Rome
About Rome
A heady mix of historic ruins, vibrant street life, awe-inspiring art and great food, Rome is one of the most charismatic cities across Europe. Centuries after the historical ruling of the world from the city, Rome captivates visitors today in a way few other places across the globe can. The city earned its name as the Eternal City from the ancient inhabitants as they believed that it would remain standing no matter what happened elsewhere in the world. Walking Rome today takes any visitor back in time to the glory that was the ancient city.
The beating heart of Rome today are the numerous piazzas which showcase everything from ornate churches to Egyptian style obelisks. They range from small, intimate affairs to huge spaces with fountains in the centre. One of the most popular is Piazza Navona where the surrounding streets are lined with cafes and restaurants. The most famous of the fountains is of course the Trevi Fountain.
The towering Colosseum evokes memories of fierce gladiatorial battles (tickets should be booked online to visit here) – no less than 80 arches permitted entry to the 65000 spectators who came to watch. One of the most recognisable buildings in the city is the famous Pantheon of Rome – the original purpose of the building remains unknown. Today, the dome is the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. It measures 44.4 metres and curiously as that is the same as the height from the floor to the oculus at the centre which allows light into the structure.
In the heart of the city is the globally recognised Vatican City – the global epicentre of the Catholic religion. St Peters Basilica dominates the skyline and Tuscan colonnades form a ring around the adjoining square. The flamboyant Swiss Guard continue their long-standing protection of the Pope around the grounds. Inside, the architecture includes the dazzling Sistine Chapel – home to Michaelangelo’s famous Renaissance fresco. (Tickets can also be booked online to visit – here and early mornings are best where possible to avoid the biggest of the crowds).
With all of the above, Rome is often described as the world’s largest open air museum. There is so much to see and do a few days doesn’t do the city justice. However, it does allow the surface to be scratched in advance of future visits.