Rome

The city is ancient and modern, arrogant and charming - the largest in Italy, the most popular in the world - is Rome. It spreads over seven hills along the two banks of the Tiber River. The Eternal City has preserved for us the treasures of many bygone civilizations.

Rome

The streets of Rome (Rome), like revived legends. They tell, demonstrate, shock. Rome opens from the high hill of Yanikula with the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum, the monumental dome of St. Peter's Basilica, the grand arena of the Coliseum. Rome sounds with the polyphony of church bells, the buzz of thousands of automobile horn, the hubbub of a motley crowd. The evening city captures and enchants. He invites you to small cafes and lively restaurants, to quiet alleys, to ancient squares and cool fountains.

Rome has always been the capital of world Catholicism. This was reflected in the abundance and luxury of its temples, in the exaltation of church architecture and the richness of the interior of the basilica, in the pompous grandeur of the Vatican. The apostle Peter arrived in Rome, and the "eternal city" became the center of Christianity. Here is the papal throne. His influence was lasting and never disputed.

Look into the "holy hole" to see 3 states at once: Malta, the Vatican and Italy, photo by andré reynolds

5 things to do in Rome

1. Look at the Colosseum, do not spare money for a ticket. The amphitheater arena, where gladiators once fought, inspires respect. And although to this day two-thirds of the Coliseum have not survived, it is still amazing.
2. Throw a coin with your right hand over your left shoulder, standing with your back to the Trevi Fountain. If one - return to Rome, two - meet love, three - there will be a wedding, four - wait for wealth. And also near the fountain, drink some water from the "tubes of lovers."
3. Go and not go or fly to the smallest state in the world - the Vatican. And as the heroes of Sweet Life, climb the 551 step to the dome of St. Peter's Basilica to freeze with delight when you see a panorama of Rome from a height of 120 meters. Send a postcard from the Vatican with a stamp of the Holy Catholic Brotherhood, you can imagine.
4. Look into the keyhole of the residence of the Order of Malta - the "holy hole" to see immediately 3 states: Malta, the Vatican and Italy.
5. Drink some water in the numerous drinking fountains that are scattered throughout the city. Water comes to Rome from the mountains! And you can drink it!

When is the best time to go to Rome?

Rome is spread on the banks of the Tiber

Rome is located in the center of the Apennine Peninsula. It spreads over 7 hills on the banks of the Tiber, in a valley descending from the Apennines to the Tyrrhenian Sea (to which about 25 km). The Roman Valley is amazingly picturesque.

The climate in Rome is subtropical Mediterranean. Winters are mild and rainy, frosts and snowfalls are rare, temperatures are kept within 5-10 °. The summer is long and hot, almost no rains, the temperature can exceed 40 °.

Experienced travelers consider the best time to visit Rome to be the end of spring or the beginning of autumn. In April, it is already warm enough + 20 °, and rains are rare. In May, almost summer weather is up to + 23 ° in the afternoon. In September - October it is still warm, but there is no more sweltering heat.

Winter in Rome is also interesting: Christmas markets and sales, New Year.

In June - August, Rome is literally crowded with tourists. Very hot, almost no rain. And in August, the Italians vacation period begins, so some restaurants and hotels will be closed.

November and February are unpopular months. It rains in November and cold in February. But then there are low rates for hotels and flights, there is no fuss in the city, and there are queues in museums.

Useful phone apps

• MyTaxi - to call a taxi
• ProntoTreno - buying train tickets
• Scooterino - search for a ride around the city on a moped
• Moovit is a public transport route planner in Milan, Rome and Naples; in other cities, it builds google maps routes well.
• The Fork - restaurant reservation applications often give discounts.
• IZI.travel - application with free audio guides in Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan
• I Nasoni di Roma - Map of Rome's Drinking Fountains

The main attractions of Rome

Roman forum

Roman Forum (Foro Romano)

Forum Romanum - the magnificent Roman Forum (Foro Romano). Through Forum Square passed Sacra Street, which led to the sacred Capitol Hill. These ancient ruins have seen a lot: shops, public ceremonies, festivals, and death sentences. The forum was destroyed and rebuilt. Christians erected their first temples here. At the beginning of the Renaissance, this place was desolate and was called the "cow field". Several ionic columns, Corinthian columns of the Vespasian temple, the magnificent arch of Septimius Severus, the Curia building, the famous Rostral tribune, the ruins of several ancient basilicas have survived from the Forum.

Coliseum

Roman Colosseum (Colosseo)

Colosseo is a huge amphitheater, an impressive building of the ancient world, one of the 7 New Wonders of the World. Of course, this is the most popular Roman attraction. Its ruins, deprived of their former decoration, still make a strong impression with their severe grandeur. It is interesting to plunge into history: not just read a book, but see with your own eyes, imagine ancient Rome, gladiators in the arena.

Big circus

Grand Circus (Circo Massimo)

The Grand Circus (Circo Massimo) is a huge building, which was used for chariot races, starting from the VI century BC. This is the first hippodrome and stadium of ancient Rome, accommodating up to 250 thousand spectators. Today, Circo Massimo has become a tourist attraction, demonstrating the former power of Ancient Rome.

Appieva road

Antique Appian Way, photo by Stijn Nieuwendijk

Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) - an antique public road, laid in the IV century BC. e. from Rome to the Mediterranean port city of Brundisi (today Brindisi). Imperial troops marched along it, merchant caravans moved and pilgrims traveled. The basalt cobblestones of the road eventually turned into a historical monument. The picturesque ruins of castles and fortresses, tombs and columbaria, underground catacombs immerse travelers in the past.

Pantheon

Pantheon (Pantheon)

"Temple of All Gods" - Pantheon. Its huge dome with a round hole is visible even from space. The ancient sanctuary was built in 126 BC. e. The Pantheon has served as a Christian temple since 609 and has been preserved in good condition.

Capitol hill

Capitol Hill (Monte Capitolino)

Capitol Hill (Monte Capitolino) is a historical and significant place, on which an eternal city was born. Two famous stairs; Capitoline Square with palaces, fountain and monuments; The revered basilica of Santa Maria in Aracheli is all here. And, of course, great views of the Forum and the surrounding area. Despite its importance, the Capitol is the lowest of the 7 Roman hills, and its area is small.

Castle of the Holy Angel

Castle of the Holy Angel (Castel Sant 'Angelo)

Castle of the Holy Angel (Castel Sant'Angelo - Castel Sant'Angelo) - the tomb of the emperor Hadrian, the mausoleum of many Roman rulers until 217. The fortress castle, crowned with the figure of an angel, served as a prison for a long time. Many great people saw his dungeons: Galileo, Giordano Bruno, Benvenuto Cellini and Count Cagliostro. Today, the monumental building, surrounded by a moat, has been turned into a promenade.

Vittoriano

Vittoriano - a monument to the "Father of the Fatherland", King Victor Emmanuel II

Vittoriano - a monument in Piazza Venezia (Piazza Venezia - Piazza Venezia) - a symbol of the unification of Italy. The building, crowned by the equestrian statue of Victor Emmanuel II, was built over half a century. The massive neoclassical building does not fit well into the baroque ensemble of the square, but in the evening illumination it looks very romantic.

Basilica of St. John the Baptist on Lateran Hill

Basilica of St. John the Baptist on Lateran Hill (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano), photo R4all

The oldest Christian church, the cathedral of Rome - is the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano). The first basilica building was built in the IV century, then was rebuilt several times. A colossal eastern facade appeared in the XVIII century. Here is one of the ancient Christian relics - the Rock of Santa (Sacred Stairs), along which Christ ascended to the judgment of Pilate.

Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi), photo by Christos Constantinou

The Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) was created in the 18th century. This is the most ambitious Roman fountain - a true symbol of the Baroque era. He is known for his theatricality. Its greatness is emphasized by the small size of the square in front of it in the form of an amphitheater, where spectators are constantly present. And the Trevi Fountain itself is like a scene with the central figure of the god of the seas.

Navona Square

Piazza Navona

The former Roman stadium has become one of the most beautiful squares of the Renaissance. Piazza Navona is like an oblong hall surrounded by baroque facades. Here you can see 3 beautiful fountains - Four Rivers, Moors, Neptune, and 2 churches - St. Agnes and St. Mary. Palaces, churches, fountains, benches and an enchanting atmosphere make you fall in love with this beautiful square.

It is impossible to list all the attractions of the Italian capital. Hitler admired the grandeur, purity and beauty of the ancient city, so Rome almost did not suffer destruction during the years of World War II. The Führer did not begin to undermine the bridges over the Tiber, so as not to be considered the destroyer of the Eternal City. However, the dictator Mussolini left his mark in the guise of the capital. Under him, new highways were laid, which buried under themselves part of the buildings of ancient forums.

Architecture and monuments of Rome

• Tiber
• Mouth of truth
• Monument to Pope at Termini Station
• Column of Marcus Aurelius
• Turtle Fountain on Piazza Mattei
• Altar of Peace
• Grand Circus - Antique Stadium in Rome
• Triumphal Arch of Constantine
• Vittoriano - a monument to the "Father of the Fatherland", King Victor Emmanuel II
• The Baths of Caracalla
• Fountain of the Four Rivers in Navona Square
• Trevi Fountain - a symbol of Roman Baroque

Palaces and castles of Rome

• Quirinale Palace
• Golden House of Nero
• Senators Palace
• Castle of the Holy Angel. Mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian
• Palace of Conservatives
• New palace

Museums, forums and galleries in Rome

• Senators Palace
• Palatine Hill
• Capitol hill
• Forum Nerves
• Vespasian forum, imperial forums
• Trajan's forum, imperial forums
• Caesar Forum, imperial forums
• Palace of Conservatives
• New palace
• Capitoline Museums
• Coliseum
• Forum of Augustus, imperial forums
• Roman forum
• Aventin Hill
• National Museum of Rome
• Testaccio
• Villa Borghese

Square of rome

• Navona Square
• People Square
• Capitoline Square
• Venice Square - tourist center of Rome
• Spain Square
• Republic Square

Gardens and parks of Rome

• Biopark in Rome
• Villa Borghese

Theaters and entertainment in Rome

• Cinema Time Elevator Rome - a virtual excursion into history
• Amusement parks in Italy

Streets and areas of Rome

• Vittorio Veneto

Temples and Cathedrals of Rome

• Pantheon
• Holy staircase
• Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano
• Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracheli
• Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli
• Church of Il Gesu
• Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Vatican

• Vatican Museums
• St. Peter's Square
• The Sistine Chapel
• St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican

To not stand in line, buy tickets at biglietteriamusei.vatican.va.

A bit of history

On the ancient streets of Rome

Ancient Rome

The history of Rome begins in 753 BC. The Trojan Aeneas, son of Anchis, married the daughter of Tsar Latina - Lavinia. He founded a settlement by the sea, calling it Lavinius in honor of his beloved wife. The tribes that came to the sea with Aeneas gradually mixed with the Etruscans. The united people began to be called "Latins."

Vestal Rhea Sylvia - the daughter of the Latin king Numitor - gave birth to sons Romulus and Remus. Rhea violated the vow of chastity given to the goddess Vesta. For this, her uncle Amulius took away the children and threw him into the Tiber. Gemini rescued and nurtured by a she-wolf. The shepherd Faustul raised the boys. The matured brothers killed Amulius and together built a new city. After that, a fierce dispute arose between them over the name of the city. During this argument, Romulus killed Remus.

The city began to be named after Romulus - Roma quadrata. It was separated from the surrounding fields by a square groove. Romulus gathered warriors of neighboring tribes to his city, the population of Roma quadrata grew rapidly. The territory was gradually expanded beyond the square walls. A council of elders - patricians was elected. The Romans lacked women. Roman warriors abducted beautiful Sabine women in a neighboring Sabine tribe.

In 716 BC Romulus is dead. In the next century, the power of the Romans was expanded to the coast - the city of Ostia was founded there. From 509 BC established republican rule - the Romans elected consuls. Over time, the power of the Romans spread to the north of Italy; then Sicily and Spain, Carthage, Greece were conquered.

The transition from republican to imperial rule occurred under Caesar. The Roman emperors did a lot for the development of architecture, culture, social policy. The construction of the Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine during the reign of Emperor Constantine marked the beginning of the Christian era.

The center of Rome - the home of the patricians - remained pagan for a long time, but Christian churches grew one after another outside the city walls. Finally, Rome became Christian in the 5th century A.D. The great city at that time was destroyed by barbarians. The history of Ancient Rome ended, but the great culture did not die, but developed further.

Rome in the Middle Ages

In 754, an alliance was concluded with the Franks. The empire was in the power of Pope Paul I. A church state was formed - in the future - the Vatican.

XII-XIII centuries were marked by the decline of the great city. The rise of Roman culture began again in the period XIII - XIV centuries. Architecture evolved; poets and painters came to Rome. At the behest of Pope Boniface VIII, a university was opened in 1303.

Serious damage was done to Rome by the troops of Charles V in 1527. The beginning of the 16th century went down in history as the Renaissance. At this time, the best works of the high Renaissance were created. Later (in 1530–40), it was here that the Baroque style was formed.

Rome in modern and modern times

In 1808, Rome was occupied by Napoleon’s troops, the papal secular power was abolished. In 1814, the pope returned to the city, and already in 1848-49. there was a revolution. Garibaldi proclaimed a new Roman Republic. To suppress the rebels, the French again entered Rome. They remained until 1870 and the new invasion of the Garibaldians.In 1871, Rome was proclaimed the capital of the Italian kingdom. Since 1946, it became the capital of the Italian Republic. In 1943, the army of Nazi Germany occupied Rome. Anglo-American troops liberated the city in June 1944.

Rome today

Drinking Fountains in Rome

Today's Rome is a modern developed metropolis. It is located in the center of the ring road, serves as the main railway junction of central Italy, has two international airports. The city has an internal transport network, there is a metro.

Rome delights. You do not need to be an expert on history and art to admire its magnificent streets and ancient squares. To at least superficially examine the riches of the "eternal city", not even a month is enough.

We know where all the roads lead ... The Eternal City, with noble dignity, the patrician meets the guests. Benvenuti a Roma!

Things to do in Rome

At a nightclub in Rome, photos by Discoteche Roma

Rome is not only antique ruins, grandiose museums, elegant Renaissance palazzos. If you want to feel the spirit of the city, step back for a while from the obligatory "program of tourist visits." Immerse yourself in the midst of life in the capital of Italy. "Utile dulci miscere" - said the ancient Romans. Combine the useful with the pleasant!

On the eastern outskirts of the city, on the territory of the Lungetsza castle, a "fantastic world" was created - Fantastico Mondo del Fantastico - a relaxation area dedicated to the theme of fairy tales and mysticism. Address: Castello di Lunghezza, Via di Lunghezza, Via della Tenuta del Cavaliere, 230. Website: www.castellodilunghezza.it.

LunEur, the largest Roman amusement park, founded in 1953, has undergone extensive reconstruction and reopened since 2016. On its territory now operates more than 130 new and updated attractions. Address: Via delle Tre Fontane, 100. Website: www.luneurpark.it.

The entertainment and educational complex Time Elevator is an interactive cinema hall. It offers children and adults a virtual journey into the history of Rome. Interactive excursions into the past on the “Time Elevator” are accompanied by 5D effects, there is audio accompaniment in Russian. Address: Via dei Santi Apostoli, 20. Website: www.time-elevator.it.

“Valeant curae!” Which means “Goodbye, cares!” - say the Romans, going to clubs and discos. The city’s best dance floor is the Art Cafe on Viale Del Galoppatoio 33. Themed parties, stylized Brazilian carnivals and Venetian masquerades, fashion shows, movie shows are held here.

Via del Commercio 36 has a popular Alpheus nightclub with four dance floors. The institution hosts jazz concerts, rock parties and "ethnic nights", cabaret shows, and theater performances.

Football matches and other competitions can be watched at the grand Stadio Olimpico and the Flaminio Stadium.

Holidays and events

Spring Festival, photo by Wolfgang Baumann

Twice a year, the capital of Italy holds the “Hundred Artists” street festivals on Via Margutta. In the old quarter, Italian and foreign brush masters gather at the foot of the Pincho hill, exhibitions are held.

In late January - early February, the Roman Carnevale (Carnevale Romano) masks, carnival costumes, performances, fireworks, which dates back to the Middle Ages. It takes place on the Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Navona, Piazza Spagna, Via del Corso.

On March 15, Largo Argentina Square is reconstructing dramatic events from the history of the first republic of ancient Rome - the assassination of Guy Julius Caesar during a Senate meeting on March 15, 44 BC. e.

March 19th celebrates the feast of St. Joseph (Festa di San Giuseppe) or the Day of the pope, the father of the family. Colleagues and acquaintances congratulate dads on their holiday; statues of the saint are decorated, sports are held, artists perform.

Spring Festival (Festival di Primavera) runs from late March to late April. It begins with a flower exhibition on the Spanish Steps, continues with his concerts, performances by orchestras, choirs and ensembles.

Every year in April, a massive Roman marathon starts from the Coliseum.

There, at the ancient amphitheater, on Good Friday, the procession begins - the most beautiful religious event in Rome.

April 21 is the foundation day of the city (Compleanno di Roma). The capital of Italy is being transformed. Fireworks, a performance by the mayor, theatrical performances, marches and competitions fill all the parks and streets. The main event is the beauty contest "Goddess of Rome". Major celebrations are held on Capitol Hill. Entrance to the Capitol Museums is free on this day.

Easter is celebrated in April (Pasqua).

On May 1, a free May Day concert (Concerto di Primo maggio) takes place on the square opposite the Lateran Basilica. Famous Italian and foreign artists are performing.

In the last week of May, Villa Borghese hosts the International Horse Show.

On June 29, the city honors heavenly patrons - Saints Peter and Paul (Festa dei S.S. Pietro e Paolo).

All evenings, from the second half of June until the first half of September, the Testaccio Village Music Festival lasts. In the Testaccio district, concerts and performances continue until midnight, followed by discos, clubs and bars.

In mid-July, the week-long Festa de'Noantri festival takes place, dedicated to the Roman relic - a statue of Our Lady of Carmel.

Summer Opera Festival (Summer Opera Festival) is held on the territory of Term Caracalla.

From September to November - Festival RomaEuropa (Festival RomaEuropa). This art festival takes place in 15 different places throughout Rome. It features dancing, music, theater, contemporary art and a circus.

In the fall, in different months, the Independent Film Festival takes place: films of various genres are participating, the film business "The Business Street" is working.

The beginning of November is marked by a jazz extravaganza with the participation of invited foreign stars.

The Christmas season is noisy and magnificent, it ends with St. Sylvester Day - the Romans gather on December 31 at People's Square.

Shopping

Main street of shopaholics Via dei Condotti, photo by Raymond

The capital of Italy is a recognized center of world fashion and shopping. In Rome, shops and boutiques of various levels are open. Products at affordable prices can be bought on Via Nazionale or Via del Corso - these are the main shopping streets in Rome.

Expensive designer boutiques work near Plaza de Espana, on Via Borgognona, Via del Babuino, Via dei Condotti and Via Frattina.

Luxury goods are sold in department stores of the famous La Rinascente chain.

The most popular shopping center of the Italian capital is the Gallerie Alberto Sordi Gallery, an old passage on the Piazza Colonna.

Rare clothing brands can be found at Coin Shopping Center, address: Via Cola di Rienzo, 173.

The sales season starts from the beginning of July and continues until the end of summer. Winter sales open in Rome in the first January week.

What to try and where to eat

Italian ice cream

The Latin phrase "Tentanda omnia" means literally: "Everything needs to be tried." You can not visit Rome and not try the famous gelato - ice cream. Treats prepared according to classic and company recipes are sold everywhere. The most famous gelatories are Il Gelato, Giancarlo Corona, Fata Morgana, Giolitti, Sant'Eustachio.

Local pastry shops and pastries offer tiramisu and cassata liquor biscuits, traditional sweet maritozzi con la panna buns, pastry minions, and castagnaccio chestnut cake.

A traditional appetizer, “suppli” chops from risotto, is served in all restaurants in Rome. Authentic Roman cuisine also includes the Schnitzel of Saltimbocca Romana. The local specialty is the “alla vaccinara code” stew: it is made from oxtails.

Even pizza in Rome is special - juicy pizza bianca on thin crust. Excellent low-cost trattorias open in the Trastevere area; there is also the famous IVO pizzeria (Via di S. Francesco a Ripa, 158). Amazing pizza is also prepared at the Casa Manco pizzeria in the Testaccio market.

If you are interested in chic establishments, visit La Pergola at 101 Alberto Cadlolo or Oliver Glowig at Villa Borghese. Alfredo alla Scrofa is an elegant restaurant renowned by the eminent audience and the “personalized” culinary masterpiece: they serve Alfredo fettuccini invented by the chef in 1914 (restaurant address: Via della Scrofa, 104 / a).

You can explore the assortment of the best wines at Barrique (Via del Boschetto, 41B) and Remigio (Via Santa Maria Ausiliatrice, 15), at Enoteca Wineconcept (Via Capo d'Africa, 21) or Il Sorì (Via dei Volsci, 51) .

Airports in Rome

Near Rome there are 2 airports - the main Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) and the smaller Rome-Ciampino.

How to get from Fiumicino airport to Rome, I figured out here.

Transport of Rome

Information on tickets and travel in Rome and the metro map is on this page.

Double decker sightseeing buses

City sightseeing Roma red sightseeing bus

Lena and I like to use double-decker sightseeing buses using the Hop-on Hop-Off system. They are in almost all major cities. The point is this. Buses run along one or more ring routes. We will analyze the main routes in Rome

How to get from Rome to ...

What to see in the vicinity of Rome

Bracciano

Rainbow MagicLand is a huge amusement park near Valmontone, 60 km southeast of Rome. The Italian Disneyland, dedicated to the adventures of the Winx fairies, has its own "school of magic" - Castello Alfea. Details about the park are written here.

In Latina, near the legendary Appian Way, there is a park museum of 12 pavilions - Piana delle Orme. There are collected samples of equipment and weapons, historical transport; Expositions of objects of rural life, crafts, toys were created.

The Aquapiper water park is open 20 km northeast of Rome - near the town of Guidonia-Montecelio.

Sutri, 45 km from the Italian capital, has Fontevivola Water Park.

30 km to the north-west is the charming town of Bracciano with a clear lake and the renaissance castle of Orsini-Odescalchi.

At 24 kilometers, on the banks of the Anio River, is Tivoli with ancient ruins and an impressive landscape park.

National Park Alban Hills (Colli Albani), which is also called the "Roman Castles", is located only 20 km from the capital. There you will find landscapes of amazing beauty and a series of small towns that have preserved the spirit of antiquity and the Middle Ages.

How do I save on hotels?

Everything is very simple - look not only at the booking. I prefer the search engine RoomGuru. He is looking for discounts at the same time on Booking and on 70 other booking sites.

Watch the video: Rome - I Belong To You Official Video (April 2024).