Rome Facts

The subject of an endless number of historic plays and movies, the stories surrounding Rome have permeated the depths of Western culture. From The Vatican to the Colosseum, Rome's deep history and cultural significance is evidenced by every monument and palazzo. Seeing Rome as it is today, it may be hard to imagine that this sprawling metropolis began with a small settlement of shepherds and farmers near the Tiber River on Palatino. It is said that Palatino is where Romulus founded the city and where Augustus, the first Emperor, built his home. The old city occupied six other hills (Quirinale, Viminale, Esquilino, Celio, Aventino and Capitolino), though the modern city extends far beyond those...

...is the Eternal City, it is also a city with no end of ruins. It's impossible to see all of the temples and monuments from previous empires, try as you might, so begin with the Pantheon, the Colosseum and St. Peter's Basilica and see how far you get. But for the true flavor of Rome, make time to linger over a glass of Chianti wine. Visit its fountains in the moonlight. These experiences are as much a part of the city as the Roman Forum.

Things to Do

Rome boasts one grand tourist attraction after another, but the Roman Forum and its neighbor, the Colosseum, stay with you forever. True, most of these ancient archways, temples and aqueducts are little more than ruins, but the grandeur that was...