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Once the capital of the Holy Roman Empire, Rome is abundant with monuments and landmarks of great historical significance. The seemingly endless number of important sights scattered across the city offers visitors a glimpse into the past.
Here, our personal travel managers offer their recommendations for your next tour of Italy’s famed capital.
Colosseum
The Colosseum remains as much an icon of this great Italian city today as it did during the height of the Roman Empire.
Commissioned between A.D. 70-72 by Emperor Vespasian, the impressive arena stands at nearly 2,000 years old.
Once home to fierce gladiatorial games and other exhibitions of combat, it continues to be one of the most visited tourist attractions in Italy welcoming 6.2 million visitors in 2015.
Where: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Rome
Pantheon
As an impressively preserved relic of ancient Rome, the Pantheon is a remarkable example of the architectural accomplishments of the Empire.
Commissioned by Marcus Agrippa during the reign of Augustus, the church is considered by ancient historians to be one of the most influential buildings in the Western World due to its sheer size and architecture.
With an impressive 43-metre high dome, the Pantheon has remained in continuous use since its construction some 2,000 years ago.
Where: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome
Roman Forum
Despite requiring a little imagination, the remnants of the Roman Forum (plaza) and its surrounding buildings provide an insight into the ancient world. Historically, this was the Roman Empire’s masterpiece with the once-elaborate quarter comprised of grand temples and basilicas.
Today, the ruins found here are accompanied by informative signs to provide plenty of context to your imagination for what once was. Guided-tours can also help you piece together the fragmented puzzle that is the forum.
Where: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, Rome
Basilica of St John Lateran
The Basilica of St John Lateran is Rome’s official cathedral and considered to be the oldest church in the western world as it was constructed during Pope Melchiade’s reign between AD 311 – 314. This ancient church was the residence for Popes, until 1377 when it was moved to the Vatican.
Like many Roman churches, the interior is carved with an overwhelming attention to detail that art and architect devotees alike will find fascinating.
Where: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 4, Rome
St Peter’s Basilica
Although technically located in Vatican City (a walled state within the city of Rome), St Peter’s Basilica should also be on your ‘hit list’ when visiting Rome. Underneath the basilica you’ll find Saint Peter’s Tomb as well as the burial places of kings, queens and Popes from times past. For this reason the landmark is considered by many to be the zeitgeist of Catholicism.
This spectacular example of Renaissance architecture is one of the largest churches in the world and home to some of Italy’s famed artworks including the Pietà by Michelangelo. And of course don’t forget one of Michelangelo’s most famous works – the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel – located right next to the basilica.
Where: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
If you would like to know more about adventuring back in time to ancient Rome, get in touch with your personal travel manager or find one through this link.
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