As they say, all roads lead to Rome (Roma). So my road finally brought me to the capital of Italy. Unfortunately, this time only for one day.

Rome is one of the most visited cities in the world. The eternal city has been attracting everyone for 2,767 years. The exact official date of the founding of Rome is known - 753 BC. However, archaeological research proves that a settlement has existed at this place since time immemorial.

So much has been said and written about Rome that it seems like a familiar city even to those who have never been to it.

Many chapters of school textbooks in different languages ​​are devoted to the sights of Rome. Even an inveterate poor student will definitely remember that Rome has at least the Colosseum and the Pantheon.

Probably not a single person knows all the sights of Rome. To see all the monuments Of the eternal city one life is not enough. And what can you really see in Rome in one day?

The very first impression of the capital of Italy is the shock of the crowd of people from all over the world in the Vatican museums. It was expected that there would be many people everywhere in Rome as well. Fortunately, this was not the case.

I must say that for a city of three million people, Rome is not crowded enough. Pandemonium was actually observed besides the Vatican only at the Trevi Fountain and at the Spanish Steps. On a weekday, I was surprised by the traffic - Moscow motorists can only dream of such free roads.

The Colosseum is considered the main attraction of Rome, the symbol of the city. It seems wrong to me what is terrible black place(for a woman, his ingenious engineering idea is not so important) has become a symbol of a beautiful city, where, in addition to bloody spectacles, so much positive and beautiful took place and is happening on the arena of the Colosseum!

Probably, these walls turned black from the horror that they happened to see. In my opinion, you should come to the Colosseum with flowers ... Or even bypass this terrible place ...

The famous Roman forums seem to be falling more and more into ruins.

In addition to time, the remains of ancient Roman structures are being finished by modern ecology.

We ran through the Roman forums just at a gallop - we wanted to have time to see as much as possible.

In general, in Rome, everyone is in a hurry somewhere, and at the same time everywhere on the steps of stairs, by the fountains, and sometimes just on the sidewalks you meet people who are not in a hurry, but just sit and relax.

II Vittoriano is a huge 135-meter high neoclassical structure of snow-white marble, located on the northern slope of the Capitol Hill. The building is national monument the first king of a united Italy, Victor Emmanuel II.

The building was built in the years 1885-1911, while several medieval churches and ancient Roman ruins were demolished.

The roof of the building is an excellent observation deck. Next time I will definitely climb there!

On a weekday, motorcycles are parked everywhere on the streets of Rome, this form of transport in the city is very popular.

Rome is a city of museums. Here you can simply walk along the streets, looking into various courtyards, each time being surprised by new discoveries.

Rome is called the city of fountains; no other city in the world has so many of them. The most famous and beautiful and also the largest baroque fountain in Rome is the Trevi Fountain.

With difficulty making their way through the crowd of people, they threw coins into the fountain. Although I don't like big cities, I flipped a coin with a sincere desire to return to Rome and see the city better.

The famous Spanish Steps (Scalinata Spagna), leading to the Trinita dei Monti church, is another place in Rome that is always crowded. This is the longest and widest staircase in Europe. The staircase with 138 baroque steps is made in the shape of butterfly wings.

The square below is named Spanish, since the Spanish embassy is located nearby. There is a baroque fountain in the square called Fontana della Barcaccia (old boat fountain).

Climbing the steps of the stairs, we visited the Trinita dei Monti church and walked along the street, from the height of which they open good views to Rome.

Looking at Rome from a height, we were once again convinced that we almost did not see anything in the city in one day ...

It should be noted that in addition to the abundance of monuments in Rome, there are many green squares and parks.

At the end of October, multi-colored bougainvillea finished flowering.

Piazza Del Popolo (People's Square) - last place where we visited in Rome.

We barely made it there, we couldn't find the strength to walk to the nearby Pantheon ...

On the square is the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo, hence the name of the square. Piazza del Popolo has always been and to this day is a place through which travelers from the north must have passed when entering and leaving Rome. So we returned from here to Emilia-Romagna.

One of 9 Roman obelisks is located in the square. This obelisk once belonged to Pharaoh Ramses II. Starting from 10 BC. the obelisk is located at this place.

To the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo (Santa Maria del Popolo) I dropped in with my last bit of strength just before leaving. A very beautiful and interesting church, it is rumored that one of the first Gospels translated into the Slavic language is kept here.

According to the existing legend, the church of Santa Maria del Popolo appeared on the burial place of the Roman emperor Nero, in whose tomb the ghost of the deceased appeared. Pope Paschal II ordered to build a church on this place, and to throw the remains of Nero into the river. The money for the construction of the church was collected all over Rome, so the church was called "del Popolo" - "popular". The first church was built in 1099, in the 15th century the temple was completely reconstructed by the best masters of the Renaissance. The altar is now adorned with Raphael's painting Madonna del Popolo.

In Piazza del Popolo, there are also two replica churches of St. Mary of the Miracles and St. Mary of Montesanto. We didn't crawl there ...

They say you have to pull the tail of the stone lion in Rome for good luck.
I don’t know if I pulled the one I needed or not ... In Rome there are those lions, and not only lions ... I will definitely return to Rome!

Rome is the city of seven hills. The southernmost of them - the Aventine - is located on one of the banks of the Tiber and has sheltered many attractions. Usually tourists go to the Aventine to look at the ruins of the ancient circus, the Cestius pyramid, admire the temples of San Sabina (5th century), Sant'Allecio (4th century) and others. And few people know that there is a unique keyhole at the top of the hill, in the square of the Knights of Malta. Looking into it, you can see three sovereign state formations at once - Italy, the Vatican and the Order of Malta.

The address: Aventino hill

2. Orange Garden on Aventine

Going to the Aventine just for the sake of some "hole", of course, is stupid. This place is also one of the most romantic places in Rome - Savello Park. Although the locals rarely use this name, for the Romans it is the Orange Garden on the Aventine.

It was founded in 1932 on the site where the Savelli family fortress was once (hence the name). Remains of this ancient structure can still be found among the trees.

Wonderful orange groves, slender cypress alleys and blooming oleanders create a unique atmosphere of tranquility. In addition, the garden ends with a terrace with beautiful views of the Tiber, Trastevere, Janiculum and the Vatican.

P.S. Inedible oranges are wild.

The address: L'Aventino, Circo Massimo, Viadi Santa Sabina

3. Bartolucci store

For many decades, in the Bartolucci family, the secrets of carpentry have been passed down from generation to generation: from grandfather to father, from father to son. After all, the family business is on their shoulders - the wooden workshop Bartolucci.

Everything in this shop is made of wood: from the Pinocchio cyclist who meets visitors at the entrance to women's jewelry. Toys, frames, boxes, watches, an exact replica of a motorcycle (!) And, of course, all kinds of Log Boy figurines - eyes run up from a variety of wooden crafts. You will definitely not leave this store without a souvenir.

The address: Via dei Pastini, 98.
Site: bartolucci.com
Working hours: daily from 12:00 to 20:00

4. Via dei Condotti

In the center of the Italian capital lies one of the oldest and most famous Roman streets. In ancient times, it connected the Pincho Hill with the Tiber and crossed the Flaminian Way. Her name is Via Day Condotti.

Since the 18th century, this street began to acquire an aura of glitter and "glamor" - fashionable shops and ateliers grew there like mushrooms after a rain. The street now houses boutiques of the world's most prestigious brands - Valentino, Armani, Hermès, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Gucci, Prada, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana and Salvatore Ferragamo. The oldest of the fashionable establishments of Via Dei Condotti is the Bulgari atelier, opened more than a century ago, in 1905.

Other attractions of this street include house number 11, where one of the inventors of the radio, Guglielmo Marconi, lived; house number 68 - the residence of the Grand Master of the Order of Malta; as well as the famous cafe "Antico Kaffe Greco", where Lord Byron himself, Goethe, Liszt and Stendhal drank coffee.

The address: strada Via dei Condotti, tra Piazza di Spagna e Via del Corso
Wiki: Via dei Condotti

5. Market Porta Portese

If the splendor and prices of Via dei Condotti suddenly make you feel bad, immediately go to the Trastevere area to one of the largest European flea markets (more than 1350 stalls).

It starts at the gates of Porta Portese (which is why it is called that) and stretches along two streets - Via Ippolito Nievo and Via Portuense. It arose in the middle of the last century, after the end of World War II - unemployment and inflation forced people to sell personal belongings in order to somehow feed their families.

What do they sell at Porta Portese today? In short, EVERYONE. Antique books, picture frames, furniture, used clothes, gramophones, telephones, toys, dishes, reproductions of paintings, watches (all kinds), military stripes ... If you wish, you can find any, including rare, goods. Prices, as it is supposed in the market, do not bite, and you can always negotiate with traders.

The address: Via Portuense & Ippolito Nievo
Working hours: every Sunday

The ancient Romans said "Habent sua fata libelli", which means "Books have their own destiny." This dictum means that one should not rashly judge literary works (perhaps descendants will appreciate Daria Dontsova's “masterpieces” at their true worth).

Like a silent reminder of this wisdom - the Roman Fountain of Books (aka the Fountain of Science or the Fountain of Knowledge), created by the sculptor Pietro Lombardi and dedicated to Thomas Aquinas. It represents two piles of books with bookmarks and a deer head between them. This unusual fountain is located not far from the masterpiece of the Roman Baroque, the 17th century Catholic church - Sant Ivo alla Sapienza, which is part of the Borromini University of Rome.

The address: Via degli Staderari

7. Square Colosseum

This place is not included in any of the travel guides to Rome for political reasons. The quarter of the world exhibition - Esposizione Universale Roma or EUR - was erected in the south-west of Rome in 1943-1945 by order of the Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. The occasion was the twentieth anniversary of fascism and the world fair, scheduled for 1942.

One of the symbols of the "fascist era" was the Palace of Italian Civilization (Palazzo della Civilta Italiana), better known as the "Colosseum Square" (Colosseo Quadrato). There really is something similar to the ancient amphitheater: for example, loggias on the facade of the palace, located in six rows of nine arches each. As it should be structures of this type, marble palace impressive in size - height 68 m., area - 8 400 sq. m.

The World Exhibition in Rome did not take place then, and the EURO quarter and the "Square Colosseum" are still standing. By the way, the latter has appeared on the cinema screens more than once (for example, in "The Last Man on Earth" in 1964).

The address: Via Cristoforo Colombo, 559
Wiki: World's Fair Quarter

8. Pizzeria "At Buffetto"

What is Italy without pizza? One of the most delicious is prepared in the Pizzeria Da Baffetto restaurants (there are only two of them in Rome). It is a family business, run by Buffetto's grandfather for half a century. He knows a lot about pizza: the dough should be thin and fluffy, and the filling should be fresh and juicy.

Tourists have a life hack: go to places where locals eat. So, "At Buffetto's" both those and others are happy to dine. After all, for 20-25 euros you get first-class Italian pizza, hot (prepared right in front of the visitors), beer and good mood. The only problem is that getting into this pizzeria is not so easy because of the huge lines.

Addresses: Via del Governo Vecchio, 114 e Piazza del Teatro di Pompeo, 18 (Baffetto 2)
Site: pizzeriabaffetto.it

9. Museum of Art of the XXI century

The National Museum of Art of the XXI Century (MAXXI) - quite young (opened in May 2010), but, as expected, ambitious. The MAXXI building occupying 27 thousand square meters. and affectionately called "macaroni" by the Romans, was erected by Zaha Hadid on the site of the Montello barracks. The construction cost 150 million euros, but Rome now has a museum of the future.

Or rather art and architecture of the future. The MAXXI exhibition halls display photographs, installations, prototypes and models of houses, streets and entire cities in which we will live in a couple of decades. In addition, the museum has a conference room, library and workshop. Do you want to imagine the future of your children? Travel to Rome's National Museum of 21st Century Art.

The address: via Guido Reni, 4 A, metro station Flaminio
Site: fondazionemaxxi.it
Working hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday - from 11:00 to 19:00; Thursday, Saturday - from 11:00 to 22:00

Italy is the birthplace of Ferrari. Its headquarters are located in Maranello, and in the capital is the largest store of the world famous brand. This place will drive car fans crazy: key rings, watches, shoes, clothes, toys and hundreds of other items with Ferrari symbols.

The name, of course, comes at a price. Prices, to put it mildly, bite: 150 euros for a trinket with a rearing stallion; 300 for the signature racing gloves and 1,500 for the sparkling red toy car.

By the way, you can also ride a real Ferrari along the streets of Rome - the rental service is very popular there.

The address: Via Tomacelli, 147
Site: store.ferrari.com
Working hours: daily from 10:00 to 20:00

11. Cloaca Maxima

The exact date of its construction is not known for certain (either IV or VII century BC), but it is definitely one of the most ancient and unique such structures. The sewage system in Rome began to be actively built under Lucius Tarquinius Prisca, who paid great attention to the city's infrastructure.

It was during his reign that the construction of the Great Cloaca is most often credited. For this, Etruscan craftsmen were invited and a canal 800 m long, 3 meters wide and 4 meters high was dug between the Palatine and Capitol hills. Initially, Cloaca Maxima was open, then covered with wooden flooring and then paved with gabia stone.

To this day, despite its venerable age, the Great Cloaca is in fairly good condition and serves as a storm runoff.

The address: exits under the Ponte Rotto and Palatinsky bridges.
Wiki: Cloaca maxima

12. Panoramic platform Gianicolo

Aventine, Viminal, Capitol, Quirinal, Palatine, Celium, Esquiline ... Stop! Where is Gianicolo? Alas, this peak is not among the famous seven Roman hills, as it is historically located outside the city walls. And in vain, because there are also many ancient monuments here: the monastery of Sant-Onofrio, the Gianicolo lighthouse, Villa Aurelia and others.

But the main reason for visiting the Gianicolo Hill is observation deck... It offers just a crazy view of His Majesty Rome.

The address: Gianicolo, Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi

13. Gelateria Blue ice

Gelateria Blu Ice is a chain of ice cream parlors. The Romans say, and the tourists confirm, that these are the places where the best Italian ice cream is. These cafes don't just sell - they produce ice cream. Therefore, in Blu Ice, an ice treat is always fresh for every taste - with fruits, nuts, chocolate, puffed rice, coconut flakes ...

The prices are quite reasonable - from 150 to 350 rubles. Another undoubted plus - the cafe is open at night. So blu Ice gelateria is a paradise not only for children, but also for adults, among whom, as you know, oh, how many have a sweet tooth.

Addresses:

• Via di S. Prassede, 11 / bis;
• Via dei Baullari, 130;
• Viale dei Due Macelli, 29;
• Viale Ottaviano, 7;
• Via S. Agnese in Agone, 20;
• Via Sistina, 122 and others.

Site: blueiceitalia.com
Working hours: daily from 10:00 to 2:00

Art lovers will not be bored in Rome - the Vatican Museum, Galleries Borghese, Barberini and dozens of other exquisite places. However, for lovers of spicy foods (in this case, in literally words) sensations also have something to visit in the capital of Italy - they are waiting for the Museo Criminologico.

This is a building of a former prison, and now a historical exposition, which tells about criminals and applied to them in different times penalties. So, in ancient Rome, they did not stand on ceremony with offenders: they were executed, given to slaves or appointed a gladiator.

During the time of the Inquisition, there were different methods of justice:

In short, in this museum you may learn more about Good and Evil than in any art museum.

The address: via Gonfalone, 29

15. Cat shelter

“Roman cats. Shelter for stray cats. Visit "- a strange inscription at the entrance to the excavations of the temple complex of the times of the Roman Republic, which is in Torre Argentina Square.

Nevertheless, the fact remains: stray cats live among the remains of ancient temples and dilapidated statues. And on a completely legal basis. When local residents and authorities found out that the stray tailed mustachioed creatures had chosen the Argentine ruins, they decided not to drive away the cats, but to organize a shelter for them. Now there are several hundred inhabitants, which are looked after by volunteers. Each visitor to this unusual cattery can help the animals with “rubles” (in the sense of the euro) by buying local souvenirs.

The address: Largo di Torre Argentina

16. Costantini Enoteca

Continuing the theme gastronomic travel one cannot help but talk about Italian wine. There are 20 regions in this sunny country and each (!) Of them produces its own wine. Its unique wine, distinguished by its taste, aroma, terroir and production technologies.

You can taste different varieties of Italian wines in the Costantini enoteca. This is a real treasury of wine, where thousands of bottles, different brands and aging are kept. Wine can be bought and taken with you, or tasted on the spot at a local restaurant.

The address: Piazza Cavour 16
Site: pierocostantini.it
Working hours: Monday from 16:30 to 20:00; Tuesday-Saturday - from 9:00 to 13:00 and from 16:30 to 20:00

17. Monument to the Pope

In Rome, not far from the Termini train station, there is a monument to John Paul II. Such a solid sculpture - 5.50 m in height, real bronze, silver plating. It would seem what is special here, where, if not in the capital, to erect monuments to the Pope?

But the inhabitants of the Eternal City rebelled - "We don't need such a Pope!" The Romans did not like the appearance of the pontiff: a round, like a ball, head and almost complete absence of a neck. At the same time, the pose of the monument, as conceived by the author, symbolizes the universal care of John Paul II for humanity.

Robert De Niro, who played one of the members of the Sicilian crime family Corleone, once said: “Italy has changed a long time ago. But Rome is Rome. "

Indeed, it is difficult for a city with a thousand-year history to change. And it is not easy for a tourist who comes to the capital of Italy to see another, not only historical, Rome. We hope that with our help you will succeed.

Share in the comments the unique Roman places you know and must see.

Which in the III century BC began to be called "the greatest eternal city" - this is the dream of millions of travelers from different parts of our planet who dream of seeing with their own eyes a lot of ancient sights.

Short description

Attractions, including a huge number of historical and architectural monuments, which reflect the former greatness and power of the Great Roman Empire. Thanks to sociological research, experts concluded that it is Rome that is considered the most visited city in the world... The legend of the Roman Empire, its capital, where passions seethed, the fate of many states was decided, is located on seven hills. Rome stretches on both sides of the well-known Tiber River. The climate in the capital is Mediterranean: in summer it is quite hot here, the temperature sometimes exceeds +40 degrees Celsius, and winters are mild and mostly rainy.

Santa Maria Maggiore

On the territory of modern Rome, in addition to sights, ancient ruins, the stones of which still remember the voices of Caesar, Nero and other emperors, there is a state within a state, the name of which every Catholic knows - the Vatican. Even the most experienced guides who conduct excursions around the "eternal city" often work out the route for a long time, because it is very difficult to understand what exactly I would like to show to the guest of the capital.

In Rome, literally everything causes genuine delight even among travelers who come to this city not for the first time. Here, literally at every step, you can stumble upon a unique landmark, which is centuries old. The Roman Forum, or the grandeur, wealth and luxury of the Vatican, or maybe the dome of St. Peter, in the image of which the dome of the Capitol in Washington was built, Piazza Navona or the Altar of the Fatherland - all this will certainly leave an indelible impression on any guest of the Italian capital.

Trajan's market

A bit of history

You can talk about the ups and downs, about the destruction and rebirth of Rome for an infinitely long time. And how is it possible, even in three or five materials, to reflect at least some part of the history of not only the city, but also the entire huge, at one time, empire, the fate of which has always been inextricably linked with the capital. The only thing I would like to dwell on is that in the 19th century, great Rome was still conquered by the most talented strategist and conqueror Napoleon.

It was he who decided to expel the Pope and "put on the throne" his newborn son. However, already in 1870, the Italians regained Rome and once again proclaimed it the capital, however, now not an empire, but a kingdom. It is also worth paying special attention to the fact that it was on the capital of Italy that the Nazis' march took place for the first time, this event took place in 1922. Soon after, the fascist plague spread throughout the world.

Arch of Titus

Fortunately, the city-monument escaped massive bombing and almost all the sights remained intact. It is unlikely that the allies of the USSR would dare to bombard the city where the Vatican is located, which is the main spiritual center for all Catholics in the world. Although there were fears that the Germans, who occupied Rome in 1943, would decide to destroy all historical and architectural monuments and simply plunder the “eternal city”. Fortunately, the tragedy did not happen, even the greatest tyrant and despot of all times and peoples, Adolf Hitler, did not dare to remain in the memory as the destroyer of the “eternal city”. Already in 1944, Rome again became free and independent, now from fascism and the power of Benito Mussolini, who, by the way, suffered from a mental disorder and wanted to destroy all buildings in the capital in order to build a “new city”.

Palace of the Augustus

Modern Rome

As mentioned above, Rome is currently considered the most visited city by tourists. However, the population of the capital of the country, which resembles a woman's boot with an elegant heel on the world map, cannot be called large by today's standards. The city is home to about three million people. However, this figure does not include the number of people who come to Rome to work, and, by the way, there are quite a few of them.

If a tourist arrives in the capital of Italy and does not want to take advantage of the offers of travel agencies, but develops a tourist route on his own, he should first of all visit the Colosseum, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Piazza del Popolo, St. Peter's Cathedral. Naturally, this is only a hundredth of those sights that will forever remain in your memory. To learn more about Rome and find for yourself those places that you would like to visit immediately after arrival, you need to familiarize yourself with the tourist brochures available in almost every hotel or read about the sights of the city on the World Wide Web.

Roman Coliseum

Going to Rome, you should not count on the fact that on the first trip you can see all the most interesting and mysterious places v ancient city... Rome probably resembles Paris in some way. At least the fact that in order to truly get to know this city, you need to be born and die in it. It is difficult even to imagine how long it may take to visit even a small part of the sights of Rome, because there are more than 900 churches alone.

Where to go from Rome: 5 options for interesting trips and excursions

Italy seems to be a rather large country against the background of other European states. But only at first glance. Almost all cities in Italy are at an accessible distance from each other and are connected by rail. It is very convenient to travel between them by train, especially from Rome, which is actually located in the center of the country. That is why many travelers do not limit themselves to visiting the capital of Italy alone. If you are also ready to consider the possibility of one day travel from Rome to any other city, then we will be happy to help you and tell you about several of the most interesting options.

How to get from Rome to the sea

At the height of summer, Rome heats up to the limit: at this time the temperature rarely drops below +35 in the shade. When you walk along the ancient streets of the capital of Italy and languish from the heat, the thought involuntarily comes to mind that it would be nice to cool off somewhere, and apart from the far from the most attractive Tiber, there are no reservoirs and equipped beaches in Rome. Few people know that the coveted azure sea is much closer than it might seem at first glance: it is located only 25 km from the city and is accessible to absolutely any tourist. Using our advice, you can significantly diversify your stay in the "eternal city" and relax on the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Rome on your own: step by step travel arrangements

Rome, or as it is often called, "the eternal city" is the dream of many travel lovers. We are told about the key role in the development of human civilization and the huge cultural and historical heritage of Rome from childhood, in history lessons, thereby forming the image of a great and unique city.

Stop dreaming, it's time to go to Rome and see it with your own eyes!

Rome urban transport

Despite the fact that this article is about the system public transport Rome, the first thing you want to start with is to recommend to all our readers to use it as little as possible and give preference to walking. Rome is not a city where you should save your time and energy. Rome is the present the oldest miracle, preserved to our times, an open-air museum. Every square meter, every step will bring you an unforgettable experience. Should you be deprived of this, languishing in a bus or subway car? And to be honest, the transport of Rome is hardly capable of surprising even novice travelers with something.

Where to stay in Rome?

How to get to Rome. Flights 2020

Rome is perhaps one of the most popular and beloved cities among all travelers in the world, including Russian ones. Thanks to the dense network of flights of European low-cost airlines, you can get to the "eternal city" in a variety of ways. We present to your attention a selection of the cheapest flights to Rome.

Colosseum tickets online and other skip-the-line options

The Colosseum is by far the most popular attraction in Rome ... but what about Rome - practically the whole world! Thousands of tourists strive not only to take pictures against the background of this great structure, but also to get directly inside it. Of course, it’s not that easy. There are long queues of tourists at the entrance to the Colosseum, especially during the high season. Standing for 2-3 hours under the hot sun is far from being the most pleasant occupation. But, fortunately, this is not the only way to get to the Colosseum.

Fiumicino airport. How to get from the airport to the city

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport or Fiumicino Airport is the largest airport in Rome and all of Italy, also included in the top 10 major airports Europe. This airport located 30 km from Rome.

Interesting excursions in Rome in Russian

"The Eternal City" contains a huge antique cultural heritage: remains oldest temples, basilicas and other significant structures. But, you see, without history, these remnants of the former greatness become ordinary forks. Without knowledge of history, Rome loses its cultural value. That is why such kind of leisure as excursions has become very popular among the guests of the city.

How to get to the Vatican Museums: online tickets, secrets and tips

The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are world-class attractions, along with the Eiffel Tower, etc. There are millions of people who want to get here. Therefore, a visit to the museum should be carefully planned and thought out so that the kilometer-long queues and crowds do not spoil the experience.

Self-guided itineraries in Rome for 1, 2 and 3 days

Especially for those who are going to Rome for a relatively short time and want to get to know this beautiful city as closely as possible, we have prepared several routes for walking around it. So, what can you see in Rome in one, two and three days?

What to see in the Vatican and all the most interesting about it

Perhaps the most unique place in Rome is the Vatican. Yes, the very phrase "Vatican in Rome" sounds paradoxical, because Rome is a city, and the Vatican is a whole state. One way or another, for the vast majority of tourists, the Vatican is one of the main attractions of the capital of Italy.

Where to try pizza in Rome? The best pizzerias in town

One of the main elements of Italian culture is of course National cuisine: pasta, cheeses, pizza, etc. Of course, everyone who is going to Rome has a goal of trying real Italian pizza. Rome has a huge number of pizzerias, ranging from ordinary cheap eateries to expensive "tourist attractions". Among hundreds of such establishments, you can find real traditional pizzerias that have been operating for a very long time and, first of all, have gained respect and popularity among the local population. This is where we, travelers, need it!

Castel Sant'Angelo: history and interesting facts

On the banks of the Tiber, not far from the Vatican, a powerful and rather unusual structure rises, attracting the attention of guests of Rome. This is the Castel Sant'Angelo, or, as it is also called, Hadrian's Mausoleum. It is quite difficult not to notice it: the building is almost 50 meters high and at the same time is located on a small hill. Like any other architectural monument of Rome, the Castel Sant'Angelo has a rather significant reason for its appearance and, in the future, a very rich history.

10 must-do things in Rome

When planning your trip to Rome, sometimes even the most inveterate traveler starts to dazzle. The cultural and architectural heritage that Rome has been keeping for us for the third millennium in a row is truly immense. But let's try to make a list of the most important things that each guest of the Eternal City must do.

The most-most squares of Rome

Due to its rich history, several cultural and historical centers were formed on the territory of modern Rome, which once played a significant role in the life of the city. Therefore, it is rather difficult to determine the most important square of the city. Each major square in Rome can be assigned its own special status of "the most ...". In this article, we have prepared an overview of some of the most popular and important squares in the city that you shouldn't pass by.

Top 10 attractions in Rome

Rome is a city with almost three thousand years of history. Many monuments of ancient architecture have miraculously survived here to this day, which makes the "eternal city" popular all over the world. They say that in order to see absolutely all the sights of this city, a lifetime is not enough. Is it so? Let's leave this question open and for now we will restrict ourselves to the most important sights, which must be seen by travelers who have gathered in Rome for only a few days.

Vittoriano is a controversial landmark in Rome

V historic center Rome, literally 5 minutes from the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, is the snow-white Vittoriano monument. This attraction has no world fame, unlike its famous neighbors. And according to some, Vittoriano, at all, spoils architectural ensemble Rome, standing out disadvantageously against the background of other historical buildings.

Rome occupies a special place among European capitals... It is a symbolic city, a city of origin, where Western civilization was born. The mighty Roman Empire, which conquered the entire Mediterranean, began here - on the banks of the Tiber River. The historical and cultural heritage of Rome is priceless; at every step, the tourist awaits architectural and cultural masterpieces.

Rome is the legendary Colosseum and treasures of museums, the historic ruins of the Capitol and the magnificent facades of baroque villas. The entire city can be viewed as an open-air museum; its streets and squares are home to the history of three thousand years of the development 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 walking. Photos and a short description.

1. Colosseum

The main arena of Ancient Rome, a theater for gladiatorial fights, persecution of captives by 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 arranged, which lasted more than 3 months. The ancient stones of the Arena still remember gladiators killed for the amusement of the public and slaves torn to pieces for pleasure from the captured provinces.

2. Pantheon

Construction of the II century BC, "temple of all gods" in translation from Greek. The Pantheon was created during the heyday 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 our era.

3. Vatican

City-state, stronghold and main bastion of the Catholic Church, the seat of the Pope. In total, about 800 people are citizens of the Vatican, mainly priests and church officials. The Vatican is famous for its museums, which contain outstanding collections of painting, sculpture and applied arts. This real treasure humanity. Also, tourists are attracted by the main Catholic church - St. Peter's Cathedral.

4. Cathedral and St. Peter's Square

St. Peter's Cathedral is the spiritual center of the Catholic branch of Christianity. The Pope himself holds celebratory masses here. The temple was built 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 the Cathedral of St. Peter. 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. They were founded in the 16th century by Pope Julius II. An extensive exhibition of paintings from the 11th - 19th centuries is collected in the Vatican's Pinacoteca. You can get acquainted with tapestries and frescoes by the great masters by visiting the Sistine Chapel and Raphael's Stanzas. Antique statues, sarcophagi from Ancient Rome are presented in the Chiaramonti and Pio Cristiano museums. The history of religions around the world is described by exhibits at the Ethnological Missionary Museum. The history of the Vatican is presented in the Historical Museum. The Vatican Library contains over one and a half million books. The visit is open daily except Sundays and Catholic holidays.

6. Vittoriano

Memorable architectural complex XVIII-XIX 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 is burning and an honor guard is on duty. The inhabitants of Rome do not like this bulk of white marble, as they believe that it does not fit into the architecture of the city. Some Romans call Vittoriano a ridiculous "wedding cake".

7. Trastevere

A vibrant and colorful Roman quarter across the Tiber River. Here in the 18th century BC. the Etruscan tribe settled, from which the history of the Eternal City began. In the era of the Empire, there were luxurious patrician villas here. In the area 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

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 members of society began to settle in this area. From the 15th century to the middle of the 19th century, there was a market here. In the middle of the square is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, a sculptural group with deep symbolic meaning. In the middle of the composition there is an obelisk symbolizing the power of the Pope. Around the obelisk there are sculptures representing the rivers of four continents.

9. Piazza del Popolo

Freely 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, as 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 got its modern look at the beginning of the 19th century; the architect D. Valadier worked on it.

10. Castel Sant'Angelo

The building began to be built back in the era of the Roman Empire in the II century A.D. During its existence, it served as a papal dwelling, a prison, a warehouse and even a burial vault. Today, the fortress houses the Military History Museum. The castle got its name in the 6th century A.D. after the image of the Archangel Michael appeared to Pope Gregory. Directly from the castle, a picturesque bridge is thrown across the Tiber River, which was built during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. On the bridge it was possible to get to the Field of Mars by the shortest route.

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 after victorious wars took place. After the fall of the Empire, the forum was destroyed and ruined, and time did its job, so only fragments have survived to this day. The remains of the forum are included in the protected archaeological area, where an open-air museum operates.

12. Trajan's Forum

The forum appeared at the turn of the 2nd-1st centuries. BC. In those days, it was a large square, surrounded by a marketplace, the temple of Emperor Trajan, Greek and Latin libraries. Trajan's 38-meter 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 of its kind to be built in Rome.

13. Baths of Caracalla

Remains of ancient Roman baths on the Appian Way. The culture of visiting the baths was well developed in the Roman Empire. People came here to chat, learn the latest news or conduct business negotiations. Baths of Caracalla were built in the 3rd century AD. under the emperor Septimius Bassian Caracalla. Already in the 5th century A.D. this architectural complex has come 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 Arc de Triomphe, 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 to come to power), the capital of the Empire was transferred to Constantinople, and Rome gradually began to lose its former power and decline.

15. Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano

One of the oldest Christian churches, the first temple in Rome. In the church hierarchy, she is above all others, even above St. Peter's Basilica. Catholic hierarchs gave her the title of "basilica major", that is, "senior". 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. Six popes are buried in the basilica and the relics of the apostles St. Paul and St. Peter are kept.

16. San Paolo Fuori le Mura

Temple of the IV century AD, erected on the burial place of the Apostle St. Peter, who was executed at the behest 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 contribute to temple complex something of my own, therefore, over time, San Paolo Fuori le Mura expanded in size and grew with new outbuildings.

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 was given to the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano). The foundation stone of Santa Maria Maggiore was laid in the middle of the 4th century. In the XIV century, a 75-meter bell tower appeared near the church. The façade that has survived to this day is a mixture of Romanesque and Baroque styles.

18. Il-Jezu Church

The main Jesuit temple in Rome, where Grand Master Ignatius Loyola is buried. The first project 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 plan. Until the abolition of the Jesuit Order at the end of the 18th century, considerable wealth was kept in the Ile-Jezu Church. The church building itself was taken away from the organization. Only after 1814 it was returned back.

19. Basilica of St. Clement

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

20. San Pietro in Vincoli

The name of the church is translated as "St. Peter in chains". It is located on the square of the same name and was founded in the 5th century as a place for keeping 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. The artist Antonio Polaiolo is also buried in the church.

21. Church of Sant'Ignazio

The iconic building of the Jesuit Order in the Baroque style was built in 1626. It is located in Ignatius Layola Square and is dedicated to this saint who founded the order (he served as the prototype for Don Quixote). The church consists of many chapels, decorated with columns, arches and three-dimensional stucco. Numerous frescoes tell about the life of Saint Ignatius. The flat ceiling is frescoed to create the illusion of a domed structure.

22. Santa Maria in Trastevere

Presumably, this church was the first Christian temple in Rome. Its foundation dates back to the 3rd century AD. It is located in the square of the same name in the Trastevere area. 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. Inside, the church is arranged according to the principle of a classical basilica. In addition to Catholic ones, Christian icons are also kept here.

23. Capitoline Museum

The world's first museum was founded in 1471, when Pope Sixtus IV donated a collection of antique bronze to the inhabitants of Rome. It is located in Capitoline Square, designed by Michelangelo, in three palaces. An exposition of classical sculpture is presented in the New Palace. In the Palace of the Conservatives there are world famous ancient statues, a collection of paintings from the Renaissance, a collection of coins. The main part of the Palace of the 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. It houses his personal art collection, as well as a collection of antique sculptures and an Egyptian display. Crypt Balbi stores ancient Roman artifacts found during excavations. The very building of Thermal Deoclitsiana is already a unique architectural monument. Various exhibitions are held here, there is also a permanent exhibition of ancient sculptures, manuscripts and archaeological finds.

25.Doria Pamphilj Gallery

A private collection is exhibited in Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, one of the main streets of old Rome. They began to collect it 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 sculpture gallery, a rich collection of antique furniture and fabrics. In total, more than 500 copies are presented here, in six main halls.

26. Rome Opera House

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

27. Museum and crypt of the Capuchins

Santa Maria della Canchezione is a small Roman church with a modest façade. However, the place is attractive to tourists. Here is buried the Roman cardinal Antonio Barberini, a member of the Capuchin order. The burial place of monks is located under the church, 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: 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 part of the underground passages were created in the era of early Christianity. The first companions of Jesus were hiding in these dungeons. Here they conducted religious rituals, meetings, prayers 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. The 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 being taken out of the Nile Valley. The Cestius pyramid reaches 37 meters in height and almost 30 meters in width.

30. Circus Maximus

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

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 path is more than 500 km. The construction of the road began in the 4th century. Thanks to excellent quality laying 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 roadbed 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 a former vineyard. 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

It is located on the slope of the Pincho Hill in the former Lucullus Gardens. In the middle of the 16th century, the area near the hill became the possession of the Medici Cardinal, who built a villa here for his family. After the extinction of the Medici dynasty, the house and adjacent lands were transferred to the Lorraine family. The Medici Cardinal acquired many works of antique art to decorate the villa. Some examples can be admired in the Uffizi Gallery.

34. Spanish Steps

Italian Baroque staircase in the center of Rome. It is recognized as one of the most picturesque in Europe. The staircase starts at Plaza de España and leads to the Pincho 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 a week. All money is donated 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.