Rome is one of the oldest cities in the world with a history of over 2500 years. It was once the center of the Roman Empire and has been a center of politics and culture ever since it developed. During its time, more and more monuments and other impressive buildings have been created, some of which you can still see today. There’s a lot to see and a lot to do in Rome so here’s a list of things to do when you’re in Rome.
1.Colosseum
The most important highlight of Rome is probably the Colosseum. This massive building was built between 70 and 80 AD and it used to hold 80.000 spectators! They built this impressive structure in order to hold games, gladiator tournaments and other kinds of entertainment there.
You can find the Colosseum south west of the train station, which makes it easily accessible. Once you arrive at the Colosseum, you could take photos from the outside, but it’s even better to actually enter the Colosseum. Here, you can walk around and admire the building from the inside. Make sure you get tickets on beforehand though, as it can be quite crowded.
2.The Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the best preserved buildings of ancient Rome. It was constructed in 118 AD by the emperor of that time called Hadrian. This building wasn’t the first in that spot though, as Hadrian constructed the Pantheon on top of the site where Agrippa used to have a temple. Not only is the inside impressive, but the front of the Pantheon as well as it is made with a rectangular porch and huge columns.
On the triangular pediment you can even see a dedication to Agrippa in Latin. Inside the Pantheon, you can see a magnificent dome with different stone patterns everywhere. The most impressive part of the inside, however, is the central coffer, through which the light can fall. This way, you have a lot of natural light inside this massive building. You can find the Pantheon in the center of Rome on one of its many piazzas called Piazza della Rotonda.
3.St Peter’s Square
As you probably know, you can actually find another country within Rome itself. This small country is called The Vatican and it’s one of the most important religious places in the entire world. At the front of The Vatican, you can find St. Peter’s Square. Although it’s called a square, it’s actually a really large circle that’s framed by two colonnades. On these columns, you can find statues of various important figures for the catholic faith and some of the previous popes.
At the center of St. Peter’s Square, you can find an obelisk that was taken from Nero’s Circus. You can also find the St. Peter’s Basilica at this square with chairs in front of it. These chairs are used for papal ceremonies. St. Peter’s Square is usually crowded, with many people hoping to see the Pope for even a split second.
4.Trevi Fountain
If you like looking at fountains, you will love looking at the Trevi Fountain. This fountain is not like most other fountains, as it is luxuriously decorated and an impressive sculpture in itself. The fountain was constructed in 1762 by a man named Nicola Salvi. He built this fountain to pay tribute to the Roman God Oceanus.
In the Trevi Fountain, you can see Oceanus as well on a chariot, which is pulled by Tritons that are taming Hippocamps. The detail in the sculptures is simply impressive and you can definitely consider this fountain a true work of art. While you’re there, you should consider a famous tradition of the fountain as well. People throw coins in the water over their shoulder. This should bring you good luck, although there’s barely any space left to throw it between all of the tourists.
5.Roman Forum
Although Italy counts many ruins, one of the most famous and most important of them is the Roman Forum in Rome. This is an ancient site with the ruins of what once was the center of Rome. Here, the people would gather every day for both public as well as political activities. On the Roman Forum, you can find numerous temples, squares and impressive arches. Some of the temples you can find here are those of Saturn, Titus and Vesta. Out of all the arches, the Arch of Severus is the most impressive and one you will definitely want to take another look at.
Even though the structures, obviously, aren’t in the same state anymore as they were during the time of the Roman Empire, the largest part of them are still standing. The Roman Forum is located next to the Colosseum and requires its visitors to buy tickets as well. Therefor, it’s a smart idea to combine these two visits, although you have to make sure to give yourself enough time to thoroughly enjoy both of these amazing highlights.
