With so many icons of Roman History and Christianity faith in a single city, exploring Rome is not only fun but a huge challenge to accomplish. You may have a special interest in exploring and traveling to peculiar historical places, but in Rome, some world-recognized sites have almost become a ritual to be seen in the vicinity.
Rome is a huge town with so many attractions that you need a lot of time to explore its wonders. We suggest you bifurcate your days to maintain interest and learn more about what you see.
The top 10 tourist attractions for Rome are listed here for your guidance and knowledge.
The Roman Colosseum and Arch of Constantine
The Flavian Amphitheatre in Rome holds the same value as the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The Colosseum is the largest antique structure left by Romans, and it still provides a model for modern sports.
Vespasian began constructing in 72 AD, and his son Titus added height to the design, making it ready for the games held in 80 AD. This Roman masterpiece was utilized for performances, festivals, games, and circuses.
The arch of Constantine, just next to the Colosseum, was erected by a senator to honor the emperor as the liberator of the city and bringer of peace after the battle of Milvian Bridge.
Vatican City
Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world, covering only half a square mile bounded by Vatican Walls. This small yet compact space includes the Palace of the Vatican and Gardens, St. Peter’s Square, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
St. Peter’s Basilica has Michelangelo’s masterpiece, Pietà, statues, and altars by Bernini and others inside it.
The Vatican Palace has the Raphael Rooms, the Vatican Apostolic Library, the Borgia Apartments, and several other museums that have almost everything from papal coaches to 20th-century art.
The Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the best preserved structures of ancient Rome. It has been intact for almost 2000 years and was rebuilt by Roman builders as the monument suffered extensive damage caused by a fire in 80 AD. The 43 meter dome hangs without any sign of support, and the 9 meter door acting as the only light source are the highlights most admired by visitors.
Castel Sant’Angelo National Museum
Castel Sant’Angelo is a huge drum-shaped monument overlooking the Tiber river near the Vatican. In the past it was used as a papal residence and fortress; now, it’s a national museum.
You can reach Castel Sant’Angelo across a pedestrian bridge lined with statues of angels. The bridge ascends on a spiral ramp to Castel’s five floors. You will find prison cells at various levels, artifacts, and immensely decorated papal apartments. Breathtaking views of the city can be seen from the terrace.
Roman Forum
Strolling through the Roman Forum in the heart of a modern city takes you centuries back amongst the ancient Romans.
Today, the Forum is of fallen columns, standing rigid structures, triumphal arches, and the remains of once strong defensive walls. It remained the heart of Roman social and cultural life, where courts, markets, and congregations once echoed with voices of vendors and time passers.
During the 17th-century, most of the fallen structures were removed and used to construct churches and fortresses. It was not until the 18th-century that ancient buildings were excavated from ten meters of earth and rubble for preservation.
Trevi Fountain
Trevi Fountain is a 17th-century masterpiece that has become one of Rome’s most popular travel destinations. It was constructed for Pope Clement XII in the 18th-century along the rear wall of the Palace.
The fountain is fed by Agrippa’s aqueduct, which once brought water to the Roman Baths. The artwork of the fountain shows the Greek Titan Oceanus along with horses, shells, and tritons.
Roman lovers throw a coin in the fountain, believing that they’ll return to Rome again soon. The water always shimmers with the heap of coins at the fountain’s base.
Victor Emmanuel II Monument
The Victor Emmanuel II monument, also known as Vittoriano, is considered one of the national symbols of Italy. The memorial was built between 1885 and 1935 in memory of King Victor Emmanuel II, who was responsible for unifying Italy.
This huge white structure was built like a forum, an agora having three distinct levels connected by symmetrical stairways. The metallic chariots on the rooftop, the victorious king on the highest structure in front of the main building, and the pillars of the upper level are worth visiting. A lift inside will take you to the top of the building where you can enjoy a 360 degrees view of Rome.
Centro Storico & the Spanish Steps
Centro Storico is a historic place in Rome with many old cathedrals full of relics, palaces, and sparkling squares. Piazza Navona, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, and the Trevi Fountain are a few of the most visited places. Visitors cannot stop roaming from one street to another and admiring the less recognized churches’ beauty.
At the base of the stairs of Spanish Steps, you will reach Piazza di Spagna. It’s a place where one can spend a whole day exploring, shopping, and dining at nearby traditional restaurants.
Santa Maria Maggiore
If you love visiting churches, Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the most attractive and majestic churches in Rome.
Existing since the tenure of 4th-century Pope Liberius, he dreamt of Virgin Mary instructing him to build this church. 40 marble columns and four granite pillars separate the three 86 meters isles inside the church. The upper walls are decorated with 4th-century mosaics, and the floor is adorned with colorful stones fixed in the 12th century style.
Besides engulfing an important history, Santa Maria Maggiore is among the important pilgrimage places.
Palatine Hill
Palatine Hill is strategically constructed 50 meters above the Tiber River level and is one of the famous “Seven Hills of Rome.” Rock cuttings near the temple show signs of the 9th century. However, the aristocratic families later chose the area for their palaces and gardens. Farnese Gardens is the most seen spot on the hill, housing park areas, lush lawns, pavilions, flowerbeds, trees, and fountains ideal for a leisure stroll.
When you visit Palatine Hill, the House of Livia (Augustus’ wife), Cryptoporticus, Domus Flavia, and the House of Augustus are must-see areas.
