There's a famous saying, one of many that states: All roads lead to Rome. Having been inhabited for more than two thousands years, it is unsurprisingly then how popular a destination the Italian capital has become. Nestled firmly between the North and South of Italy, Rome boasts a charming earthy quality and a vibrancy that inspires and lingers on.
Historical Landmarks
It would be almost criminal to visit Rome without seeing its sights, and what sights it boasts. The Colosseum is easily one of the city's most famous sights and it is well worth a visit. Gladiatorial battles and other Roman sporting events were held here, and the sheer scale of the building, which has survived earthquakes, riots, fires and more is still standing, remarkably, after 2000 years. Nearby, is the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Celian Hill and the Baths of Caracalla, which are all within easy walking distance and easy to cover.
Originally a temple, back in 27 BC, the Pantheon is now more famously known for housing the tombs of two Italian kings and famous Renaissance painter and architect, Raphael. A huge dome that stretches across the building, letting large beams of light highlight the interior, is one of the more notable features of the Pantheon.
Rome's Popular Squares
Piazza Navona is Rome's most famous square, lined with cafes and restaurants charging extremely highly for its prized location, the area is usually buzzing with tourists and as a result, street artists selling their brightly-coloured canvases with traditional tourist views of Rome. Located within the square is the church of Sant' Agnese in Agone, which was built by Borromini. Opposite the church is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi by Bernini. The Fontana del Moro also sits in the square.
Home to a fruit and vegetable market, Piazza Campo de' Fiori is one of Rome's more colourful squares. It's nice to stroll through the stalls and see the wonderful looking fresh food for sale, as well as watching Romans go about their day buying essential cooking ingredients.
Walking in Rome
Not to be overlooked is the Villa Borghese. This stunning area of parkland gives some of the most amazing views of Rome, and has a calm and laid-back atmosphere, that seems almost foreign to the rest of the sprawling city below. Very close by is Piazza de Popolo, an oval-shaped generous space that leads unto Via del Corso, one of Rome's more famous streets.
Via del Corso, which is more commonly known as the Corso, is the main and noticeably very straight street that runs through the historical centre of Rome. Piazza del Popolo is located at its north end and Piazza Venezia is at its south. Located nearby are the Spanish Steps in the Piazza di Spagna. The steps are most famous for being a local hangout for the cool kids of Rome, hoping to be spotted by model scouts.
On the opposite side of the Spanish Steps, across Via del Tritone, is another of Rome's most famous sights. The Trevi Fountain is a huge display of Baroque sculpture at its finest. Tourists gather here in all seasons to chuck a coin the fountain and make a wish and guarantee a visit back to Rome. However many seem to like to attempt to jump in as well, and the nearby police watching do not tolerate it well.
Visiting The Vatican
The Vatican City sits on the west bank of the Tiber, is almost too big to make one visit alone however do dedicate some time to the place, as there is a lot to see and experience. Do cover up, as the Vatican does not allow visitors to come into the church without shoulders and legs (until the knee at the very least) covered. Within the area, is the Castel Sant' Angelo, Piazza San Pietro and the Basilica di San Pietro. The Vatican Museums are one of the highlights of Rome, especially the infamous Sistine Chapel. Bear in mind that queues for this attraction can be extremely long, however it is free every last Sunday of the month.
Artist's District: Trastevere
Last but not least, Trastevere. The name means across the Tiber, and the area used to be an artisan neighourhood in classical times. One of the more alluring and perhaps more exciting activities to be found in this area is the Porta Portese flea market, held on Sundays.This market sells everything from old storage tins, motor parts to trendy clothing and socks in bulk. Look out for the shaved ice and cherry syrup on sale, a delicious and refreshing treat in the hot Roman heat. This district is also a good place to eat, having cheaper options than the usual tourist fare and prices and is known for its trendy bars and buzzing nightlife.
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