collaboration between two architects, one of whom was Iraqi and the other Italian. This has produced an intriguing blend of different architectural styles, featuring repeated designs and beautiful geometric patterns and shapes. Its palm-shaped columns symbolise the relationship between Allah and those who worship here. The clever use of light undoubtedly contributes to the sense of peaceful meditation which characterises the Great Mosque

https://rome.com/general/places-of-worship/

ARCHITECTURE & LANDMARKSRome is at the centre of world architecture and classical design and it was here that structures...
10/01/2023

ARCHITECTURE & LANDMARKS

Rome is at the centre of world architecture and classical design and it was here that structures such as the arch, the vault and the dome were established. The city is a treasure trove of different architectural styles including Classical, Imperial Roman and Fascist.

Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. This iconic site is visited by more than 6 million tourists each year. Its huge gladiatorial arena is encircled by outer walls, which have three levels of columns and arches. It dates back to AD 80 and had room for more than 50,000 spectators who would watch displays of exotic animals, gladiator fights, public executions, recreations of battles and other spectacles. It was the Roman Empire’s centre of entertainment for over 500 years. It is no surprise that it was named as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World in 2007. It is open daily.

--------------------------------

Circus Maximus

The Circus Maximus was constructed in the 6th century BC as a chariot racetrack, which was also used for games and gladiatorial combat. In its heyday it would have had room for at least 150,000 spectators in a structure measuring 620 x 140 metres. It had obelisks placed as a barrier in the centre of the track and laps were marked by ornamental eggs and dolphins. These days, little remains of the structure itself, but it is an attractive open green space, which is popular with locals.

--------------------------------

Pyramid of Caius Cestius

This is the only remaining example of a Roman pyramid. It is 36 metres high, constructed of brick and cement, with a façade of white marble, and was built between 18 and 12 BC as a mausoleum for a wealthy Roman. It rises at a steeper angle than the Egyptian pyramids. One of the best vantage points is from the Protestant Cemetery inside the Aurelian walls.

--------------------------------

Terme di Caracalla (Baths of Caracalla)

This impressive thermal bathhouse complex was one of ancient Rome’s largest at 214 by 114 metres, built on four levels, two of which were below the ground. It had an effective water supply and drainage system. It also had its own heating system which heated the water, as well as the floors and walls of the baths, by means of wood-fired ovens, tended by slaves. It fulfilled many functions in ancient Rome, not only as a bath, sports and health facility but also as a place to socialise and relax.

--------------------------------

Fori Imperiali (Imperial Forums)

These magnificent public squares, known as the Imperial Forums, symbolised the authority of the Roman Emperors, built to demonstrate their power and riches. They are set along the main street of Via dei Fori Imperiali. The first was built by Julius Caesar in 46 BC and then by subsequent Emperors: Trajan, Augustus and Nerva, during the period up until 113 AD. Walking through these grand squares feels like taking a step back in time through the history of ancient Rome itself.

https://rome.com/general/architecture-landmarks/

Address


Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Rome.com posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

  • Address
  • Alerts
  • Claim ownership or report listing
  • Want your business to be the top-listed Travel Agency?

Share