Things To See In Rome
Rome is not only the capital of Italy but also the capital of the Lazio region. It has been a major human settlement for almost three millennia. Yes, you read right, three millennia meaning there are a million things to see, do, taste, or try out. As you start planning your trip, it can become overwhelming. There are hundreds of monuments to see and piazzas to enjoy, and more than one week is needed to see it all. With Rome, not even a lifetime is enough to explore it, but there is a lot you can see in one week. And here are things that should be on your to-see list.
The Colosseum
Yes, I know, it is obvious, but it needs to be on this list as it’s among the city’s icons. The Colosseum was constructed between 70-80 AD; believe it or not, at its peak, it could host 80 000 spectators. It is easily accessible by foot, but close by is also a metro station. However, when you are in Rome, you will waddle around, and somehow you will always end up in an alley or street that leads to the Colosseum.
The Pantheon
It is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings in the world and another icon of the city.
It was built in 118 AD by Emperor Hadrian. It’s located in the center of Rome on the Piazza della Rotonda and is easily accessible by foot.
Trevi Fountain
Probably the world’s most famous fountain and also among the biggest ones. Constructed in 1762 by Nicola Salvi, the fountain pays tribute to the Roman God Oceanus and has many more creatures displayed at his feet, but a penguin is missing. What a shame. It’s lavishly decorated, and thousands of people visit it daily.
Roman Forum
An ancient site that consists of many ruins that were once the center of Roman public and political life. Let’s be honest here for a second; it was also the center of all gossip. It was the place to learn who bought a new horse, house, and more. Many temples still stand, or at least partially, and you can imagine what the Forum looked like at its peak. Be prepared to waddle a lot, as the ruins stand on an extensive area.
Spanish Steps
Squeezed in between the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza Trinita dei Monti, you will find the famous 135 steps. At the top is a large crucifix obelisk with inscriptions that probably hold some ancient spells. The steps are fascinating because they are in the gap and slope between the two mentioned squares, which are pretty popular. But then again, what is not popular in Rome?
Castle Saint Angelo
Known also under the name of the Mausoleum of Hadrian, as this was the initial intention when building it. It is a circular-shaped fort and, in the past, was the tallest building in Rome. What’s also interesting is that it’s connected to St. Peter’s Basilica with an underground tunnel. Apart from being another icon in the city, it is worth visiting for its beautiful view over Rome.
Vatican City State
You don’t get to experience a state within a state every day. Vatican City is a city-state surrounded by Rome. It is the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and home to the Pope. It offers a magnificent square, museums, and more. Already the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica is a sight of its own.
These are our top five things you have to have on your to-see list when in Rome. Of course, as you waddle around, you will come across thousands of squares (piazzas), each with a specific vibe. Then there are the many alleys where you will feel you have stepped into another world, especially surrounded by centuries-old buildings.
No matter what ends up on your list, remember to enjoy Rome, don’t just rush from one icon to another. Stop and breathe in for a moment and only then waddle on.
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