There are so many sights to see in Rome that it is difficult to know where to start, however there are a few attractions that should not be missed.
The ancient Coliseum is one of those sights. It took many years to build, but the completion of its building dates back to 80 AD. It was the center of Roman entertainment and was the largest and most impressive building in Rome.
St. Peter's Basilica is the largest church in the world and it is also well worth a visit. The Pantheon was dedicated as a temple to all the gods and it is an impressive example of Roman architecture. Trevi Fountain is famous for it exquisite detail.
The Forum Romanum is an excellent choice of places to visit. It contained many buildings in its heyday, ranging from temples to basilicas, as well as beautiful triumphal arches. Today it is a scattering of ruins, but it provides an impression of the greatness of Rome to see the remains that still exist there.
The Piazza di Spagna contains the Spanish Steps, as well as an obelisk and church. It provides a beautiful background to what has become a popular meeting spot.
One cannot visit Rome without going to visit the Vatican Museums. Here you will find the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms and the Etruscan Museum. The Capitoline Museum is also a world-renowned museum that houses copies of Greek and Roman sculptures. Many other fascinating museums exist in Rome.
There are many accommodation options all over Rome. Many of the most interesting monuments and attractions can be found in one area and they are easy to visit on foot. If you want a bit more flexibility, you can hire a bicycle or a Vespa (which is what the Romans ride around in). If these options are not for you, the train, bus and tram services in Rome are extensive and you should not have trouble getting around by public transport.
Visitors to the area can choose to stay in hotels, which range in quality from luxury to budget. The luxury hotels can typically be found in the area of Via Veneto. You will also find classy hotels in the area around the Aventine or near Villa Borghese Park. Budget hotels can typically be found around Termini Station. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in a bed and breakfast or even to spend the night in a Catholic convent which opens its doors to travelers. Another accommodation option is to stay in a camping site. These are well set-up; however they tend to be a bit further out of the city which makes it less convenient if you plan to spend time viewing the attractions within Rome.
For a taste of the macabre try the Capuchin Crypt, the original haunted house. Ghoulishly decorated with the bones of long dead monks, the Crypt is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Those monks privileged enough to retain their bones in skeletal form have been propped up against the wall and dressed in hooded robes. Be sure to greet your hosts as you savour the creepy ambience and explore for lost souls. It's a place you will either love or hate, though it's probably unsuitable for young children.
The Gothic Sacro Cuore del Suffragio church claims to have evidence of paranormal activity. Enclosed in a glass case to protect from contamination, several handprints are believed to be those of lost souls awaiting their journey to heaven.
Egyptian influence is evident in the Pyramid of Caius Cestius. In ancient Rome many built their tombs in Egyptian fashion, but today, this is the only survivor. Constructed as part of a wall defending the city, it remains a compelling monument for the Tribune of the People for whom it was intended.
According to inscriptions upon the stones, the tomb was built over a period of 330 days and stands 118 feet (36 metres) tall. Completed in 12 BC, though the tomb may have the Egyptian signature, it differs in regard to its finish. The Romans loved marble, and in keeping with their tastes the pyramid was completed with marble slabs over the brick.
The Romans - indeed Italians in general - are justifiably proud of their culinary expertise, serving the world with their recipes. The National Museum of Pasta proudly reveals the origins of pasta in the heart of Italy, dating way back to the conception of the foodstuff some time in the 12th century.
The museum goes to great length detailing correct cooking procedures and the million and one variations on the theme that make the dish so versatile.
Learn how to cook the perfect pasta and discover how rigorous chewing can aid your digestive system.
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