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Rome, the Eternal City
Almost since its beginnings Rome has fascinated mankind
unlike any other city. For millennia, visitors to la città eterna
have been captivated by its gorgeous monuments, cultural
delights and timeless beauty. Here are some of
Rome’s most beautiful sites which will make your days in
Rome not only a professional, but also an incomparable
cultural experience.
The Colosseum
Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, the Colosseum
was built by Vespasian in AD 72. With a capacity of approximately
50.000 spectators it was the largest amphitheatre of
antiquity.
The Pantheon
Originally built as a temple to the seven deities of the seven
planets, the Pantheon became a Christian church in the 7 th century
AD. It is one of the best preserved ancient monuments in
Rome.
The Roman Forum
was the central area for commerce, administration, justice, cult
and socializing around which ancient Rome developed. It comprises
the remains of numerous temples, basilicas and arches.
The Sistine Chapel
The rectangular chapel designed by Baccio Pontelli and built in
the late 1400s is most famous for Michelangelo’s frescoes.
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The Vatican
Although not technically part of Italy, no trip to Rome would
be complete without a visit to the Vatican. The tiny sovereign
state headed by the Pope boasts some of the world’s most
important architectural feats, including St. Peter’s Basilica and
the Sistine Chapel.
St. Peter’s Basilica
Built on top of the burial site of St. Peter the apostle, it is considered
one of the holiest sites in Christianity. Its 5.7 acres of
floor space provide enough room for more than 60,000 people.
The cathedral’s inside is decorated with innumerable masterpieces,
such as Michelangelo’s Pietà.
Trevi Fountain
marks the end of the aqua virgo, one of Rome’s ancient aqueducts.
Nicolò Salvi’s baroque masterpiece depicting Neptune
and the taming of the waters and is an extremely popular
meeting spot for tourists. Legend has it that those who throw a
coin into the fountain will return to Rome one day.
Castel Sant’Angelo
The cylindrical building overlooking the Tiber River was originally
built as a mausoleum. Later it served as a castle and
fortress for more than 1,000 years. Today it houses a museum
and is considered one of Rome’s most important medieval
buildings.