Must see places in Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, is full of history, art, and culture. You can’t miss the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and St. Peter’s Basilica. But there’s so much more to see in this lively city. From ancient ruins to Renaissance buildings, Rome offers many experiences for curious travelers¹. Here you will find details about the must-see places in Rome.

But where do you start? How can you find Rome’s hidden treasures? This guide will show you the best places in Rome. We’ll share the stories and beauty of each spot¹.

Key Takeaways

• Explore the iconic landmarks of Rome, from the Colosseum to St. Peter’s Basilica
• Discover hidden gems, such as the Borghese Gallery and the Catacombs of San Callisto
• Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture of the Eternal City
• Experience the vibrant culture and delectable cuisine that make Rome a truly unforgettable destination
• Gain insider tips and insights to make the most of your Rome adventure

The Iconic Colosseum

The Colosseum rises above Rome’s heart, showing the ancient Roman Empire’s grandeur and power. It’s the² top spot in Rome, famous for its epic battles and thrilling shows. These events drew up to 65,000 spectators².

Rome’s Ancient Amphitheater

Started by Emperor Vespasian in 72 C.E. and finished by his son Titus in 80 C.E., the Colosseum was built in eight years³. Its outer ring was 159 feet tall, with 80 archways and 76 entrances for the public³. Today, visitors can see the stands, arena, and underground areas of this wonder.

The Colosseum was more than just a building; it was a key part of history. Gladiators and wild animals fought in the arena, thrilling the Roman crowds³. The Ludus Magnus, Rome’s main gladiator school, had tunnels to the Colosseum, adding to the drama³. Now, the Colosseum reminds us of Rome’s lasting impact, attracting visitors worldwide.

“The Colosseum stands as a testament to the grandeur and power of the ancient Roman Empire, captivating visitors with its rich history and architectural marvel.”

²³

The Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain, the most famous fountain in Rome, is a stunning architectural wonder. It has amazed visitors for centuries. Located in the city’s heart, this 18th-century Baroque masterpiece is a key stop on any Rome tour⁴.

Giovanni Pannini, a famous architect, designed the Trevi Fountain. It was finished in 1762. Today, it shows Rome’s rich history and lasting artistic impact⁴. The fountain is huge, standing over 85 feet tall and 65 feet wide. At its center is Neptune, the sea god⁴.

Throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain is a famous tradition. It’s believed to ensure you’ll return to Rome one day⁵. Every day, 3,000 euros worth of coins are pulled out and given to charity⁴.

The Trevi Fountain is a big draw, with 1,200 people visiting every hour. But, it’s carefully watched to keep it beautiful and safe⁴. Swimming, eating, or sitting on the fountain is not allowed. Breaking these rules can cost you €240 to €450⁴.

There’s much to see around the Trevi Fountain. You can find different architectural styles, ancient Roman history, underground ruins, stunning art, and beautiful churches⁶. Nearby, the Pantheon is a 1st-century AD marvel with the world’s largest unreinforced cement dome⁴⁶.

Visiting the Trevi Fountain at night is unforgettable. You can take amazing photos, enjoy gelato, or soak in the lively atmosphere⁵.

“Throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain is a tradition that must be experienced to truly understand the magic of Rome.”

The Pantheon

Ancient Roman Engineering Marvel

In the heart of Rome, the Pantheon shows the ancient Romans’ skill in building⁷. It was built in 125 AD and is the only complete ancient building left in Rome⁷. Its dome is shaped like a half-sphere and is as tall as the building itself⁷.

The oculus, a 27-foot hole at the dome’s top, is the only light source⁸. It connects the temple to the sky, symbolically⁸.

The Pantheon’s engineering is not just in its dome⁸. The front has an inscription from Marcus Agrippa, built around 27-25 BC⁸. But, Emperor Hadrian rebuilt it around 150 years later⁸.

The portico has 16 Corinthian columns, each 40 feet tall⁸. They came from Egypt and were brought to Rome through a complex process⁸. The bronze doors are nearly 24 feet tall and can be pushed open, showing the Romans’ advanced engineering⁸.

Now, the Pantheon is a famous spot for tourists and a church⁷. It’s where famous Italians like Raphael are buried⁷. The floor has beautiful patterns made of marbles, showing the ancient Romans’ artistry⁸.

The Pantheon’s fame as a marvel in architecture and engineering still draws people from everywhere⁹⁷⁸.

St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican

Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City is a must for anyone going to Rome. It’s the heart of the Catholic Church and the Pope’s home. This place is a wonder of architecture and art¹⁰.

When you walk in, you’ll see a beautiful mosaic by Giotto di Bordone from 1300 in the atrium¹⁰. Inside, the basilica’s size and beauty will amaze you. It’s filled with detailed work by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, finished between 1628 and 1639¹⁰.

The St. Peter’s Square outside is just as impressive. It has fountains by Maderno and Bernini from 1612 and 1677¹⁰. The Elliptical Square, built by Pope Sixtus V and finished by Pope Alexander VII in 1667, shows the Vatican’s skill in building¹⁰.

At St. Peter’s Basilica, you must see Michelangelo’s dome, which is 448.1 feet tall¹⁰. Also, touch the foot of St. Peter’s statue by Arnolfo di Cambio, made around 1245-1250, for a blessing¹⁰.

The Vatican Museums are also a must-see. They have a huge collection of art and the famous Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s frescoes¹¹. Millions of people visit each year, making it a top tourist spot¹².

Whether you’re a Catholic or just love art and history, visiting St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican is unforgettable. It’s a place that will leave you in awe of its grandeur and importance¹⁰¹¹¹².

The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Walking through the Roman Forum, I feel like I’ve traveled back in time. It’s filled with the remains of the ancient Roman Empire’s heart. The House of Augustus, on the Palatine Hill, was where Augustus lived¹³. The House of Livia, also on the Palatine Hill, has beautiful frescoes and mosaics from the Second Style¹³.

Exploring the archaeological park, I see old temples, arches, and market halls. These were once the Roman world’s center¹³. The Santa Maria Antiqua, an ancient Christian building, has rare frescoes from the 6th to 8th century¹³. The Imperial Ramp of Domitian, a massive ramp, connected the Palatine Hill to the Roman Forum¹³.

The Palatine Museum tells the story of this famous site. It has artifacts, sculptures, and artworks from different times¹³. The Temple of Romulus, built for Valerius Romulus, has original doors¹³. The Cryptoporticus of Nero, a 130-meter underground corridor, links parts of the palatial complex¹³.

Seeing the ruins, I’m amazed by the ancient Romans’ skill and creativity¹³. The Domus Transitoria, built by Nero, had gardens, fountains, and an art gallery¹³. The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill let us see the Roman Empire’s glory. They show us the wonders of ancient Rome¹³.

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is a standout square in Rome¹⁴, once a Roman athletics stadium in 1 AD¹⁴. Over time, it has become a lively public space. It was a bustling marketplace for centuries before moving to Campo de’ Fiori in 1869¹⁴.

Today, it’s a top spot for visitors, famous for its Baroque fountains and street performers¹⁴. The square’s highlight is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, or Fountain of the Four Rivers, by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1651¹⁵. It shows the four major rivers and the power of the papacy¹⁶.

Two more fountains, the Fontana del Moro and the Fontana del Nettuno, add to the beauty¹⁵. The Fontana del Moro, from the 17th century, shows a Moor battling a dolphin. The Fontana del Nettuno, from 1574, features Neptune and nymphs¹⁶.

The Baroque Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone is also a highlight¹⁵. It was built after the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, on the site of St. Agnes’ martyrdom in 300 AD¹⁶.

Piazza Navona buzzes with life, thanks to street performers and vendors¹⁵. Visitors can enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of this iconic spot¹⁴.

Visit Piazza Navona early to avoid crowds or later for a lively vibe¹⁴. This iconic square is a must-see in Rome¹⁴.

“Piazza Navona is one of the most beautiful and lively squares in Rome, with its stunning fountains, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere.”

Make sure to include Piazza Navona in your Rome itinerary¹⁴. Its history, fountains, and lively atmosphere will leave you with unforgettable memories¹⁴.

Must See Places in Rome: The Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna are a top spot for anyone visiting Rome¹⁷. They sit at the base of the French church ‘Trinita dei Monti’. From there, they lead down to the beautiful Piazza di Spagna and the famous Barcaccia Fountain by Pietro Bernini¹⁸.

These steps were built in the early 1700s and are now a key landmark in Rome¹⁸. From the top, you get a stunning view of the city. It’s a favorite place for photos and sightseeing¹⁸. The Trinita dei Monti church at the top has two bell towers and offers amazing views of Rome¹⁸.

The area around the steps is full of lovely cafes, fancy shops, and historic sites¹⁹. The Keats-Shelley Memorial House and the Borghese Gallery are close by. The Via dei Condotti, known for its luxury shops, is also nearby¹⁸.

Visiting the Spanish Steps is a must in Rome¹⁹. Their beautiful setting and rich history make for a unique Roman experience¹⁸.

Castel Sant’Angelo

The Castel Sant’Angelo, or the Castle of the Holy Angel, sits on the Tiber River in Rome²⁰. It has been standing for nearly 2,000 years. Originally built in the 2nd century as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, it has changed over time²⁰.

Today, it’s a museum that shows Rome’s rich history²⁰. Visitors can see art, artifacts, and architecture from different eras²⁰. The castle has six to seven levels, each with its own exhibits²⁰.

Castel Sant’Angelo has seen many changes. It was once a fortress, prison, and even a place for executions²⁰. In the 15th century, the popes made it their hideout and added Renaissance art²⁰.

It’s famous for its role in Dan Brown’s “Angels and Demons”²⁰. Exploring it is like stepping back in time²⁰. A visit can take about 3 hours, giving you a deep dive into Roman history²⁰.

Castel Sant’Angelo was built between 123 and 139 AD for Emperor Hadrian and his family²². It was later used by the pope as a fortress and castle in the 14th century²². Now, it’s a museum. Visitors should spend about 1-1.5 hours here, and there’s a self-guided app for more information²².

The castle shows what life was like for soldiers in the past with its cannons and cannonballs²². The Pope commissioned Bernini for the Sant’Angelo Bridge, but he only finished two angels²². It’s best to visit late in the afternoon or at sunset. The top cafe offers a place to relax and enjoy a cappuccino with a view²².

For a better visit, use the Roma Pass for discounts, wear comfortable shoes, and bring a camera²². Also, check out the Vatican Museum and St. Peter’s Basilica before coming here²².

Trastevere Neighborhood

The Trastevere neighborhood is on the other side of the Tiber River in Rome²³. It’s been a part of the city since Emperor Augustus’ time²³. Here, you can see the real life of locals²³.

Trastevere is known for its narrow streets, old houses, and fun nightlife²³. It’s close to the Colosseum and Rome’s center, just a 15-minute walk²⁴. You can also get there by bus in 15 minutes from Termini Station²⁴.

The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is a highlight, the oldest church in Rome²³. Don’t miss the Villa Farnesina either, famous for Raphael’s work²³.

For a taste of local life, visit Piazza di San Cosimato. It has a market with unique foods and a playground²⁵. The nightlife is also famous, with places like Freni e Frizione and VinAllegro²⁵.

Trastevere’s streets and landmarks are a nice break from the city’s hustle²³. It’s perfect for those wanting a true Roman experience²³.

“Trastevere is a typical Italian neighborhood where you can get lost in a maze of narrow streets, see old medieval houses, and go for a lively night out in the area’s many restaurants and bars.”

The Borghese Gallery

Masterpieces in a Stunning Setting

The Borghese Gallery is in the Villa Borghese park in Rome. It was built in the early 17th century for Cardinal Scipione Borghese. Today, it’s home to a world-class art collection²⁶.

Art lovers flock to the Borghese Gallery, with 500,000 visitors each year²⁶. You’ll see works by Caravaggio, Rubens, Bernini, and Leonardo da Vinci. The beautiful gardens add to the experience²⁶.

Getting into the Borghese Gallery needs planning. It’s limited to keep it peaceful. Tickets are available online, with prices based on age and where you’re from²⁶. The evening entry is cheaper, at 8€²⁶.

The gallery has more Caravaggio works than any other museum²⁶. His art tells powerful stories and showcases his skill²⁷.

The gallery also has art from the Renaissance to the Baroque. You’ll see Raphael’s “Dama con Liocorno” and Bernini’s “Apollo and Daphne” sculpture. Caravaggio’s “David with the Head of Goliath” is another highlight²⁷.

Visiting the Borghese Gallery is a cultural journey. It’s a place where art and architecture come alive²⁶. Whether you love art or just want to see something special, the Borghese Gallery is a must-see in Rome²⁶.

The Appian Way and Catacombs

The Appian Way (or Via Appia Antica) is one of the oldest roads in Rome. It was built in 312 BC for troops and goods to reach Brindisi in southeast Italy²⁸²⁹. Now, it’s a top spot for tourists to see Rome’s history.

Visitors can see places like the Catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano. There are also basilicas and tombs along the way²⁸. The part of the Appian Way near Rome is in the Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica, a park for nature and history²⁸.

• The Appian Way is great for walking and bike tours. It lets you see ancient Rome’s history and buildings²⁸.
• The Catacombs of San Callisto is a key Roman catacomb along the Appian Way²⁸.
• You can rent bikes at the visitor center. This makes it easy to explore the Appian Way at your own speed²⁸.

Exploring the Appian Way and the Roman catacombs is a thrilling trip back in time²⁸²⁹. You can walk, bike, or take a guided tour. The Appian Way and its sights offer a memorable experience³⁰.

“The Appian Way was called the ‘Queen of Roads’ and was Europe’s first super highway.”²⁹

Piazza del Popolo

Piazza del Popolo is the largest square in Rome³¹. It’s a stunning neo-classical masterpiece. It welcomes visitors from the north through the Porta del Popolo, the city gate at the square’s northern end³².

In the center stands an Egyptian obelisk, one of Rome’s 13 obelisks. The Lateran Obelisk is the largest³¹. Two neoclassical churches, Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, surround it. They create a beautiful scene³².

Visitors can climb the steps to Pincio Hill for a panoramic view. This view shows the square and landmarks like the Borghese Gardens. The Borghese Gallery is famous³¹.

The square has changed over the years. Architect Giuseppe Valadier redesigned it in the 19th century. He added the Fountain of the Lions, making it even more grand³².

There’s much to see near Piazza del Popolo. The Church of Santa Maria del Popolo has art by Caravaggio³². The Flaminio Obelisk, from 1300 B.C., is also here. It was brought by Augustus and placed by Pope Sixtus V³².

Piazza del Popolo is a key spot in Rome. It’s full of history, architecture, and views. A visit here is essential for anyone in Rome³².

“Piazza del Popolo is one of my favorite squares in Rome, with its grand architecture, historic significance, and breathtaking views. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Eternal City.” –³³

Piazza del Popolo is a must-see in Rome. It has a rich history, stunning architecture, and amazing views. From the Egyptian obelisk to the great dining spots, it’s an unforgettable experience³²³³.

The Crypt of the Capuchin Monks

Beneath the church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini in Rome lies a unique sight – the crypt of the Capuchin Monks³⁴. This complex was built between 1626 and 1631. The Capuchins brought bones of 3,700 defunct friars to decorate the crypt³⁴.

Bones and Skulls Decorate the Crypt

The Capuchin crypt is a remarkable ossuary chapel. It features bones and skulls of former Capuchin monks in intricate designs³⁴. The Capuchin order was founded in 1528 for a simpler, more humble life³⁴.

The bone crypt in Rome has six separate chapels. Each is decorated with different bones from the skeletons of 3,700 friars³⁴.

The crypt has a clock without hands and a Grim-Reaper-inspired skeleton. The largest chamber shows complete skeletons of Capuchin friars in niches³⁴. It also includes a crypt of pelvises, a crypt of skulls, and a chamber depicting the Resurrection of Lazarus³⁴.

The Capuchin Crypt in Rome is a unique destination. It offers a glimpse into the monastic life and death of the Capuchin order³⁵. The crypt contains the skeletal remains of over 3,700 Capuchin friars, arranged in intricate designs³⁵.

Visitors can explore the crypt and adjacent museum. The museum houses religious artifacts, artworks, and relics related to the Capuchins³⁵.

Whether you’re fascinated by the macabre or seeking a deeper understanding of Rome’s history and culture, the Crypt of the Capuchin Monks is a must-visit³⁴³⁵.

Galleria Borghese

The Galleria Borghese is a top spot for art lovers in Rome. It’s nestled in the beautiful Villa Borghese gardens. Here, you can see amazing art from the Renaissance and Baroque periods³⁶.

This museum is special because it only lets 270 visitors in at a time. This means you get a quiet, up-close look at the art, unlike other busy places in Rome³⁶.

Inside, you’ll find works by famous artists like Caravaggio. His Sick Bacchus is just one of the many pieces you can see³⁶. Don’t miss Boy with a Basket of Fruit by Caravaggio in Room VII³⁶.

The Villa Borghese gardens are a peaceful oasis. They’re huge and beautiful, and were once home to animals like peacocks³⁶.

The Borghese family built many landmarks in Rome, including this gallery and the Villa Borghese³⁶. Today, the Galleria Borghese is hard to get into, but it’s worth it³⁶.

The Galleria Borghese is open Tuesday to Sunday. It’s closed on Mondays, December 25, and January 1. It’s also open on May 1 and Easter Sunday³⁷.

Visitors can enter at hourly times, with the last entry at 5:45 PM for a short visit. On Fridays and Saturdays, you can stay longer until 8:45 PM³⁷.

The Borghese Gallery limits visitors to 360 people. This makes it less crowded than other places in Rome, like the Vatican Museums³⁷. You’ll see amazing works by artists like Raphael, Bernini, and Caravaggio³⁷.

The Galleria Borghese opened to the public in 1903. It has many Bernini sculptures, like “Apollo and Daphne”. Tickets must be bought in advance online or by calling the gallery³⁸.

Whether you love art or just want to see something special, the Galleria Borghese is unforgettable. Make sure to see the Borghese art collection and the Villa Borghese gardens in Rome.

Conclusion

Reflecting on my journey through rome travel guide, I’m amazed by Rome’s depth and richness. The best of rome Colosseum, which holds over 50,000 people³⁹, and the Trevi Fountain, where 3,000 euros are collected nightly for charity⁴⁰, have touched my heart and mind.

Rome’s mix of ancient history and modern life is captivating. I’ve seen the Pantheon’s 9-meter-wide oculus³⁹ and St. Peter’s Basilica’s grandeur. The Vatican, with 70,000 artworks, including 20,000 on display⁴⁰, is awe-inspiring. From the Roman Forum’s ruins to Trastevere’s charm, each part of Rome has its own story.

As I leave, rome sightseeing will always be special to me. The Eternal City has inspired me deeply. I look forward to returning and exploring more of its beauty and history.

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