We’ve all heard the saying “Rome wasn’t built in a day”, but do we really understand why that holds so true?
These five must-see sites are a testament to the cultural, political, and architectural significance of Rome, adding meaning to the famous phrase about this Eternal City.
#1 The Ancient Forums
Starting in Centro Storico - or the historic heart of the city - you’ll find Rome’s Imperial Forums: The Roman Forum, Trajan’s Column and Markets, and Palatine Hill. These forums were once the epicenter of the Western World’s politics and religion, even though today they’re more of a field of ruins and foundations.
That said, even in their fragmented state these forum ruins are a testament to Roman and all of Western Civilization. Feel history come alive as you walk along the Sacred Way (Via Sacra) where prisoners and soldiers once marched, or through the Senate House like a true politician of Ancient Rome. What’s more, nearby you’ll find the famous Colosseum, Circus Maximus, and the Arch of Constantine. The landmarks never stop!
#2 Piazza del Campidoglio and The Colosseum
Piazza del Campidoglio, otherwise known as the head of the world, or caput mundi, is a must-see stop on your next visit to Rome; It is on this famous hilltop that Romulus allegedly killed his brother Remus, and the two twins are represented - in a much happier scenario - by a bronze statue at this site. Designed by Michelangelo in 1536, this piazza is said to embody the essence of Renaissance architecture, combined with elements of the ancient city.
As you walk away from the piazza and through the Roman Forum, you’ll find yourself at the Colosseum - perhaps one of the most well-known sites in the modern and ancient world. Originally the site for gladiator combat, today’s Colosseum acts as more of an all-encompassing symbol of Rome - with plays, concerts, and tours attracting visitors from all over the world year after year.
#3 Piazza Navona and its Fountains
Piazza Navona is the entertaining, lively, and exquisite plaza of Rome. Perfect for grabbing a gelato to go, sipping a Negroni or Spritz, or taking a moment to sit and watch locals and visitors stroll by, Piazza Navona is a can’t-miss on your trip to Rome. Hard to believe it once acted as an athletic stadium, Piazza Navona is filled with terra-cotta and stucco buildings, baroque architecture, and an ornately beautiful series of fountains in the center; These fountains, named the “Fountain of the Four Rivers”, were designed by Bernini and represent the Danube, Nile, Ganges, and the Rio de la Plata. The fountains twist and writhe, and are designed to make you stare in awe.
Pro tip: Visit this Piazza Navona during the Christmas holiday season to experience a variety of holiday stalls, and get a true taste of Italian Christmas!
#4 The Spanish Steps
At the heart of Rome’s fashion-forward shopping area, the Spanish Steps are an essential stop on your next trip to Rome. Nestled in an unassuming street between terra-cotta buildings, these grand steps are a social hot spot for locals and visits. While it is illegal to picnic or loiter on the steps, you can grab a cocktail (might we suggest an Aperol Spritz) to-go and make your way to the top of the stairs. Once at the top, take in the scene around and below you to see young locals chatting with friends, or the solo fashionista strolling by.
We recommend a visit in the Fall for smaller crowds, or Spring, when beautiful azaleas line the steps. Host to more fountains by the famous Bernini (artist of Piazza Navona’s fountains), walking these steps will have you feeling like you are on top of a grand old world.
#5 The Pantheon
Considered the most well-preserved ancient structure in Rome, the Pantheon is a round temple dedicated to all of the Roman gods. Built with a perfect spherical dome, and walls over 20 feet thick, the Pantheon is an architectural masterpiece. Visit during the rare hours where sunlight spills through the center of the dome, creating a spotlight - fun fact - the Roman Emperor Hadrian only entered the Pantheon when sunlight was cast over the entrance.
Among many others, this temple is a burial site of the famous painter Raphael, and Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of Italy. Before or after a visit inside, be sure to take a moment outside of the Pantheon to sit, look, and appreciate the structure in front of you. Sure to tug at your historical and cultural heartstrings, the Pantheon is a must-see.
Ready to explore Rome and its world-famous sites? Schedule your FREE Travel Consultation and the ELx Travel team will make sure these hot-spots are on your itinerary!