10 Things To See in Rome

With breathtaking buildings and intricate architecture, the historic, but religious city of Rome is definitely worth a visit, at least once.

Rome is so full of history, that with every turn, you’ll be taken back in time. Read on to find some of the best things to see, while experiencing Italy’s capital.

Colosseum

No trip to Rome is complete, without visiting The Colosseum, the famous icon of Rome.

Once the largest amphitheatre of its time, the Colosseum had the ability to hold between fifty to eighty thousand people at once.

Built by the exiled Jews in 70AD, the Emporer, Vespasian, used the plunder from the Jewish Temple to pay for the building expenses.

In addition, it was also used for gladiatorial and wild animal fights, as well as the execution of prisoners.

While much of it has now been destroyed, this spectacular sight is one not to be missed, as you learn about life during Roman Empire times.

The Pantheon

Once a Roman temple, but now a Catholic church, dedicated to all the gods of pagan Rome.

The famous Pantheon, built between A.D 118 and 125, is known to be one of the most preserved and influential buildings of ancient Rome. Its name, comes from a Greek adjective, meaning “honour all Gods”.

During the Renaissance, the Pantheon was used as a burial site. The well known Italian painter, Raphael, can be found buried here.

The Roman Forum

The Roman Forum can be found in the city centre of Rome, near the Colosseum.

Filled with tall, cascading columns and surrounded by ruins, the Roman Forum was once the centre of trade and commerce, law, politics, as well as other governmental issues in Imperial Rome.

Furthermore, it was once the place for elections, triumphal processions, criminal trials, public speeches and much more. Today, the popular tourist site attracts over 4.5 million visitors annually.

Palatine Hill

Considered as an archaeological site, Palatine Hill is the central, most famous hill out of the seven hills of Rome.

This is where the original Romans lived, before the growth of the empire and expansion of the city. It is also believed to be the place where Romulus and Remus were found by the she-wolf.

Later it became the site of Caesar’s Palace as well as one of the dominant, upper-class residential areas.

Here, you can also take in the spectacular view of the Roman Forum.

Mamertine Prison

With Rome being a deeply religious city, the Mamertine Prison is worth a visit to learn about some biblical history.

Built around 7th Century BC, this is the famous prison site where St Paul and St Peter were imprisoned before their execution. St Paul, being a Roman citizen, was sadly beheaded and St Peter was crucified upside down.

Prisoners were lowered through a hole in the stone floor into the lowest part of the dungeon.

The site has also been featured in the movie “The Apostle Paul”.

Vatican Museum

The Vatican Museum is filled with rare historical artefacts from different parts of history both BC and AD, including a mass of Catholic Church sculptures and paintings throughout the centuries.

The museum is considered one of the most important in the world, and visiting would be essential when taking a trip to Rome.

Allow a good half a day to explore the museum, in order to truly appreciate the collections.

St. Peter’s Basilica

St Peter’s Basilica is a huge Renaissance-style Cathedral Church located in the centre of Vatican City. With stunning architecture, it is breathtaking both inside and out and considered to be one of the holiest Catholic shrines in the world.

Catholic tradition teaches that the church is built on the burial site of St Peter.

Entry to St Peter’s Basilica is free, but there are usually long lines along with security checks, worse during the summer months.

Trevi Fountain

Fontana di Trevi or well known as Trevi Fountain, is the largest fountain in the city. This iconic site stands at approximately 26 metres high and almost 50 metres wide.

No trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to the famous fountain. Legend holds that if you visit Trevi Fountain and throw a coin over your shoulder, into the fountain, this will ensure a return to Rome.

I have also heard this tradition dates back to ancient Roman times, when the Romans threw coins in the water, hoping the gods of water had favour on them and their journey.

Piazza Navona

A large tourist square with impressive fountain’s, nestled between popular restaurants, along with a beautiful backdrop of the Church of Sant’Agnese, make this area a lovely spot to visit.

With live performances from street artists and musicians, Piazza Navona can often be the perfect place to unwind, pause, devour some Italian gelato and take in the atmosphere Rome has to offer.

Altar of the Fatherland

This memorial monument pays tribute to Victor Emmanuel II, who was the first king of Italy, after the country’s unification.

Standing at 70 metres high and 135 metres wide, the monument features stunning columns and ample stairs, all carved in white marble.

From the top, enjoy the views from the panoramic terrace and marvel at the sculpture of Victor Emmanuel.

This eye-catching building is visited and photographed by thousands of tourists every day, even during the cooler months.

If the city’s charm has enchanted you enough to make you want to stay forever, there are many available accommodation options in Rome year-round.

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