Rome is a city full of so much history and culture that it makes its way onto nearly everyone's bucket list. The challenge with Rome, and it's one that I've heard over and over again, is that there is so much to do and see within the boundaries of the city that planning a trip can get overwhelming so fast.
Note: As Rome prepares for and celebrates the 2025 Jubilee (a special holy year for both Vatican City and Rome), attractions may be closed or have limited hours. Contact your chosen attraction for up-to-date hours.
Rome is perfect if:
You want the ultimate city break.
You love exploring historical places.
You don't mind splurging a little.
In the picture below, I'll be sharing the underground map helping you understand how to navigate it easily and get around like a local. I'll also point out some of the top tourist attractions marked in the image, so whether you're planning your visit or just curious, you'll know exactly what to see and how to get there. Stay tuned for some useful travel tips and a closer look at the must-see spots around the city
Without further ado here are my top things to do on a city break to Rome:
1. Visit Palazzo Spada
Near Campo dei Fiori, one of Rome's essential piazzas, yet blissfully uncrowded Palazzo Spada is a striking historic palace built in the 16th century and redesigned by Roman architect Borromini a century later. Inside, there's a rich art collection with Renaissance and Baroque masters, and outside there's a peaceful courtyard where eight impressive colonnades create a mesmerising optical illusion. The palace itself is exquisitely Baroque, with elegant, perfect symmetry and ornate decorations. There are walls plastered in frescoes, immaculate stucco work and grand halls of opulent, gilded marble. Palazzo Spada houses an incredible art collection with paintings, sculptures and decorative works by artists including Titian and Caravaggio. Don't miss the Borromini Perspective Gallery, a masterclass in optical illusion where a corridor appears to be much longer than it actually is.
2. Visit Case Romane del Celio in Rome
Underground beneath the Basilica Santi Giovanni e Paolo, this heritage museum shows how Roman daily life has changed over the years. There are 20 rooms showing ancient Roman homes, shops and shrines. It's cheap to get into, relatively quiet even on weekends and one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Roman domestic architecture. The houses, which date back to the second and third centuries AD, were part of a larger residential complex and possibly belonged to a single aristocratic Roman family. One of the most remarkable features is the underground area known as the hypogeum – a subterranean complex of chambers and passageways. Visitors can explore several interconnected rooms, including reception areas (atria), living quarters (cubicula), kitchens and courtyards. The houses are decorated with colourful frescoes, intricate mosaics and marble floors, showcasing the opulence and artistic sophistication of the Roman elite.
3. Villa Farnesina
This Villa was the private residence of Agostino Chigi, one of the Renaissance's wealthiest men; he liked to showcase his wealth by hiring artists to paint elaborate frescoes on the walls and ceilings in his palace. That makes this a great place for Renaissance fans who want to take their time and see the art in situ without the crowds. Thanks to Raphael's emphasis on mythological themes, it's also an excellent place for kids who know about the Roman gods or want to!
4. Visit The Colosseum & Roman Forum
The number 1 attraction of Rome is the Colosseum; the large amphitheatre that housed 65,000 spectators in Roman days. Gladiators battled each other as well as wild animals in the Colosseum's arena, which is considered one of the seven modern wonders of the world. In the giant 'ruins' of the Colosseum, you can visit the stands, the arena and the underground spaces of the largest Roman amphitheatre.
The Colosseum stands as an iconic symbol of ancient Rome. Its grandeur and historical significance continue to captivate visitors from around the world.
The structure was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 72 C.E. after the area was used as a private palace for infamous (and unpopular) Emperor Nero. It was kind of a gesture to the people that the ruling class hadn't forgotten them.
Unfortunately, Vespasian didn't live to see it completed. Instead, it was completed under his son Titus in 80 C.E., taking just eight years to build (which is insane when you consider that some churches take several centuries).
Another misconception about the Colosseum that is mostly perpetuated by media like movies and TV shows is that the gladiatorial games were brutal, bloody, and murderous.
That's true to an extent, but our guide reminded us that, at the end of the day, the gladiators were highly skilled professionals AND they were the property of rich people who most definitely didn't want their assets killed.
It's more likely that the gladiatorial battles were similar to modern-day boxing matches than the bloodbaths you've seen Russell Crowe participate in.
It's massive, and it's an incredible feat of human ingenuity. I, Matt, have done the Colosseum four different times now, and each time my jaw hits the floor as I emerge onto the platform around the edge of the arena.
📌 Warning: Because of the huge number of visitors, it is always necessary to book Colosseum tickets in advance.
5. Visit The Trevi Fountain of Rome
The most famous fountain in the capital of Italy and perhaps even the world must be the 'Trevi Fountain', or Trevi Fountain. This baroque fountain, located on the Piazza di Trevi, was built in the 18th century and a must see at the list of 'best things to do in Rome'. The landmark and monument displays the god of the sea, Neptune on his chariot.
Coins into the Trevi fountain of Rome
It is tradition during your city trip Rome to throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain – keep your eyes closed and throw the coin into the water over your left shoulder using your right hand. According to legend, the person who throws the coin will one day return to Rome. Did you throw two coins into the fountain? You will find your love in Rome. Prefer to get married (or divorced)? Throw three coins into the famous fountain. Every week, the municipality of Rome cleans the Trevi Fountain and donates a large portion of the proceeds (1.4 million annually) to a charity that helps poor families
Tritons and Winged Horses
The fountain's design also incorporates tritons and winged horses, artistically symbolizing the fluctuating moods of the sea. The contrasting demeanor of the horses – one calm and the other agitated captures the unpredictable nature of water, adding depth to the fountain's narrative.
A hike through this huge nature reserve – the highest of Rome's 'seven hills' – makes for a great alternative to Villa Borghese with a fraction of the crowds and fantastic views over the city. The Monte Mario Natural Reserve spans around 100 hectares. Nature trails wind through canopies of oak trees, pines and cypress trees. There's a rich array of wildlife – look out for hawks, kestrels, foxes and hedgehogs. There are a number of different walking trails throughout the reserve, some more difficult (and steep) than others. It couldn't feel farther from one of the world's biggest cities.
7. Visit San Lorenzo District
This working-class neighbourhood near Termini station first gained international prominence when Soho House opened its Rome outpost last year. Over the past few years, it's evolved from a rough-around-the-edges student hangout into a decidedly bohemian district with street art, street food, lively bars, and cool fashion boutiques. To get the most out of the neighbourhood, visit in the late afternoon, when fashion boutiques like L'Anatra all'Arancia and La Maison de la Mode will still be open. Refuel with a coffee at the diminutive Giufà Libreria Caffè bookstore bar, then check out the street art around Via dei Sabelli and Scalo San Lorenzo. Stop by Blackmarket San Lorenzo for a pre-dinner cocktail and vegetarian small plates, or pop into Sanlollo for pizzas, bruschetta, and salted cod. Gelato San Lorenzo does some of the best organic ice cream in town. Still, don't bring your parents or your fussiest friends here; instead, come with someone up for a cheap-ish night out in a gritty but very cool neighbourhood.
8. Visit Villa Doria Pamphilj
Rome's largest public park is divided into manicured gardens, stretches of forest, pine groves, and bits of wild vegetation. There are wide open fields and intimate nooks for romantic picnics. It's a perfect destination for runners or cyclists who want to get in a few miles without the nuisances of car traffic and smog. Whether you visit for a stroll, a meal, or a workout, be sure to have a map. The place is huge, and some exits spit you out into residential neighbourhoods.
9. Capitoline Museums
Home to one of the finest collections of ancient sculpture in Rome (and, therefore, the world), the Capitoline Museums are – weirdly – rarely crowded. They attract school groups, local history and art buffs, and travellers, all of whom tend to meander through the museums' various buildings, two of which were designed by none other than Michelangelo. Thanks to its collection and its proximity to Rome's main archaeological attractions, it's a logical place to stop after visiting the Roman Forum and Colosseum.
Statue of Marcus AureliusIn the center of the square stands an equestrian statue of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. The statue is a replica; the original was replaced in 1981 and moved to the Capitoline Museums to protect it from the elements.
The bronze gilded statue only survived because it was thought to depict Emperor Constantine, the first Christian emperor. It wasn't until the fifteenth century that its real identity was discovered. If it had been discovered any sooner, the statue most likely would have been melted down, like so many ancient statues of 'pagans'.Fountain of the Goddess RomeThe grand fountain of Dea (Fountain of Rome's Goddess; Fountain of the Goddess) is on the top of the famous Capitoline Hill, right on Capitoline Square. It enhances the front of Palazzo Senatorio, a monumental backdrop in Piazza del Campidoglio.
10. Visit Vicus Caprarius
This museum takes you beneath the Trevi district, through an intricate maze of ancient vestiges, to the archaeological ruins of Vicus Caprarius (which roughly translates to "City of Water"), an old Roman apartment complex dating back to the first century AD. You get to see first-hand how the rich Romans lived, using their own aqueduct – the same one that feeds the Trevi fountain – for their running water. The entrance is unassuming; if you hadn't been told it was there, it would be easy to walk right past.
11. Testaccio Market
This market in one of Rome's most bustling central neighbourhoods has all the usual suspects: bread bakeries, produce stalls, fishmongers, butchers, and delis. You'll also find seasonal vegetables like artichokes or zucchini, cuts typical of the local cuisine like tripe and liver, and little chewy pizzas common to Roman bakeries. If you're looking for lunch (or to stock a picnic), hunt down takeaway stalls like the stellar Mordi e Vai, which serves Roman sandwiches near the Via B. Franklin exit. The stalls on the eastern side of the market mainly sell clothes, shoes, and housewares. There's even a hair salon, in case you're needing a touchup.
12. Visit Santa Maria in Trastevere
There are hundreds of churches in Rome, but Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the most breathtaking. Not only are the mosaics and gilded ceiling spectacular, the very skeletal structure of the church is mind-boggling. The columns that support the nave and separate the aisles are single, solid pieces of granite that were lugged across the river in the 12th century after being plundered from the 3rd-century Baths of Caracalla. The church will help you develop a taste for medieval Rome, a period often outshined by the Renaissance and Baroque eras.
13. Visit Santa Maria del Popolo
Santa Maria del Popolo is a Renaissance church at the edge of Piazza del Popolo and just within Rome's 3rd-century walls. It was decorated during Rome's most recent artistic peak, the 15th to 17th centuries, and is packed with masterpieces. The church is free, though some coins will come in handy for turning lights on in chapels. The place mostly draws visitors on the Caravaggio trail. Two canvases painted by that controversial and innovative artist hang in the chapel next to the main altar.
14. Visit Palazzo Massimo
Jesuits built the Palazzo Massimo's building itself in the late 19th century, and was only turned into a state-owned museum in 1980. It's next to Stazione Termini, Rome's busiest train station, yet few travellers make the trip to see the museum's masterpiece-packed halls. The collection is a mix of Classical sculpture, Imperial frescoes, and Hellenistic baroque-style statuary. After the Vatican Museums and Capitoline Museums, the Palazzo Massimo is a must for ancient art lovers.
15. Visit Palatine Hill
The Palatine Hill is a big, sprawling open-air museum. There are emperors' palaces, manicured gardens, medieval churches, and a terrace overlooking the Forum and beyond. The admission fee covers the Roman Forum and Colosseum, too, making it a pretty great deal. Although the Palatine has monuments from every major era in Rome's history, the real draw is a first-century palace built by Domitian, a mad emperor with a very serious architecture addiction.
16. MAXXI Rome
MAXXI is the kind of place you go to spend half a day, with no plans other than to take the entire place in. Designed by Zaha Hadid, this is Rome's museum for all things contemporary, with exhibitions spanning modern fashion, cinema, art, and architecture. Heck, it's worth visiting just to check out the building, a piece of art in itself. The labyrinthine space at MAXXI is astounding. It gets busy, but there's so much space that you wouldn't notice. Big, wide halls give way to rooms of different themes and sizes, resulting in five floors of non-stop, incredible artwork. Spaces range from performing arts to galleries with modern artworks to open cinemas. For some, this might feel a little incoherent, but it helps if you take it in as a whole rather than in different spaces.
17. Dine and drink on the Tiber River
The Ancient Romans transported goods along the Tiber River. Now, you get to navigate it on hop-on, hop-off tours that include cocktails and munchies. Stops include the old port of Trajan, the excavations of Ostia and the mouth of the Tiber in Fiumicino, on the coast. Supper cruises with live music depart at sunset. Alternatively, there are convenient hop-on, hop-off buses and guided bike tours along the Appia route lined with lavish villas and aqueducts.
18. Janiculum Hill
This is a leisurely stroll beginning in Trastevere and winding up via Garibaldi to the top of Janiculum Hill. The mood changes from urban at the beginning to monumental at the end; it's a bit of work, but rewards those willing to do it with a unique perspective on Roman history and some of the best views of the city. It's best to do the walk during the day or early in the morning if it's summer. If you're on a tight schedule, don't want to brave the hill in the heat, or just want to get a view, skip the hike and take a taxi directly to Piazzale Garibaldi.
19. Baths of Caracalla
The Baths of Caracalla were a massive public bathing complex built in the third century. Throughout the year, the site is open during the day for visitors to stroll through ruins that were so magnificent they inspired the Main Concourse at Grand Central Terminal. Each summer, the city of Rome's Opera Company performs at the Baths, using the towering brick ruins as a backdrop. The contrast of the ancient buildings, celebrated operas, and modern acoustics and lighting is stunning.
20. Ancient Pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala
Entering this ancient apothecary, the oldest in Europe, feels a little like stepping back in time. You enter through the ground floor of the building, which is now a functioning, modern pharmacy, before heading upstairs to the ancient iteration. Visitors are welcomed by a friar, who talks you through the various herbs, potions, unguents, balms, and oils that they used to heal the ancient Romans. He knows his stuff. Ask him to show you some of the original wooden furniture from the 18th century, and the instruments they used for weighing ingredients and making the medicines. Look out for the teriaca, a potion created and used by Romans as an antidote – ingredients include viper meat.
21. Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Over the centuries, the popes amassed an enormous art collection varying from Roman objects and religious relics to countless paintings. In the Vatican Museum you can visit 54 richly decorated rooms and view these art treasures of the Catholic church. The highlight for many visitors is likely to be the famous Sistine Chapel. The chapel with lovely frescos by Michelangelo that is mostly known as the site of conclave when a new pope is elected. Because it gets so many visitors, this attraction has by far the longest lines.
Arguably the most famous museum in the world makes its home in the collections of the Vatican. They show a whopping 20,000 pieces of art and culminate with the legendary Sistine Chapel, where the ceiling frescos bear the work of Michelangelo.
One contradiction that always pops up in the back of my mind when visiting huge, ornate churches has to do with the role of the church. Why, you might ask, does an organization that preaches the Bible, which unequivocally condemns rich people who do not give away their wealth, have such an ornate and over-the-top display of wealth Great question to ask the Pope, if you run into him (or her, in case you're reading this at a time when we've gotten a female pope). There are essentially two parts – the Vatican Museums (which include the Sistine Chapel) and St. Peter's Basilica. You should visit both, and you should try to be either on the first or last tour of the day.
I also say that it's well worth climbing the dome of St. Peter's Basilica for a nice view out over the square below and towards Rome's historic center, with its various churches and government buildings towering above the rest of the city.
A few tips for visiting the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica:
You must cover your knees and shoulders inside St. Peter's Basilica (it's a Catholic church after all), so leave the short shorts and tank tops at home for this day, otherwise they will not allow you to enter.
There is no photo or video allowed inside the Sistine Chapel. Yes, there are guards. No, you shouldn't try to sneak a photo. Be respectful!
Book your tickets well in advance to get the earliest entry possible – they do sell out.
It's a lot of walking, including stairs. I clocked ~10,000 steps along the way, including several sets of stairs. If you have mobility restrictions, that might be a lot of moving around.
22. The Historic Center of Rome
There is nothing more charming or atmospheric in Rome than walking through the city center.
However, that charm and atmosphere can be a little overwhelming in the afternoon and evening, when the narrow corridors snaking their way between the sights in the Centro Storico are crowded with people.
23. Piazza Navona
TPiazza Navona is probably our favorite of the stops on this walk through the city center. It's a huge, oval-shaped open space with a ton to see. The shape comes from the fact that the square exists on the site of an old stadium, and it became the place it is today in the 15th Century (which explains the architectural style you'll find here).
At the southern end of the square, there's a fountain – the Fountain of Moro – with some scantily-clad, well-muscled men frolicking in the water. At the northern end is the Fountain of Neptune, which is another excuse to have a bunch of muscled half-naked men in the water, I guess
24. Spanish Steps
Piazza di Spagna. Or, as you might know it, the Spanish Steps. At the base of the steps, you'll find a baroque fountain – Fontana della Barcaccia – which depicts a longboat in the center (the name translates to "fountain of the longboat"), which is an excellent foreground subject for the steps behind it.
Originally, there was supposed to be a statue of Louis XIV here, but it never came to be.
Walk up the stairs, making sure to turn around and admire the view.
If you're up for a little more walking and want an even better view, head along the path in Villa Medici over to Terrazza del Pincio for an excellent view of the Vatican, with Piazza del Popolo in the foreground.
25. Castel Sant'Angelo
The building was built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, and has been co-opted by various factions in Rome like the Catholic Church ever since (it still has the tomb of Hadrian though).
It's actually well worth the time and money. Possibly even worth it for the view of the Vatican alone from various points on the self-guided tour they have set up.
26. Wander Trastevere in the Afternoon / Evening
I love Trastevere at all times of day, but it really comes alive in the evening, when the people enjoying the many bars and restaurants in the area start spilling out into the streets. Find an outdoor spot to plop down and drink a spritz or two and get to people watching.
In terms of food, I enjoy Mama Eat (one of our favorite gluten free restaurants in Rome) and Fatamorgana Gelato (which came out on top of my gelato taste-test on my last trip this past spring). Add in a walk around sunset up behind the bohemian neighborhood to Belvedere del Gianicolo for amazing views over the city, and some important history in the battle for the unification of Italy.
27. Pincio Terrace
At the southwestern end of the Villa Borghese you'll find this excellent viewpoint out over Piazza del Popolo, with the Flaminio Obelisk in the foreground, and the Vatican out in the distance.
It's best in the morning, otherwise the sun will be right in front of you and wash out your photos.
28. The Keyhole
This is right down the road – a few hundred feet away – from the Orange Garden. First thing's first – everyone and their mother comes here for a picture in the late afternoon around sunset.
29. Visit my favourite church in Rome: The Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs
The Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs, also known as "Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri" in Italian, is a fascinating church located in Rome with a rich history that spans centuries. Its history is closely tied to the ancient Roman Baths of Diocletian, initially constructed in the 4th century AD by the Roman Emperor Diocletian. These baths were among the largest and most luxurious public baths in ancient Rome, covering an extensive area and serving as a symbol of the opulence of the Roman Empire.
The transformation of the baths into a Christian basilica began in the 16th century, thanks to the creative genius of the Italian Renaissance architect Michelangelo. In 1563, Pope Pius IV commissioned Michelangelo to convert a portion of the massive baths into a church, thus preserving the ancient structure's historical significance while repurposing it for Christian worship. Michelangelo's design was unique and innovative, featuring a central circular nave and a massive dome inspired by the Pantheon's design. This architectural masterpiece reflects the Renaissance's interest in blending classical and Christian elements.
When visiting the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs in Rome, Italy, there are several notable features and attractions to explore:
Michelangelo's Dome: The basilica's central dome, designed by Michelangelo, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Its grandeur and beauty are a highlight of the church's interior. You can admire the intricate details and the impressive artwork adorning the dome's interior.
Meridian Line: Inside the basilica is a meridian line on the floor, known as the “Salviati Meridian,” which was used for calculating the date of Easter. This historical feature is an exciting piece of scientific and religious history.
Ancient Roman Baths: The basilica was built within the ruins of the ancient Roman Baths of Diocletian. You can explore the vast interior spaces that once served as Roman baths. These remnants provide a unique perspective on the Roman Empire’s architectural and engineering achievements.
Chapels and Altars: St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs has several chapels and altars, each with artistic and historical significance. Be sure to visit them to admire the religious art and architecture.
Artwork: The basilica houses a variety of artwork, including paintings, frescoes, and sculptures. Look for pieces by renowned artists such as Domenico Parodi and Giovanni Odazzi. The interior is richly decorated and offers a feast for art enthusiasts.
Religious Services: Depending on the time of your visit, you may have the opportunity to attend a religious service or Mass in this beautiful church. The basilica continues to serve as a place of worship for the Catholic community.
Gardens and Courtyard: Surrounding the basilica are gardens and a courtyard providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Stroll through these serene spaces and enjoy some moments of quiet reflection.
Museum: The basilica also houses a museum with a collection of religious artifacts, manuscripts, and historical items related to the church’s history and connection to Michelangelo.
Gregorian Calendar Information: Learn about the basilica’s role in the Gregorian calendar reform and its significance in determining the date of Easter.
Pantheon’s Influence: Appreciate the influence of the Pantheon’s design on Michelangelo’s dome. Compare the two structures to see how elements of ancient Roman architecture were incorporated into this Renaissance church.
The Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs (Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri) is an impressive church initially designed by the renowned Renaissance architect Michelangelo. It is known for its unique circular shape and grandeur, with a dome that the Pantheon inspired. This basilica holds historical significance as it was built on the ancient Roman Baths of Diocletian ruins, making it a captivating blend of ancient and Christian history.
30. Orange Gardens on Aventine hill
This park lies at the top of the Aventine Hill, where you will also find the Santa Sabina church. Just a little further along you can also find a certain keyhole in the Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta. This is famous for framing the St Peter's cupola perfectly. This is one of the seven original hills in Rome, and looks out over the Tiber and the west of the historical center. Moreover, the view is surrounded by a paradisal garden which offers many shaded spots under its trees. It is thus one of the most tranquil panoramic views in Rome. This is a great place to spend an hour or two reading your book or picnicking after you have gazed out over this magnificent city.
Small terraces surrounded the Aventine so that travelers could enjoy the views of the Tiber and the architecture of Rome. Orange trees, which provide shade even in high summer, are garden's adornment. But you won't be able to eat the oranges since these small fruits are not intended for eating. It is remarkable that the orange trees were planted in honor of Saint Dominic (Latin Sanctus Dominicus) who founded the Basilica of Saint Sabina (Italian: Basilica di Santa Sabina all'Aventino).
Entrance to the Savello Park is decorated with an antique fountain similar to the Mouth of Truth located at the foot of the hill. Originally, the fountain was a simple Roman thermal bath faced with travertine. In the 16th century, it was decorated with carved stone mask with dramatically frowned lush eyebrows.
31. The Basilica of Santa Sabina
The Basilica of Santa Sabina was founded by the Roman presbyter Peter of Illyria during the pontificate of Pope Celestine I (422-432) and consecrated a few years later by Pope Sixtus III (432-440). Despite the interventions over the centuries, it retains its solemn and austere character of the late antiquity cult buildings, of which it is an extraordinary example. In 1222, the basilica was entrusted to the Order of Preachers by Pope Honorius III. Probably a few years earlier, the first brothers arrived on the Aventine hill and lived in premises that existed before the construction of the convent with its cloister. The cell of St. Dominic was also created in these spaces, where, according to tradition, the famous meeting with St. Francis took place.
32. Visit the Pontifical Atheneum of St. Anselm
Pontifical Atheneum of St. Anselm was established in 1687 and is one of the oldest higher education institutions in the country.
Pontifical Atheneum of St. Anselm carries out research in several scientific areas. The University's library was established with gifts from various Benedictine congregations and the personal collections of Cardinal Dusmet Gaetano Bernardino, and has since grown to become a substantial source of theological research material.
33. Forum of Trajan and Trajan's Column
It was constructed in 113 AD under Emperor Trajan to celebrate his victory in the Dacian Wars
The column's spiralling frieze tells the story of the campaigns, depicting over 2,500 individual figures in intricate detail.
The column stands 38 m tall (125 ft) and consists of 19 drums of Italian white marble. It stands on an 8-block base and is topped by a two-block pedestal. Originally, a 4.8 m (16 ft) bronze statue of Trajan stood on the top pedestal but this was replaced by a statue of St. Peter in 1588 CE. The column was in all likelihood conceived by Trajan's architect Apollodoros of Damascus as a commemoration of the emperor's victorious Dacian campaigns of c. 101-2 and 105-6 CE. On the Emperor's death in 117 CE his ashes were buried within the foundations of the column.
34. VISIT THE PANTHEON - Is on my top list of the most impressive architectures in the world (that's why I left it for the end)
Pantheon is one of the most iconic structures in Rome, a marvel of ancient engineering and architecture. But how much do you really know about this ancient wonder? Did you know that the Pantheon has the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world? Or that it was originally built as a temple for all Roman gods? This blog post will take you on a journey through 37 fascinating facts about the Pantheon, from its mysterious origins to its modern-day significance. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, these facts will give you a deeper appreciation for this timeless monument. Ready to learn more? Let's dive in!
The Pantheon, a Roman marvel, is a 2,000-year-old architectural wonder that has inspired buildings worldwide and continues to be a place of worship, cultural significance, and historical importance. With its massive dome, ancient engineering techniques, and enduring influence on art and culture, the Pantheon stands as a timeless symbol of human ingenuity and creativity.
Interesting Facts
The Pantheon was originally built as a temple dedicated to all Roman gods. The name "Pantheon" comes from the Greek words "pan" (all) and "theos" (god).
The original Pantheon was commissioned by Marcus Agrippa during the reign of Augustus in 27 BC. However, the building we see today was constructed by Emperor Hadrian around 126 AD.
The Pantheon's dome remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. It has a diameter of 142 feet (43.3 meters
The oculus, a 27-foot-wide (8.2 meters) circular opening at the top of the dome, is the only source of natural light inside the Pantheon.
Each of the Pantheon's columns is made from Egyptian granite and weighs about 60 tons. They were transported from Egypt to Rome, a remarkable feat for the time.
The Pantheon's dome was the largest in the world for over 1,300 years until the completion of the Florence Cathedral in 1436
The Pantheon is the burial place of several important figures, including the famous artist Raphael and two Italian kings, Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.
Lets talk about Italian Food
First, let's talk about what kinds of foods you should seek out when you're in Rome.
Italian cuisine is diverse and multifaceted, and each region has a very, very different set of ingredients and, as a result, dishes that make it special.
For example, bolognese (which by the way is completely different from the Americanized version. In Rome, the food is relatively simple. And this is most evident in the pasta dishes you'll find in Rome.
Here are the pasta dishes that are native to Rome and are worth ordering.
Cacio e pepe: As simple as it gets. Pasta, pecorino romano cheese, salt, and pepper. No butter – the creaminess comes from the starchy pasta water added back in at the end.
Carbonara: Again, incredibly simple. Eggs, cheese, and bacon. Add in some salt and pepper, and you've got a delicious, hearty, filling pasta dish. This is my first memory of a meal in Rome.
Pasta alla Gricia: Take cacio e pepe and add in some guanciale and white wine.
Pasta all'Amatriciana: Take pasta alla gricia and add in tomatoes.
For travelers seeking the quintessential Italian dessert experience, cannoli in Rome, Italy are a must-try. These delectable pastries, consisting of a crispy tube filled with sweet ricotta cream, are a beloved treat among locals and visitors alike.
Rome flies under the radar as Italy's most exciting pizza destination. Sure, Naples has the clout and centuries-old pizza traditions, but what Rome lacks in history it more than makes up for in variety, quality, and flavor.
The Roma Pass Should You Get It?
The pass is a tourist package, offered by the Comune di Roma (the city of Rome), to help visitors get a little bit of a bargain, encourage visits to cultural sites in Rome, and provide them with some useful tools during their visit to Rome.
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When you buy a Roma Pass, you get a bunch of discounts and benefits to use while your card is valid. Over 45 museums, monuments, and archeological sites are part of the Roma Pass.
Benefits of your Roma Pass include:
Full access to the first two museums or archaeological sites you visit (with the 72-hour pass)
Discounts and special prices for all other attractions, exhibitions, and tourist services
Special booking access and skip the line tickets at certain attractions
Free public transport in Rome Zone A
While the Roma pass does not include free entrance to the Vatican museums and Sistine Chapel, you can get a discount on entry
There are two options for the Roma Pass:
The 72-hour pass, which costs 58.50 EUR
The 48-hour pass, which costs 32 EUR
Depending on how long you plan to stay in Rome and how many sites you want to visit will determine which pass works best for you.
Remember, the 72-hour pass offers you free entry to the first two museums or sites you choose to visit.
The 48-hour pass offers you free entry to one site.
On visiting your first site or museum, your pass is automatically activated, and you can then use it as much as you like for the next 48/72 hours.
So, is Rome worth visiting?
Rome is worth visiting because it is a city where history, culture, and beauty collide in the most extraordinary way. There's simply no place like it—whether you're strolling through its ancient streets, admiring its art, or savoring a perfect plate of pasta, Rome offers an experience that feels both timeless and ever-evolving.
Rome isn't just worth visiting for its landmarks; it's worth visiting because it's a city that stays with you long after you leave. It's a place where history and the present come together, where every corner offers something new to discover, and where the pace of life encourages you to slow down, absorb, and savor. Whether you're a lover of art, history, food, or just exploring new places, Rome promises an experience that's as enriching as it is unforgettable.
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