Rome
The one thing you cannot escape from in Rome is history. This exciting metropolis oozes with it. But neither will you escape the hectic vibrancy of the place, with its anarchic traffic, its noise, its piazzas, its fountains, its fabulous restaurants and all the other idiosyncrasies that make Rome quite simply one of the most remarkable cities in the world. Whether it's Etruscan tombs, Republican meeting rooms, early-Christian churches, Renaissance palaces, baroque basilicas, the Vatican or the great swathe of artefacts left by the Roman Empire, the sense of history that Rome provides is all embracing. It's a bustling city in which a great deal of life takes place outdoors; people mix, for instance, in the piazzas around parliament, where you might see politicians and journalists chatting with the man sweeping the streets, or pacing up and down outside the bar in Via Uffici del Vicario, avidly talking into their mobile phones. Whether it's history, or humanity, Rome is quite simply a feast for the eyes. Away from the Classical sights, districts like Trastevere and the former Jewish Ghetto reveals a different side to Rome, of narrow medieval cobbled streets, authentic Roman trattories, cafes and neighbourhood atmosphere. The glorious parkland around Villa Borghese offers a quiet retreat from the city; whilst popular excursions from Rome, such as Via Appia to the catacombs, Ostia Antica and Tivoli, are all within easy reach.
Local Places of Interest and Activities
The Vatican City - This tiny, independent city was founded in AD 90, when the first monument was built on what was believed to be the site of St Peter's martyrdom. In the fourth century the emperor Constantine built a basilica over the tomb. And then, after a series of invasions, Pope Leo IV encircled the area with an imposing 12-metre wall, which expanded over the centuries to surround more land. Confined behind the wall after the Italian Unification of 1870, and acting as an independent state since 1929, the Vatican leads a separate existence from the rest of Rome. Because of that, its main sights can, and do, observe a strict dress code, you will not be allowed in if you wear clothing that bares your legs or shoulders. Credit cards aren't accepted, though the Vatican is a duty-free zone. Once inside, the first stop has to be St Peter's Basilica. The dome, when completed in 1590 to Michelangelo's detailed specifications, was the largest brick construction ever built. Visitors ascend via a cramped lift and then many stairs. At the top there are fabulous views of the Vatican Gardens, Bernini's piazza and the city beyond. Below the dome, Bernini's curlicued bronze canopy triumphs over the altar. Under the chapels, one containing Michelangelo's Pieta, are the tombs of recent popes, including John Paul II. Further down, the Necropolis is where many believe St Peter is buried. The Vatican Museums are so huge that there are four colour-coded itineraries to choose from. The basilica end of the route has the Sistine Chapel, containing Michelangelo's frescoes of the Creation and the Last Judgement, and luscious Renaissance works by Botticelli, Rosselli and Signorelli.
The Pantheon - The Pantheon is a beautiful spiritual structure and a must see. Commissioned by Marcus Agrippa it was rebuilt by Hadrian, who wanted to add a dome to it. It was then turned into a church early 7th century by Pope Boniface IV. The only source of light in the building is from the dome.
The Colosseum - Over 160 ft high with eighty entrances, the Coliseum could hold upwards of 50,000 spectators. Public events such as gladiator fights, mock naval battles and wild animal hunts were held at the Coliseum. During the staged fights as many as 10,000 people were killed. Fighters were slaves, prisoners or volunteers. Spectators saw persecuted Christians killed by lions. After 404 AD gladiatorial battles were no longer held, but animals such as lions, elephants, snakes and panthers continue to be massacred in the name of sport until the 6th century.
Roman Forum - The Roman Forum was the center of the economic, political and social life of the city. It includes the remains of the triumphal arch of Emperor Septimius Severus. Shakespeare's play after Julius Caesar's assassination, Mark Anthony spoke in this forum. Admission is free and there are tours of the area.
Piazza di Spagna - A theatrical square used for international meetings. It has a set of Spanish steps leading up to the entrance. One of the world’s most important fashion shows is held here. The square leads into the famous streets of the city of Rome and the exquisite boutiques and shops.
Trevi Fountain - Visit the beautiful fountain Fontana di Trevi. A most beautiful fountain it is said that if you throw a coin into it over you shoulder then you shall return to the city over and over again. Neptune supported by Tritons on either side statutes are in the center of the fountain.
Trastevere - Originally built to be like a warehouse to store goods in it was then later changed into very desirable residential quarter. There are still some well-preserved medieval houses and on some of the walls of the buildings you an see the grafitti the soldier wrote while they were on guard for the emperor.
Tours to take of the Surrounding Area
Tivoli - This excursion allows you to visit and compare two splendid villas from two different ages. The Villa Adriana dating back to Roman times and the Villa D'Este from the Renaissance period. Along the ancient Via Tiburtina, 30 km east of Rome.
Ancient Ostia - The ruins of the port of ancient Rome reveal more than any other monument in the capital, what everyday life must have been like in ancient times. Situated amongst cypresses and Mediterranean pine trees.
Roman Castles - Small medieval villages outside Rome. An opportunity to leave the capital and immerse yourself in the natural and artistic beauty of the Roman countryside.
Naples, Pompeii and Capri - Naples is not far from Rome. It can be reached easily by train or by car and once there you can go and explore also Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast or take a boat and go to Capri Island, the pearl of the Mediterranean sea, situated in an emerald and turquoise sea;
Florence - At just 90 minutes by train, you can go to Florence, a journey to discover the cradle of the Renaissance, where one's breaths art in the medieval streets, in the craftmen's workshops and in the Renaissance Palaces. Here the memories of the Medici family are united with the splendour of the works of illustrious artists as Michelangelo, Leonardo and Botticelli.
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