Famous places in ancient Rome. The city of Rome: its attractions, photographs and description

Rome (Italy) is one of the greatest cities in the world. Its history goes back thousands of years. The city amazes with its monumental architecture, fabulous squares, colorful markets and streets with interesting people - magnificence is simply at every turn.

But if you're traveling to Rome, you need a clear plan. Otherwise, there is a risk of being overwhelmed by the many things to see in the Eternal City.

From the most famous Roman ruins to majestic churches, top-notch art museums, charming piazzas and bustling food markets, we've rounded up the top tourist attractions in the city of Rome, complete with photos and descriptions.

You probably won't need one trip to Rome to see all the attractions on this list and those that don't. But you have to start somewhere!

Founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century and expanded by subsequent pontiffs, the Vatican Museums boast one of the greatest art collections in the world.

The exhibits, which occupy about 7 km of halls and corridors, are as diverse as possible: from Egyptian mummies and Etruscan bronze objects to ancient busts, from paintings that have become classics to modern works.

Highlights to visit: the impressive collection of classical sculptures at the Pio Clementino Museum, several exhibition halls with frescoes by Raphael, and Michelangelo's painted Sistine Chapel.

Address: Musei Vaticani, Viale Vaticano, Rome, Italy.

You can visit as part of excursions:

Rome's Great Gladiator Arena is the most spectacular of the city's ancient attractions. Opened in 80 AD, the 50,000-seat Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, was built of travertine and covered with a huge canvas tent raised by 240 masts.

Inside, the arena was surrounded by multi-level stands, and it itself was built above an underground complex (hypogeum), where animals sat and the scenery was prepared. The games featured gladiators fighting wild animals or each other.

Address: Colosseo, Piazza del Colosseo, Rome, Italy.

Entrance: Paid.

Tickets:

The Colosseum can be visited as part of excursions:

A collection of ruins, the former Roman Forum was the central site of ancient Rome, a grand district of temples, basilicas and vibrant public spaces.

The site, which was originally an Etruscan burial ground, was first settled in the 7th century BC, and over time became the social, political and commercial center of the Roman Empire. Attractions include the Arch of Septemius Severus, the Curia and the House of the Vestals.

Like many of the great cities of ancient Rome, the forum lost its importance after the fall of the Roman Empire, until it eventually came to be used as grazing land. In the Middle Ages it was known as Campo Vaccino ("Field of the Cows") and was plundered for its stones and marble.

The area began to be systematically explored in the 18th and 19th centuries, and excavations continue to this day.

Address: Foro Romano, Via della Salara Vecchia, Rome, Italy.

The Roman Forum can be visited as part of excursions:

Saint Paul's Cathedral

This city has many outstanding churches, but none compares to St. Peter's Basilica - Italy's largest, richest and most impressive basilica. Built on the site of a 4th-century church, it was consecrated in 1626 after completing 120 years of construction.

Its luxurious interior includes many famous works of art, including three of Italy's most famous masterpieces: Michelangelo's Pietà, its soaring dome and Bernini's 29-meter canopy over the papal altar.

At the cathedral, you'll likely face lines and a strict dress code (no shorts, miniskirts or bare shoulders allowed).

Address: St. Peter's Basilica, Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City, Papal See (Vatican City State).

St. Peter's Cathedral can be visited as part of excursions:

Situated between the Roman Forum and the Circus Massimo, the Palatine Hill is an atmospheric area with tall pine trees, majestic ruins and unforgettable views. It is believed that it was here that Romulus founded the city in 753 BC, and here, in crazy luxury, the emperors of Rome lived.

Note the stadium, ruins of the Domus Flavia (imperial palace) and stands overlooking the Roman Forum from Orti Farnesiani.

Address: Palatino, Rome, Italy.

If you only have time to visit one art gallery in Rome, come here. Home to what is often called the “queen of all private art collections”, the gallery boasts paintings by Caravaggio, Raphael and Titian, as well as some unknown sculptures by Bernini.

There is a lot to see in general, but look first for Ratto di Proserpina (The Rape of Proserpina) by Bernini and Venere vincitrice (Venus Vitrix) by Canova.

To limit the number of visitors, visitors are admitted at two-hour intervals, so you will need to pre-book tickets and check entry times.

Address: Museo e Galleria Borghese, Piazzale Scipione Borghese, Rome, Italy.

Capitoline Museums

Capitoline Museum. | Photo: dvdbramhall / Flickr.

Built in 1471, the Capitoline Museums are the oldest public museums in the world. Their collection of classical sculpture is one of the best in Italy, including the famous Lupa Capitolina (Capitolian Wolf), the sculpture of Romulus and Remus under the wolf and the Galata morente (The Dying Gaul), describing the death of the war.

There is also a huge art gallery with masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, Rubens and Caravaggio.

Address: Musei Capitolini, Piazza del Campidoglio, Rome, Italy.

A magnificent 2,000-year-old temple, now a church, the Pantheon is the best preserved of the ancient Roman monuments and one of the most influential buildings in the Western world. Built by Hadrian from an earlier temple of Marcus Agrippa in 27 BC, it has stood here since around 125 AD, and although its drab exterior is in keeping with its era, it is still a unique and moving monument .

You definitely need to walk through the huge bronze doors and look at the largest unreinforced concrete dome.

The Temple of Hadrian was dedicated to the classical gods, hence the name Pantheon, derived from the Greek words pan (all) and theos (god). But in 608 the temple was consecrated as a Christian church and now officially bears the name Basilica di Santa Maria ad Martires.

The real charm of the Pantheon lies in its enormous size and impressive dome. Considered the greatest architectural achievement of the ancient Romans, it was the largest dome in the world until the 15th century and is still the largest unreinforced concrete dome.

Its harmonious appearance is due to precisely calibrated symmetry - the diameter of the dome is exactly equal to the internal height of the Pantheon of 43.4 meters.

At its center, the 8.7 m diameter oculus, which symbolically linked the temple to the gods, plays a vital role in the geometry, absorbing and redistributing the enormous tensile forces of the dome. Rainwater enters but drains through 22 almost invisible holes in the sloping marble floor.

Address: Pantheon, Piazza della Rotonda, Rome, Italy.

You can visit as part of the excursion:

Price calendar for tours to Rome:

Lateran Basilica (Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano)

Lateran Basilica. | Photo: Paval Hadzinski / Flickr.

For a thousand years, this monumental cathedral was the most important church in Christendom. Commissioned by Constantine and consecrated in 324 AD, it was the first Christian basilica built in the city. Until the end of the 14th century it was the main place of worship of the pope. It is still the official cathedral of Rome and the seat of the Pope as Bishop of Rome.

Address: Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, Rome, Italy.

The Trevi Fountain, the setting of Anita Ekberg's bathing scene in La Dolce Vita (The Sweet Life), is a vibrant baroque ensemble of mythical figures and wild horses that takes up the entire side of the 17th-century Palazzo Poli.

Following a restoration sponsored by Fendi in 2015, the fountain shimmers brighter than before. Here, a tradition is maintained that guarantees return to Rome - throwing a coin into the water. On average, about 3,000 euros are thrown into the fountain every day.

Address: Fontana di Trevi, Piazza di Trevi, Rome, Italy.

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona.

With its spectacular fountains, baroque palazzos, colorful actors and street artists, hawkers and tourists, Piazza Navona is an elegant embodiment of culture in the center of Rome.

Built on the site of the 1st century Stadio Domiziano, it was paved in the 15th century and was the city's main market for almost 300 years. The central part includes Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers, a striking fountain with an Egyptian obelisk and muscular representations of the Nile, Ganges, Danube and La Plata rivers.

Address: Piazza Navona, Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy.

The road is named after the consul Appius Claudius Caecus, who laid out the first 90-kilometer section in 312 BC. This was the main road of Rome and was later extended in 190 BC to allow access to Brindisi.

Appian Way for a long time was one of the most exclusive places in Rome, a beautiful cobbled thoroughfare surrounded by grassy fields, Roman buildings and tall pine trees. The most magnificent building on it was the Villa dei Quintili, so coveted that the Emperor Commodus killed its owner and began to own it himself.

This road has a dark history - it was here that Spartacus and his 6,000 slave followers were crucified in 71 BC, and it was here that the first Christians buried people in three hundred kilometers of underground catacombs. You won't be able to visit the entire 300 km, but the three main catacombs of San Callisto, San Sebastiano and Santa Domitilla are open to the public.

Address: Parco Regionale Appia Antica, Via Appia Antica, Rome, Italy.

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. | Photo: Mario T./Flickr.

One of Rome's four patriarchal basilicas, this monumental 5th-century church stands atop the Esquiline hill, on the site where snow is said to have miraculously fallen in the summer of 358 AD. To commemorate this event, every year on August 5th, thousands of white petals are lowered from the basilica's coffered ceiling.

Varying over the centuries, this architectural hybrid impresses with a 14th-century Romanesque bell tower, an 18th-century Baroque façade, a largely Baroque interior and a series of magnificent 5th-century mosaics.

Address: Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza di San Maria Maggiore, Rome, Italy.

You can visit as part of the excursion:

National Museum of Rome: Palazzo Massimo alle Terme. | Photo: Richard Cassan / Flickr.

One of Rome's greatest museums, an incredible treasure trove of classical art. The first and second floors are dedicated to sculpture, some of the works are simply breathtaking. Look at the Pugile (Boxer), a Greek bronze from the 2nd century BC, the graceful Ermafrodite dormiente (Sleeping Hermaphrodite) also from the 2nd century BC. e. and the idealized Il discobolo (The Discus Thrower).

On the second floor there are magnificent colored frescoes that are worth seeing.

Address: Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, Largo di Villa Peretti, Rome, Italy.

Gallery Doria Pamphili

Gallery Doria Pamphilj. | Photo: damian entwistle / Flickr.

Tucked away behind the dingy gray façade of the Palazzo Doria Pamphili, this remarkable gallery boasts one of Rome's richest private collections, housing works by Raphael, Tintoretto, Titian, Caravaggio, Bernini and Velázquez, as well as several Flemish masters.

Masterpieces abound, but the undisputed star is Velázquez's portrait of the implacable Pope Innocent X, who complained that the image was "too real." For comparison, see Gian Lorenzo Bernini's sculptural interpretation of the same character.

Address: Galleria Doria Pamphilj, Corso, Rome, Italy.

Basilica di Sant'Agnese Fuori le Mura & Mausoleo di Santa Costanza. | Photo: Allie_Caulfield / Flickr.

Although it's a bit challenging, it's worth seeking out this intriguing medieval church complex. Located above the catacombs where Saint Agnes was buried.

It includes the Basilica of Sant'Agnes Fuori le Mura, home to a stunning Byzantine mosaic of saints, and the Mausoleum of Santa Costanza, a 4th-century circular mausoleum decorated with the oldest mosaics in Christendom.

Address: Basilica di Sant’Agnese fuori le Mura, Via Nomentana, Rome, Italy.

Church of Gesu (Il Gesu). | Photo: Karim Rezk / Flickr.

An impressive example of Counter-Reformation architecture, the most important Jesuit Church Rome is a fabulous example of Baroque art. Major works include the vault fresco by Giovanni Battista Gaulli (aka Il Baciccia) and Andrea del Pozzo's sumptuous tomb for Ignatius of Loyola, the Spanish soldier and saint who led the Jesuits in 1540.

Saint Ignatius lived in the church from 1544 until his death in 1556, and you can visit his private rooms in the Cappella di Sant’Ignazio.

Address: Chiesa del Gesù, Via degli Astalli, Rome, Italy.

National Museum of Rome: Palazzo Altemps. | Photo: dvdbramhall / Flickr.

Located just north of Piazza Navona, Palazzo Altemps is a fine late 15th-century palazzo that houses the best of the National Museum of Rome's vast collection of classical sculpture. Many of the pieces come from the famous Ludovisi collection, assembled by Cardinal Ludovico Ludovisi in the 17th century.

Address: Museo Nazionale Romano, Palazzo Altemps, Piazza di Sant’Apollinare, Rome, Italy.

Basilica of San Paolo Fuori le Mura

Basilica of San Paolo Fuori le Mura.

This magnificent basilica is the largest church in Rome after St. Peter's (and the third largest in the world), and stands on the site where St. Paul was buried after his beheading in 67 AD.

Built by Constantine in the 4th century, it was largely destroyed by fire in 1823 and much of what you see is a 19th century reconstruction.

Address: Basilica Papale San Paolo fuori le Mura, Piazzale San Paolo, Rome, Italy.

Plaza de España and Spanish Steps

Spanish Steps. | Photo: Paolo Margari / Flickr.

The Spanish Steps (Scalinata della Trinità dei Monti), which has attracted visitors since the 18th century, is ideal place to watch people. 135 glittering steps rise from Piazza di Spagna to the famous landmark Chiesa della Trinity dei Monti.

Piazza di Spagna was named after the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See, but the staircase itself, designed by the Italian Francesco de Santis, was built in 1725 with money bequeathed by a French diplomat.

Address: Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti, Piazza di Spagna, Rome, Italy.

Palazzo Colonna

Gallery Column. | Photo: dvdbramhall / Flickr.

This opulent 17th-century gallery, the only part of the Palazzo Colonna open to the public, houses the private art collection of the Colonna family.

The six rooms of the gallery are topped with magnificent ceiling frescoes dedicated to Marcantonio Colonna, the family's greatest ancestor, who defeated the Turks at the naval battle of Lepanto in 1571. The works of Giovanni Coli and Filippo Gherardi in the Great Hall, Sebastiano Ricci in the Room of Landscapes and Giuseppe Bartolomeo Chiari in the Throne Room tell of his merits.

Note also the cannonball lodged in the gallery's marble staircase, a striking reminder of the 1849 Siege of Rome.

The other wing includes the opulent Chapel Hall and Artemisia's rich collection of 17th-century tapestries. The terrace café is open from May to October.

Address: Galleria Colonna, Via della Pilotta, Rome, Italy.

You can visit as part of the excursion:

Castle of the Holy Angel.

This circular keep castle is an instantly recognizable landmark. Built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, it was converted into a papal fortress in the 6th century and named after a vision of an angel that Pope Gregory the Great had in 590.

It currently houses the National Museum of the Castel Sant'Angelo and its collection of paintings, sculptures, war memorabilia and medieval firearms.

Address: Castel Sant'Angelo, Lungotevere Castello, Rome, Italy.

Basilica of St. Clement

Basilica of St. Clement.

Nowhere better captures the various stages of Rome's turbulent past than in this fascinating multi-level church. The 12th-century above-ground basilica sits on the foundations of a 4th-century church, which in turn rises above a 2nd-century pagan temple and a 1st-century Roman house.

Address: Basilica di San Clemente, Via Labicana, Rome, Italy.

Palazzo Barberini. | Photo: Stin Shen / Flickr.

The Barberini Palace, built to commemorate the rise of the Barberini family to papal power, is luxurious palace in a baroque style that impresses even before you see the breathtaking art. Many famous architects worked on it, including competitors Bernini and Borromini.

Among the masterpieces, don't miss Pietro da Cortona's Il Trionfo della Divina Provvidenza (The Triumph of Divine Providence 1632–39) and the most spectacular frescoes on the ceiling of the palazzo in the main hall on the ground floor.

Address: Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica in Palazzo Barberini, Via delle Quattro Fontane, Rome, Italy.

Baths of Caracalla.

The remains of the bath complex of Emperor Caracalla are among the most impressive Roman ruins. The complex was opened in 216 AD and occupied an area of ​​10 hectares. There were baths, gyms, libraries, shops and gardens. The complex was used daily by up to 8,000 people.

Most of the ruins are what remains of the central bathhouse. It was a huge rectangular building surrounded by two gymnasiums and located in the center of the frigidarium (cold room), where bathers stopped after the warm tepidarium and domed caldarium (hot room).

Address: Terme di Caracalla, Viale delle Terme di Caracalla, Rome, Italy.

You can visit as part of the excursion:

Villa Medici. | Photo: marthelelièvre / Flickr.

This luxurious Renaissance palace was originally built for Cardinal Ricci da Montepulciano in 1540, but Ferdinando de' Medici bought it in 1576. It remained in Medici hands until 1801, when Napoleon acquired it for the French Academy.

Address: Villa Medici, Viale della Trinità dei Monti, Rome, Italy.

Trajan's Market.

Trajan's Market - ruins of commercial buildings in Trajan's Forum in Rome. It was a 5-story complex built by Apollodorus of Damascus. The structure was located on a hillside and was built in the form of terraces. It housed about 150 retail outlets, taverns, eateries, and food distribution points for the public.

Each shop had an exit (vitrina) to the street. The shops sold spices, fruits, wine, olive oil, fish, silk and other goods from the East. In the middle of the market was Via Biberatica, a street named after the taverns that lined it.

Address: Mercati di Traiano, Via Quattro Novembre, Rome, Italy.

Santa Maria del Popolo

Santa Maria del Popolo. | Photo: vgm8383 / Flickr.

A magnificent repository of art, it is one of the earliest and richest Roman churches of the Renaissance.

Of the many works of art on display, two masterpieces by Caravaggio stand out here: the Conversion of St. Paul (1601) and the Crucifixion of St. Peter (1601) in the chapel to the left of the high altar. But there are other wonderful works here too.

Address: Basilica Parrocchiale Santa Maria del Popolo, Piazza del Popolo, Rome, Italy.

San Luigi dei Francesi

The church has been known to the French community in Rome since 1589. This opulent Baroque church is home to Caravaggio's famous trio of paintings: Vocazione di San Matteo (The Calling of St. Matthew), Martirio di San Matteo (Martyrdom of St. Matthew) and San Matteo e l'angelo (St. Matthew and the Angel), collectively known as the cycle Saint Matthew.

These three paintings, housed in the Cappella Contarelli to the left of the high altar, are among the earliest of Caravaggio's religious works, painted between 1600 and 1602, boasting realism and stunning use of chiaroscuro (bold contrast of light and dark).

Address: San Luigi dei Francesi, Piazza di San Luigi de’ Francesi, Rome, Italy.

Catacombs of Saint Sebastian

Catacombs of Saint Sebastian.

These underground catacombs, extending beneath the Basilica of San Sebastiano, were the first to be called catacombs - the name comes from the Greek kata (near) and kimbas (depression) because they were located next to a cave.

The catacombs have been in significant use since the 1st century, and during the persecutive reign of Vespasian they provided shelter for the remains of Saints Peter and Paul.

The 1st level is now almost completely destroyed, but on the 2nd level you can see frescoes, stucco and epigraphs. There are also three beautifully preserved mausoleums and a plastered wall with hundreds of invocations of Peter and Paul engraved by believers in the 3rd and 4th centuries.

Above the catacombs is the Basilica, a much altered 4th-century church that houses one of the arrows allegedly used to kill St. Sebastian and the column to which he was tied.

Address: Catacombe di San Sebastiano, Via Appia Antica, Rome, Italy.

Quirinal Palace. | Photo: Martha de Jong-Lantink / Flickr.

This huge palace overlooking the Piazza del Quirinale is the official residence of the head of the Italian state, namely the President of the Republic. For almost three centuries it was the summer residence of the pope, but in 1870 Pope Pius IX handed over the keys to the new king of Italy. Later, in 1948, the palace was transferred to the Italian state.

Address: Palazzo del Quirinale, Piazza del Quirinale, Rome, Italy.

This dazzling square was founded in 1538 and is located at the northern gate of Rome. Since then it has been rebuilt several times, most recently by Giuseppe Valadier in 1823. In the center of the square there is a 36-meter obelisk, which was brought by Augustus from ancient egypt, originally it stood in Circo Massimo.

Address: Piazza del Popolo, Piazza del Popolo, Rome, Italy.

Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere. | Photo: Scott Sherrill-Mix/Flickr.

Situated in a quiet corner of the central Piazza Trastevere, it is said to be the oldest church dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Rome. In its original form it dates from the early 3rd century, but underwent a major rebuilding in the 12th century with the addition of a Romanesque bell tower and a sparkling façade. The portico came later, added by Carlo Fontana in 1702. Inside there is a 12th century mosaic.

Address: Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, Rome, Italy.

Trunk Villa.

The Roman headquarters of the Sovereign Order of Malta, also known as the Cavalieri Di Malta (Knights of Malta), is located in a cypress-shaded square with one of the most famous views of Rome.

Address: Piazza Dei Cavalieri Di Malta, Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, Rome, Italy.

National Museum of Villa Giulia.

The 16th-century villa of Pope Julius III provides a charming setting for the exhibition of Italy's finest collections of Etruscan and Roman treasures. The artifacts, many of which come from tombs around the Lazio region, range from bronze figurines and black cutlery to temple decorations, terracotta vases and fine jewelry.

Attractions include a polychrome terracotta statue of Apollo from the temple of Veio and the Sarcofago degli Sposi (sarcophagus of the betrothed), found in 1881 at Cerveteri.

Address: Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia, Piazzale di Villa Giulia 9, Rome, Italy.

One of the world's most ancient civilizations, the Holy Roman Empire, gave humanity the greatest culture, which included not only a rich literary heritage, but also a stone chronicle. The people who inhabited this state have long ceased to exist, but thanks to the preserved architectural monuments, it is possible to recreate the way of life of the pagan Romans. On April 21, the day of the founding of the city on seven hills, I propose to look at 10 sights of Ancient Rome.

Roman forum

The area, located in the valley between the Palatine and Velia on the south side, the Capitol on the west, the Esquiline and the slopes of the Quirinal and Viminal, was a wetland during the pre-Roman period. Until the middle of the 8th century BC. e. this area was used for burials, and settlements were located on the nearby hills. The place was drained during the reign of King Tarquikia the Ancient, who turned it into a center of political, religious and cultural life townspeople It was here that the famous truce between the Romans and Sabines took place, elections to the Senate took place, judges sat and services were held.

From west to east, the sacred road of the empire runs through the entire Roman Forum - Via Appia, or Appian Way, along which there are many monuments from both ancient and medieval times. The Roman Forum contains the Temple of Saturn, the Temple of Vespasian and the Temple of Vesta.

The temple in honor of the god Saturn was erected around 489 BC, symbolizing the victory over the Etruscan kings from the Tarquin family. He died several times during fires, but was revived. The inscription on the frieze confirms that “The Senate and people of Rome restored what was destroyed by fire.” It was a majestic building, which was decorated with a statue of Saturn, it included the premises of the state treasury, an aerarium, where documents on state revenues and debts were kept. However, only a few columns of the Ionic order have survived to this day.

Construction of the Temple of Vespasian began by decision of the Senate in 79 AD. e. after the death of the emperor. This holy building was dedicated to the Flavians: Vespasian and his son Titus. Its length was 33 m, and its width extended to 22 m. Three 15-meter columns of the Corinthian order have survived to this day.

The Temple of Vesta is dedicated to the goddess of the hearth and was connected in ancient times to the House of the Vestals. In indoors The Holy Fire was constantly maintained. Initially, he was guarded by the king’s daughters, then they were replaced by vestal priestesses, who also held services in honor of Vesta. This temple contained a cache of symbols of the empire. The building was round in shape, the territory of which was bordered by 20 Corinthian columns. Despite the fact that there was an outlet for smoke in the roof, fires often broke out in the temple. It was saved and reconstructed several times, but in 394 Emperor Theodosius ordered it to be closed. Gradually the building deteriorated and fell into disrepair.

Trajan's Column

A monument of ancient Roman architecture, erected in 113 AD. by the architect Apollodorus of Damascus in honor of the victories of Emperor Trajan over the Dacians. The marble column, hollow inside, rises 38 m above the ground. In the “body” of the structure there is a spiral staircase with 185 steps leading to observation deck on the capitals.

The column's trunk is spiraled 23 times by a 190 m long ribbon with reliefs depicting episodes of the war between Rome and Dacia. Initially, the monument was crowned with an eagle, later - with a statue of Trajan. And in the Middle Ages, the column began to be decorated with a statue of the Apostle Peter. At the base of the column there is a door leading to the hall where the golden urns with the ashes of Trajan and his wife Pompeii Plotina were placed. The relief tells the story of Trajan's two wars with the Dacians, the period being 101–102. AD separated from the battles of 105–106 by the figure of a winged Victoria inscribing the name of the winner on a shield surrounded by trophies. It also depicts the movement of the Romans, the construction of fortifications, river crossings, battles, and the details of the weapons and armor of both troops are drawn in great detail. In total, there are about 2,500 human figures on the 40-ton column. Trajan appears on it 59 times. In addition to Victory, the relief also contains other allegorical figures: the Danube in the image of a majestic old man, Night - a woman with her face covered with a veil, etc.

Pantheon

The Temple of All Gods was built in 126 AD. e. under Emperor Hadrian on the site of the previous Pantheon, erected two centuries earlier by Marcus Vipsanias Agrippa. The Latin inscription on the pediment reads: “M. AGRIPPA L F COS TERTIUM FECIT" - "Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, elected consul for the third time, erected this." Located in Piazza della Rotonda. The Pantheon is distinguished by classical clarity and integrity of the composition of the internal space, and the majesty of the artistic image. Devoid of external decorations, the cylindrical building is crowned with a dome covered with discreet carvings. The height from the floor to the opening in the vault exactly corresponds to the diameter of the base of the dome, presenting amazing proportionality to the eye. The weight of the dome is distributed over eight sections that make up a monolithic wall, between which there are niches that give the massive building a feeling of airiness. Thanks to the illusion of open space, it seems that the walls are not so thick and the dome is much lighter than in reality. A round hole in the vault of the temple lets in light, illuminating the rich decoration of the interior space. Everything has reached our days almost unchanged.

Coliseum

One of the most significant buildings of Ancient Rome. The huge amphitheater took eight years to build. It was an oval building, along the perimeter of the arena there were 80 large arches, with smaller ones on them. The arena is surrounded by a wall of 3 tiers, and the total number of large and small arches was 240. Each tier was decorated with columns made in different styles. The first is of the Doric order, the second is of the Ionic order, and the third is of the Corinthian order. In addition, sculptures made by the best Roman craftsmen were installed on the first two tiers.

The amphitheater building included galleries intended for spectators to relax, where noisy merchants sold various goods. The outside of the Colosseum was decorated with marble, and there were beautiful statues along its perimeter. There were 64 entrances to the room, which were located on different sides of the amphitheater.

Below were privileged seats for the nobles of Rome and the throne of the emperor. The floor of the arena, where not only gladiator fights took place, but also real naval battles, was wooden.

Nowadays, the Colosseum has lost two-thirds of its original mass, but even today it is a majestic structure, being a symbol of Rome. No wonder the saying goes: “As long as the Colosseum stands, Rome will stand; if the Colosseum disappears, Rome will disappear and with it the whole world.”

Triumphal Arch of Titus

The single-span marble arch, located on the Via Sacra, was built after the death of Emperor Titus to commemorate the capture of Jerusalem in 81 AD. Its height is 15.4 m, width - 13.5 m, span depth - 4.75 m, span width - 5.33 m. The arch is decorated with half-columns of the composite order, four figures of Victoria, bas-reliefs depicting Titus controlling the quadriga, victorious a procession with trophies, including the main shrine of the Jewish temple - the menorah.

Baths of Caracalla

The baths were built at the beginning of the 3rd century AD. under Marcus Aurelius, nicknamed Caracalla. The luxurious building was intended not only for the washing process, but also for a variety of leisure activities, including both sports and intellectual. There were four entrances to the “bath building”; through the two central ones they entered the covered halls. On both sides there were rooms for meetings, recitations, etc. Among the many different rooms located on the right and left intended for washing rooms, it should be noted two large open symmetrical courtyards surrounded on three sides by a colonnade, the floor of which was decorated with the famous mosaic with figures of athletes. The emperors not only covered the walls with marble, covered the floors with mosaics and erected magnificent columns: they systematically collected works of art here. In the Baths of Caracalla there once stood the Farnese bull, statues of Flora and Hercules, and the torso of Apollo Belvedere.

The visitor found here a club, a stadium, a recreation garden, and a house of culture. Everyone could choose what they liked: some, after washing themselves, sat down to chat with friends, went to watch wrestling and gymnastic exercises, and could exercise themselves; others wandered around the park, admired the statues, and sat in the library. People left with a supply of new strength, rested and renewed not only physically, but also morally. Despite such a gift of fate, the baths were destined to collapse.

Temples of Portunus and Hercules

These temples are located on the left bank of the Tiber on another ancient forum of the city - the Bull. In early Republican times, ships moored here and there was a brisk livestock trade, hence the name.

The Temple of Portuna was built in honor of the god of ports. The building has a rectangular shape, decorated with Ionic columns. The temple has been well preserved since around 872 AD. was converted into the Christian church of Santa Maria in Gradelis, and in the 5th century it was consecrated into the church of Santa Maria Aegitiana.

The Temple of Hercules has a monopter design - a round building without internal partitions. The structure dates back to the 2nd century BC. The temple has a diameter of 14.8 m, decorated with twelve Corinthian columns 10.6 m high. The structure rests on a tuff foundation. Previously, the temple had an architrave and a roof, which have not survived to this day. In 1132 AD. the temple became a place of Christian worship. The church was originally called Santo Stefano al Carose. In the 17th century, the newly consecrated temple began to be called Santa Maria del Sol.

Champ de Mars

“Campus Martius” was the name of the part of Rome located on the left bank of the Tiber, originally intended for military and gymnastic exercises. In the center of the field there was an altar in honor of the god of war. This part of the field remained vacant subsequently, while the remaining parts were built up.

Mausoleum of Hadrian

The architectural monument was designed as a tomb for the emperor and his family. The mausoleum was a square base (side length - 84 m), in which a cylinder (diameter - 64 m, height about 20 m) was installed, topped with an earth mound, the top of which was decorated with a sculptural composition: the emperor in the form of the Sun god, controlling a quadriga. Subsequently, this gigantic structure began to be used for military and strategic purposes. Centuries have modified its original appearance. The building acquired the Angel's courtyard, medieval halls, including the Hall of Justice, the apartments of the Pope, a prison, a library, the Hall of Treasures and the Secret Archive. From the terrace of the castle, above which the figure of an Angel rises, a magnificent view of the city opens.

Catacombs

The Catacombs of Rome are a network of ancient buildings that were used as burial places, mostly during the period of early Christianity. In total, Rome has more than 60 different catacombs (150-170 km long, about 750,000 burials), most of which are located underground along the Appian Way. According to one version, the labyrinths of underground passages arose on the site of ancient quarries; according to another, they formed on private land plots. In the Middle Ages, the custom of burying in catacombs disappeared, and they remained as evidence of the culture of Ancient Rome.

A well-planned route is a guarantee of a successful trip, from which vivid memories will remain. Therefore, think in advance which attractions of Rome you want to see. Number of known historical places and there are so many architectural monuments in the capital of Italy that it is simply unrealistic to see them in one trip. Below is a small list of the most interesting places in Rome, once visited which you will fall in love with this city forever.

Source: PICSFAB.COM

The Colosseum is the visiting card of the Eternal City

To visit Rome and not visit the Colosseum is a kind of bad manners. This is what most tourists think, which is why there is usually a huge multinational queue at the Flavian Amphitheater (as the Colosseum is also called). Majestic ruins are all that remains of the largest ancient amphitheater, erected by the emperors Vespasian and Titus, and intended for gladiatorial fights. However, even in its dilapidated state, this place evokes awe.

Finding the Colosseum will not be difficult: any guide to Rome will tell you how to get there.

Source: rome-italy.ru

Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1.
Working hours :

• from 9.00 to 19.00 – from April to early October)
• from 9.00 to 15.00 – from January to March).

Ticket price: 12 euros (if you are not a resident of the European Union). This is how much a general ticket costs, valid for two days, and allowing you to visit not only the Colosseum, but also the Roman Forum and the Palatine.
Cost of a guided tour : 4.5 euros.

Source: youraudioguide.com

Trevi Fountain – a must have when visiting Rome

Rome is the city of fountains. But the most famous and largest of them is the Trevi Fountain. Almost every tourist traveling to the capital of Italy brings home a photograph taken against its background.

Designed in the Baroque style, this fountain is distinguished by the pomp and majesty inherent in this direction. The masterfully executed figures of gods, tritons, pegasi and other representatives of ancient mythology look so grandiose and monumental that it is impossible to ignore this place.

Address: Piazza de Trevi.

Source: dolcevita-magazine.com

Photo: Hernán Piñera. License: creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0

Photo: Steve Johnson. License: creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0

Source: evraziya.at.ua

The Roman Forum is a magnet for tourists

The forum was originally a part of the city, located in the lowlands between the hills and reserved for trade, but over time it became a place of more social and political importance. The ancient Romans came here to listen to rhetoricians, to be present during the consideration of criminal cases, executions, and resolution of disputes. Over time, sanctuaries in honor of ancient gods, arches and basilicas were built here, which over time fell into disrepair and today are ruins.

Address: Via della Salaria Vecchia, 5/6.
Ticket price :

• adult ticket – 12 euros,
• children and reduced rates – 8 euros.

Working hours :

• in March from 8.30 to 17.00;
• from April to August – until 19.15;
• in October – until 18.30;
• from November to February – until 16.30.

Photo: Jacob Surland, Licensed Creative Commons non-commercial v4.0.

Villa Borghese – a green oasis in a busy city

In the 17th century, by order of Cardinal Borghese, a landscape park was laid out in the northern part of the capital, on Pincio Hill. It housed the villa itself and many ancient statues, and a little later a lake was artificially created here. At the beginning of the 20th century, the territory of the park became the property of the city - since then this place has become one of the most visited by both residents of the capital and tourists. The park houses a number of museums, as well as a theater.

Source: travelermap.ru

How to get there : Climbing the steps of the Spanish Steps.
Address: Piazzale Flaminio.
Ticket price :

• Ordinary admission ticket– 8.5 euros;
• for beneficiaries - 5.25 euros.

Working hours: from 9.00 to 19.00 on all days except Monday.

Source: youraudioguide.com

Source: travelermap.ru

Galleria Borghese is an interesting place for art lovers

When visiting the Villa Borghese, admirers of beauty usually head to the gallery located here - a building erected in the spirit of classicism, which houses paintings and sculptures of such great painters and sculptors as Claude Monet, Lorenzo Lotto, Van Gogh, Rubens, Titian, Luigi Valadier, Giovanni Lorenzo Bernini and many others.

Source: snovadoma.ru

Working hours : from 9.00 to 19.00,
Ticket price: 13 euros.
Borghese Gallery website : www.galleriaborghese.it

Source: rimtravel.com

Source: saporitours.com

The Spanish Steps are a sign of friendship between the Spanish and French peoples in Rome

Taking a photo at the majestic Spanish Steps is one of the top things on the list of all tourists visiting Rome. At the foot of the stairs is the Piazza di Spagna, and if you climb the steps to the very top, you can go to the Trinità dei Monti church.

Source: guidesmart.tv

How to get there : Get off at Spagna metro station.
Address: Piazza di Spagna

Source: hipolletto.com

Source: hipolletto.com

Source: strana-italiya.ru

Baths of Caracalla - a monument of architecture and “bath art”

Baths occupied an important place in the ancient world. Citizens of Rome came here not only for swimming, but also to socialize and make business acquaintances. The Baths of Caracalla, with their marble cladding, mosaics and niches, were considered one of the most majestic buildings of this kind, therefore, even in ancient times, they were recognized as a miracle Eternal City.

Today, all that remains of the baths are ruins. Since 1937, it has hosted performances by opera singers, theatrical productions and concerts by contemporary world-famous performers.

Source: blog.bourse-des-vols.com

Working hours : from 9.00 until the end of daylight hours.
Address: Via delle Terme di Caracalla, 52.

Source: studyblue.com

Source: quotidianamente.net

Piazza del Popolo - a place with a relaxed atmosphere

Translated from Italian, Piazza del Popolo means “people's square”. Despite the fact that until the 20s of the 19th century it acted as a place for public executions, today a festive atmosphere reigns here, setting the mood for relaxation. Piazza del Popolo periodically hosts mass events; there are always a lot of citizens and visitors here.

How to get there : You need to get off at Flaminio metro station.

Photo: Fred PO, licensed under creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/

Source: thousandwonders.net

Fountain of the Four Rivers - a magnificent construction by the architect Bernini

The second most famous fountain in Rome (after Trevi) is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, located in Piazza Navona. The sculptural group is represented by allegorical images of four great rivers - the Danube, the Nile, the Ganges, and La Plata, which are located at the foot of the obelisk in the Egyptian style.

The fountain is located almost in the very center of the capital, so it is convenient to get here from almost every corner of the city.

Address: Piazza Navona

Source: italyguides.it

Capitoline Hill - the center of ancient and modern Rome

The Capitoline Hill is the gentlest and lowest of the seven hills on which Rome was built. At its foot, the ruins of the insula of Aracoeli have survived to this day - an apartment building from antiquity, which was built for renting out housing. The Capitoline Hill is decorated with the works of the genius Michelangelo Buonarotti - the Palace of Senators, which he reconstructed, the Cordonata staircase and a number of other buildings.

For free: inspection of Capitol Hill itself.
Paid: visiting the objects located on it.

Source: internoroma.ru

Capitoline Museums and their priceless collections

After a walk along the Capitoline Hill, it is worth looking into the museums located on it - Palazzo Nuovo, Palazzo dei Conservatori, Centrale Montemartini. They display masterpieces of world art - paintings by Rubens, Titian and other artists, famous ancient statues, a collection of Greek ceramics and many other must-see exhibits.

Source: travel.rambler.ru

Address: Piazza del Campidoglio, 1.
Working hours :

• daily, except Monday – from 9.00 to 13.00,
• on Saturday and Tuesday there are additional hours for visits - from 17.00 to 20.00.

Ticket price :

• 6.5 + 1.5 euros for visiting individual exhibitions;
• free for visitors under 18 and over 65 years of age.

Rome is one of the oldest cities in the world and a favorite holiday destination for millions of tourists. People come here to see with their own eyes the most famous sights of Rome and to touch the eternal with their own hands. Undoubtedly, most tourists associate Rome primarily with antiquity. However, few people know that the eternal city is ready to offer its guests an equally rich modern excursion program.

Historical sights of Rome

Perhaps the main attraction of Rome, which every tourist is in a hurry to visit. The uniqueness of the Vatican is, first of all, explained by its status, because it is, in fact, a separate state. In addition, here is the main Catholic church in the world and the residence of the Pope himself. On the territory of the city-state there are several remarkable museums, the collections of which contain unique sculptures and paintings. Also during a tour of the Vatican you can visit the famous Sistine Chapel and enjoy the incredible beauty of St. Peter's Basilica.

This architectural monument was built in 80 AD as an arena for gladiator fights. The amphitheater consists of 3 tiers, with a total height of 50 meters. The Colosseum is considered the largest amphitheater in the world and can accommodate up to 50 thousand spectators within its walls. Nowadays, this majestic structure bears the proud title of the most recognizable landmark of the city and is included in the list of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Check out the best attractions in Italy if you want to get to know the country better.

The place is known throughout the world as a temple dedicated to all gods. The Pantheon is considered one of the best objects of centric-dome architecture. The structure is made of concrete and brick and is topped with a hemispherical dome with a diameter of 43 meters. The highlight of the Pantheon is considered to be an unusual hole in the roof, through which at midday a ray of light penetrates, which you can even touch. Now the temple is used as a museum and as the resting place of famous people of Italy.

Another architectural landmark of the Italian capital. The first stone in the construction of the castle was laid more than 2 thousand years ago. Since then, the building has been reconstructed more than once and used as a castle, tomb, prison, papal residence and treasury. A tour of the castle includes visits to the Hall of Justice, the Secret Archives, the Treasure Hall and the Angel's Courtyard. The highlight of the castle is an unusual spiral-shaped gallery and a large terrace from which all the beauties of Rome can be seen.

It is impossible to imagine a list of the main historical places of Rome without the Vittoriano monument. It was erected in honor of the first king of Italy and is a symbol of friendship and reunification. The monument is located on Capitol Hill in the center of Venetian Square. Externally, Vittorio is an architectural composition that includes a monument to the Unknown Soldier, two bas-reliefs and several fountains. The façade of the building is decorated with 16 columns, above each of which there is a statue symbolizing a particular region of Italy.

Once the center of Italian political life, now the heart of the Old Town. It was here that during the existence of the Roman Empire the most significant state events were held, elections of consuls took place, new laws were proclaimed and victories in wars were celebrated. Initially, the forum included more than 10 buildings, most of which was destroyed over time. Only the ruins of the majestic building have survived to this day, which you can see by visiting the Museum under open air.

One of the main Roman attractions, on the site of which the first stone of the Ancient Empire was laid. The open-air complex includes the Capitol itself, the palaces and the adjacent square, built according to the design of Michelangelo himself. Here you can also visit the Capitoline Museum and look at the historical finds, sculptures and paintings presented in its collections.

The largest historical and archaeological monument of the Italian capital, dating back to the 3rd century AD. At one time, this place served not only as a bath complex, but also as a gathering center for representatives of high society. Here you could have a good rest, relax and at the same time make useful contacts. Nowadays, the Baths of Caracalla are used as a museum and a venue for performances of the Roman Opera.

One of the first triumphal arches in the world and a significant historical structure of the “eternal” city. Its opening was timed to coincide with the victory of Emperor Titus over the uprising in Jerusalem, which occurred in 81 AD. The arch is a 15x13 meter structure made of rare Pentel marble. The facade of the arch is decorated with bas-reliefs and half-columns, as well as historical inscriptions.

An important historical site of Rome, dating from the 2nd century AD. In terms of its significance, it can be compared with such sights as the Pantheon or the Colosseum. The column is a building 36 meters high, made of white marble. The column represents the victory of Emperor Trajan over the Dacians and tells the story of the history of Roman wars in general. At the foot of the column there is a small tomb in which they found their last refuge emperor and his wife.

Rome occupies a special place among European capitals. This is a symbolic city, the original city where Western civilization was born. The powerful Roman Empire, which subjugated the entire Mediterranean, began right here - on the banks of the Tiber River. The historical and cultural heritage of Rome is priceless; architectural and cultural masterpieces await tourists at every step.

Rome is home to the legendary Colosseum and treasures of museums, the historical ruins of the Capitol and the magnificent facades of Baroque villas. The entire city can be considered as an open-air museum; its streets and squares contain the history of three thousand years of civilization, thought, art and culture.

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What to see and where to go in Rome?

The most interesting and Beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.

1. Colosseum

The main arena of Ancient Rome, a theater for gladiator fights, baiting of captives with wild animals and other equally bloody performances of the annual Games of the capital of the Empire. In honor of the opening of the Colosseum in 80 AD. The Great Games were organized, which lasted more than 3 months. The ancient stones of the Arena still remember gladiators killed for the amusement of the public and slaves from captured provinces torn to pieces for pleasure.

2. Pantheon

Construction of the 2nd century BC, “temple of all gods” translated from Greek. The Pantheon was created during the peak period of ancient Roman architecture. For many centuries, pagan gods were worshiped under the dome of the building, until at the beginning of the 7th century the Pantheon was turned into a Christian temple. The building has survived to this day in good condition thanks to numerous restorations that began before the advent of our era.

3. Vatican

City-state, stronghold and main bastion of the Catholic Church, residence of the Pope. In total, about 800 people are citizens of the Vatican, mostly priests and church officials. The Vatican is famous for its museums, which house outstanding collections of painting, sculpture and applied art. This is a real treasury of humanity. Tourists are also attracted by the main Catholic church - St. Peter's Cathedral.

4. Cathedral and St. Peter's Square

St. Peter's Basilica is the spiritual center of the Catholic branch of Christianity. The Pope himself holds a festive mass here. The temple arose on the site of the former Circus of Nero in the 4th century. At first it was a small basilica where the relics of the Apostle Peter were kept. In the 15th century it was rebuilt into a grandiose building. Raphael, Michelangelo, Peruzzi, Maderno and others worked on St. Peter's Cathedral. In front of the temple there is a wide square with a colonnade of 284 Doric columns.

5. Vatican Museums

Museum collections were collected at different times by the popes of Rome. They were founded in the 16th century by Pope Julius II. An extensive exhibition of paintings from the 11th to 19th centuries is collected in the Vatican Pinacoteca. You can get acquainted with tapestries and frescoes by great masters by visiting the Sistine Chapel and the Stanzas of Raphael. Antique statues and sarcophagi from Ancient Rome are presented in the Chiaramonti and Pio Cristiano museums. The history of religions around the world is described by exhibits of the Ethnological Missionary Museum. The history of the Vatican is presented in the Historical Museum. The Vatican Library contains more than one and a half million books. Visits are open daily, except Sundays and Catholic holidays.

6. Vittoriano

Memorable architectural complex of the 18th-19th centuries. in honor of King Victor Emmanuel, the first ruler of a united Italy. On the site in front of the monumental palace, the Eternal Flame burns and an honor guard is on duty. Residents of Rome are not too fond of this mass of white marble, as they believe that it does not fit into the architecture of the city. Some Romans call Vittoriano the ridiculous “wedding cake.”

7. Trastevere

A bright and colorful Roman quarter across the Tiber River. Here in the 18th century BC. A tribe of Etruscans settled, with whom the history of the Eternal City began. During the era of the Empire, luxurious villas of patricians stood here. There are many buildings and residential buildings for many hundreds of years, so they look very authentic and attractive to tourists. People continue to live in dilapidated houses.

8. Piazza Navona

An oval square in the central part of Rome, located on the site of the former Circus of Domitian. Since the 16th century, ambassadors, cardinals, bankers and other wealthy representatives of society began to settle in this area. From the 15th century to the mid-19th century, there was a market here. In the middle of the square is the Fountain of Four Rivers, a sculptural group with deep symbolic meaning. In the middle of the composition stands an obelisk, symbolizing the power of the Pope. Around the obelisk there are sculptures representing the rivers of the four continents.

9. Piazza del Popolo

Loosely translated into Italian, the name of this place sounds like “people's square.” Piazza del Popolo played an important role in the life of Rome, since the road to the northern provinces began from here. The square is decorated with the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo and the Egyptian obelisk of Ramses II. The piazza received its modern look at the beginning of the 19th century, the architect D. Valadier worked on it.

10. Castel Sant'Angelo

The construction of the building began back in the era of the Roman Empire in the 2nd century AD. During its existence, it served as the papal home, prison, warehouse and even tomb. Today, the fortress houses the Military History Museum. The castle received this name in the 6th century AD. after the image of the Archangel Michael appeared to Pope Gregory. Directly from the castle across the Tiber River picturesque bridge, which was built under Emperor Hadrian. The bridge provided the shortest route to the Champ de Mars.

11. Roman Forum

The very heart of Ancient Rome, where important state and social events took place - the fate of laws was decided, consuls were elected, the triumphs of emperors took place after victorious wars. After the fall of the Empire, the forum was destroyed and devastated, and time did its work, so only fragments have survived to this day. The remains of the forum are part of a protected archaeological zone, where there is an open-air museum.

12. Forum of Trajan

The forum appeared at the turn of the 2nd-1st centuries. BC. In those days it was big square, surrounded by a market, the temple of Emperor Trajan, Greek and Latin libraries. The 38-meter Trajan's Column made of Carrara marble has survived to this day. Inside the column is the tomb of the emperor himself and his wife. Trajan's Forum is the last structure of its type built in Rome.

13. Baths of Caracalla

Remains of ancient Roman baths along the Appian Way. The culture of visiting baths was well developed in the Roman Empire. People came here to chat, find out the latest news or conduct business negotiations. The Baths of Caracalla were built in the 3rd century AD. under Emperor Septimius Bassian Caracalla. Already in the 5th century AD. this architectural complex began to be considered a real wonder of the world. In addition to baths and pools, there was a library here.

14. Arch of Constantine

The triumphal arch erected by Emperor Constantine in honor of the victory in the civil war over the troops of his rival Marcus Aurelius Valerius Maxentius. It was under Constantine that Christianity became the official religion (the ruler believed that God himself helped him come to power), the capital of the Empire was moved to Constantinople, and Rome gradually began to lose its former power and decline.

15. Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano

One of the most ancient Christian churches, the first temple of Rome. In the church hierarchy it is above all others, even above St. Peter's Basilica. Catholic hierarchs awarded it the title “basilica major,” that is, “elder.” She is recognized as "the head and mother of all churches." The temple appeared during the reign of Constantine under Pope Sylvester I in the 4th century AD. The basilica contains the burial places of six Popes and the relics of the apostles St. Paul and St. Peter.

16. San Paolo fuori le Mura

Temple of the 4th century AD, erected on the burial site of the Apostle St. Peter, who was executed by order of Emperor Nero in the 1st century AD. The building was rebuilt several times under the emperors Theodosius I and Valentian II. Almost every Catholic Pope has tried to bring temple complex something of its own, so over time, San Paolo fuori le Mura expanded in size and added new extensions.

17. Santa Maria Maggiore

One of the four main Catholic churches in Rome. It has a very high status in the ecclesiastical rank of cathedrals (the highest status is assigned to the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano). The first stone of the foundation of Santa Maria Maggiore was laid in the middle of the 4th century. In the 14th century, the church received a 75-meter high bell tower. The facade, which has survived to this day, is a mixture of Romanesque and Baroque styles.

18. Church of Il Gesu

The main Jesuit temple in Rome, where Grand Master Ignatius of Loyola is buried. The first design of the temple was developed by Michelangelo, but the head of the order did not like it. In 1561, another architect, Giacomo Barozzi, began construction according to his own plan. Before the abolition of the Jesuit Order at the end of the 18th century, considerable wealth was stored in the Church of Il Gesu. The temple building itself was taken away from the organization. Only after 1814 was it returned.

19. Basilica of St. Clement

A unique archaeological site. The church consists of three levels. The lowest one was discovered in the 19th century and represents buildings from the 1st century AD. Frescoes and remains of decor have been preserved here. The second level is an early Christian church from the 4th century. The top level is a 12th-century basilica, with a Baroque facade, an atrium and a fountain inside. The interior decoration is rich, the walls are painted with frescoes from the 18th century.

20. San Pietro in Vincoli

The name of the church translates as “St. Peter in chains.” It is located on the square of the same name and was founded in the 5th century as a storage place for the chains with which the holy apostle was bound. Here is the tomb of Pope Julius II, designed by Michelangelo. The famous sculpture “Moses” is rightfully considered one of the main decorations of the tomb. Also buried in the church is the artist Antonio Polaiolo.

21. Church of Sant'Ignazio

The religious building of the Jesuit order in baroque style was built in 1626. It is located in Piazza Ignatius Laiola and is dedicated to this saint, who founded the order (he served as the prototype of Don Quixote). The church consists of many chapels, decorated with columns, arches and voluminous stucco. Numerous frescoes tell about the life of Saint Ignatius. The flat ceiling is decorated with frescoes in such a way that it creates the illusion of a domed structure.

22. Santa Maria in Trastevere

According to supposed data, this church was the first Christian temple in Rome. Its foundation dates back to the 3rd century AD. Located on the square of the same name in the Trastevere district. The building is rightfully considered a pearl of medieval architecture: the facade with arches and columns is decorated with colorful mosaics of the 12th century. The inside of the church is built according to the principle of a classical basilica. In addition to Catholic icons, Christian icons are also kept here.

23. Capitoline Museum

The world's first museum was founded in 1471, when Pope Sixtus IV gave the people of Rome a collection of antique bronzes. It is located on the Capitoline Square, designed by Michelangelo, in three palaces. The New Palace houses an exhibition of classical sculpture. The Palace of the Conservatives houses world-famous ancient statues, a collection of Renaissance paintings, and a collection of coins. The main part of the Palace of Senators is occupied by the City Hall of Rome; the first floor is reserved for the museum.

24. National Museum of Rome

Represents museum complex, located in four buildings. Palazzo Massimo houses exhibitions of ancient Roman jewelry, coins, as well as sarcophagi, frescoes and mosaics. Palazzo Altemps bears the name of its first owner, Cardinal Altemps. His personal collection of works of art is exhibited here, as well as a collection of ancient sculptures and an Egyptian exhibition. The Balbi Crypt houses ancient Roman artifacts found during excavations. The building itself of the Baths of Deoclitian is already a unique architectural monument. Various exhibitions are held here, there are also permanent exhibition ancient sculptures, manuscripts and archaeological finds.

25. Doria Pamphilj Gallery

The private collection is exhibited in the Palazzo Doria Pamphili, on one of the main streets of old Rome. It began to be collected in 1651. The palace is the largest private palace in the city. The most widely represented are paintings by Italian painters of the 17th century. An interesting gallery of sculptures, a rich collection of antique furniture and fabrics. In total, more than 500 pieces are presented here, in six main halls.

26. Rome Opera House

The first name is the Constanzi Theater, after the name of its founder. The theater opened in 1880; in the 20th century, the building was acquired by the city authorities and partially rebuilt twice. World premieres of great composers took place on this stage, and the best voices in the world performed. Currently, both opera and ballet performances and concerts take place here. There is a ballet school attached to the theater.

27. Capuchin Museum and Crypt

Santa Maria della Canchezione is a small Roman church with a modest façade. However, the place is attractive for tourists. The Roman cardinal Antonio Barberini, a member of the Capuchin order, is buried here. Under the church there is a burial place for monks; the walls of the crypt are decorated with bones and skulls of more than 4,000 thousand who died from 1528 to 1780. Since 2012, a Capuchin museum has been organized here: the exhibits tell about the history, traditions and secrets of the ancient Order.

28. Catacombs of Rome

Numerous underground galleries and labyrinths that lie beneath the surface of Rome. Many pre-Christian burials have been discovered here, but the foundations of some of the underground passages were created in the era of early Christianity. The first companions of Jesus hid in these dungeons. Here they held religious ceremonies, meetings, and prayer services without the danger of being discovered and caught.

29. Pyramid of Cestius

It is believed that the structure was erected in the 1st century BC. It served for burial purposes - here is the tomb of the praetor Gaius Cestius Epulus. Construction took place during the period of the conquest of Egypt, when the fashion for the “Egyptian style” appeared in Ancient Rome. At that time, obelisks, sculptures and other monuments were removed from the Nile Valley. The Pyramid of Cestius reaches 37 meters in height and almost 30 meters in width.

30. Big Circus

Ancient hippodrome between the Palatine and Aventine hills. During the Roman Empire, chariot races were held here. Under Emperor Gaius Julius Caesar, the circus was rebuilt and grew to a fairly large size. More than 250 thousand people could watch the spectacle at the same time. In the spectator sector there were boxes for patricians and standing places for plebeians.

31. Appian Way

One of the most important roads of the Roman Empire, which led from the Eternal City to the south of the Apennine Peninsula. The total length of the route is more than 500 km. Construction of the road began in the 4th century. Thanks to the excellent quality of the pavement, the Appian Way made it possible to quickly reach places remote from the capital or transfer troops in a fairly short time. The road surface has survived to this day in very good condition.

32. Villa Borghese

A 16th-century palace built for Cardinal Scipione Borghese on the site of former vineyards. The building is surrounded by a huge English-style park with numerous antique statues. On the territory there is a hippodrome, a zoo, a theater and several museums. Until the beginning of the 20th century, the mansion with the park belonged to the Borghese family, then all the property went to the state.

33. Villa Medici

Located on the slope of Pincio Hill on the site of the former gardens of Lucullus. In the middle of the 16th century, the area near the hill became the property of Cardinal Medici, who built a villa-residence here for his family. After the extinction of the Medici dynasty, the house and surrounding lands went to the Lorraine family. Cardinal Medici acquired many works of ancient art to decorate the villa. Some examples can be admired in the Uffizi Gallery.

34. Spanish Steps

Staircase in Italian Baroque style in the center of Rome. It is recognized as one of the most picturesque in Europe. The stairs start at Plaza de España and lead up to Pincio Hill. The Plaza de España itself is a very expressive place where it is always pleasant to stroll among the flowering flower beds. In the 17th century, the Spanish embassy was located here. As a sign of good relations between the two countries, the piazza was named after Spain.

35. Trevi Fountain

The most famous Roman fountain of the 18th century, where every guest of the city is simply obliged to throw a coin for good luck. Several thousand euros worth of coins are thrown in every week. All money is given to a charitable foundation. The sculptural composition of the fountain consists of the figure of the sea god Neptune on a chariot and his companions. 16 architects fought for the right to work on the construction of the fountain.