The Pantheon stands as one of Rome's key attractions, with its dome and columns serving as a timeless inspiration for architects throughout the centuries. The initial temple on this site was constructed in 27 BC during the consulship of Marcus Agrippa. Although it suffered from fires and lightning strikes during the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, it was consistently rebuilt and gradually acquired its distinctive circular shape. Under Emperor Hadrian, the temple was dedicated to "pan theos", representing all the gods of Rome, which is where the term "pantheon" originated.

Following the decline of the Western Roman Empire, the Pantheon remained under the control of Byzantine emperors, despite their waning influence over the city. In the 7th century, one of these emperors donated the temple to Pope Boniface IV, who transformed it into a Christian church and dedicated it to St. Mary and all the Martyrs. This conversion ensured the Pantheon's preservation, unlike many other non-Christian Roman temples that were demolished. From the Renaissance onwards, the Pantheon served as a burial site for prominent Italians, including the renowned artist Raphael and Victor Emmanuel II, the king of Italy, among others.

One of the structure's most remarkable features is its unsupported concrete dome, the largest of its kind in the world, which remains remarkably well-preserved and exhibits a breathtaking beauty when illuminated by sunlight. The ingenious engineering of the drainage system on the Pantheon's floor continues to effectively divert rainwater, which is particularly impressive considering the originality of the floors. The massive bronze doors, each weighing over 20 tons, add to the awe-inspiring nature of this architectural marvel.

While entry to the Pantheon is free, many visitors find equal enjoyment sitting outside on the steps of the fountain in Rotonda Square ("Piazza della Rotonda"). Here, they can savor gelato, observe passers-by, and admire the magnificence of this ancient structure, becoming part of their unforgettable Roman holiday experience.

Why You Should Visit:
Italian baroque meets Roman architectural excellence!
Surely among the world's most amazing free attractions.

Tip:
Incredible at night (on the outside), especially if you enjoy musicians with talent and engagement... but be aware of pickpockets.

Navona Square, one of Rome’s most iconic places, is built on the site of the ancient (1st-century AD) Stadium of Domitian. The stadium’s elongated oval shape defines the square’s layout, originally designed for Roman games (or agones). Over time, the name evolved from Circus Agonalis (which means “competition arena”) to Navona. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the stadium fell into ruin and was quarried for materials, leaving few remnants today.

In the late 15th century, Navona Square was designated a public space when the city market moved there from Capitoline Hill. It became a celebrated example of Baroque architecture and art during the mid-17th century under Pope Innocent X, whose family property, the Pamphili Palace, overlooks the square. The latter also features several masterpieces, including Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers at its center, crowned by the Obelisk of Domitian. The renowned Church of Saint Agnes in Agone with its impressive dome further highlights the area's artistic significance. Also noteworthy is the Braschi Palace, presently home to the Museum of Rome, and the Cupis Palace, which now offers pre-booked accommodations.

Navona Square is also home to two additional fountains. The Fountain of the Moor, at the southern end, was originally sculpted by Giacomo della Porta in 1575, with Bernini adding a statue of a Moor wrestling a dolphin in 1673. At the northern end, the Fountain of Neptune, also by della Porta (created in 1574), gained its central Neptune statue in 1878.

The square has a rich cultural history, hosting theatrical performances and festivals, including a popular Christmas market held annually, from December to January.

Navona Square made an appearance in several movies, including “Angels & Demons” (of 2008, starring Tom Hanks), “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” (with Sophie Loren, made in 1964), and “The Talented Mr. Ripley” (directed in 1999 by Anthony Minghella, featuring Matt Damon). The atmosphere in Navona Square exudes a cool and relaxed vibe which, complete with its cinematic and architectural appeal, makes it an ideal spot for photography.

Tip:
In the evenings, when the central fountain is illuminated, the square becomes particularly scenic.
If looking for more intimate and more value-for-money meals and refreshments, consider venturing onto one of the side streets adjacent to the square, filled with multiple eateries and cafes.

Campo de' Fiori, or the "field of flowers", derived its name during the Middle Ages when this area in present-day Rome was nothing more than a meadow. In the late 15th century, the meadow was paved and gradually transformed into a square that became notorious for public executions. It was here, in the year 1600, that one of the most brutal executions in history took place—philosopher Giordano Bruno was burned at the stake for heresy. A harsh critic of bigotry and opponent to some religious theories like that of Trinity and geocentric model, he believed that the universe could be infinite and filled with countless worlds. Such ideas surpassed the tolerance of the Catholic Church at that time. As a result, Bruno lost his life and his works were banned by the Holy Office.

In 1889, a statue of Giordano Bruno was erected at the center of Campo de' Fiori, precisely where he faced his final moments. The statue defiantly confronts the Vatican, portraying Bruno as a martyr for freedom of thought. The inscription at the statue's base reads: "To Bruno - From the Age He Predicted - Here Where the Fire Burned."

Around the same time in the late 19th century, the square began hosting a daily market for vegetables and fish. This vibrant market opens early in the morning and operates until around 1-2pm, offering a wide array of fresh produce, cheeses, seasonings, and pasta, with the opportunity to sample various items before making a purchase. As night falls, Campo de' Fiori transforms into a popular gathering spot, buzzing with outdoor cafes, restaurants, and entertainment options that cater to different tastes and budgets.

Opening Hours (Market):
Daily: 7am-3pm

Situated in the historic Trastevere district, Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere derives its name from the nearby church, which underwent a splendid restoration of its facade mosaics in 2018. This church, considered Rome's first official Christian place of worship, was established by Pope Callixtus I in the 3rd century, during a time when Christianity remained a minority belief. Its location is said to be where an oil fountain miraculously emerged on the day of Christ's birth.

Today, the church predominantly reflects a 12th-century structure renowned for its magnificent mosaics. Particularly noteworthy is the apse mosaic depicting the Coronation of the Virgin, alongside the six mosaics by Pietro Cavallini below, which portray the life of the Virgin with remarkable realism. The nave showcases twenty-two granite columns sourced from the remnants of ancient Roman buildings. Despite some additions in the 18th-century Baroque style, Santa Maria has preserved its medieval charm.

Beneath the grand altar on the right, an inscription reading "FONS OLEI" designates the spot where the oil is believed to have gushed forth.

Why You Should Visit:
One of the oldest (if not the oldest) churches in Rome; extremely ornate and well worth a visit when visiting Trastevere.
During the evening, the church's facade sparkles with the illuminated brilliance of its mosaics.

Tip:
Similar to other churches, it is customary to have your shoulders and knees covered, regardless of the outside temperature.
A good idea would be to plan on spending a little extra time in the area to grab lunch, dinner or gelato.

In contrast to the dominant and renowned Colosseum, the Theatre of Marcellus maintains a more understated presence, patiently awaiting discovery by true enthusiasts of history and architecture. While the Colosseum may have claimed the title of the largest arena, it is important to note that the Theatre of Marcellus was actually the first-ever amphitheater constructed in Rome and served as a model for the later design of the Colosseum. Unlike its grand counterpart, this theater never witnessed gruesome battles but instead hosted mythological dramas widely popular in ancient Rome.

With a seating capacity of up to 20,000 spectators, the Theatre of Marcellus once reigned as the largest arena in the city. Emperor Augustus officially inaugurated the theater and honored his nephew by bestowing upon it the name Marcellus. However, it was Julius Caesar himself who initiated its construction, although he tragically met his demise before the project could commence. Showcasing the timeless beauty of classical ancient architecture, the structure harmoniously combines three prominent styles of the era – the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders – elegantly distributed across its three levels.

Despite the passage of centuries, the theater remains remarkably intact, lending a great deal of charm to the Capitoline Hill. Its significance is further enhanced by its history as a fortress during the 12th century and subsequent transformation into a palazzo in the 16th century. Notably, the upper part of the building has recently been converted into prestigious accommodation, seamlessly blending the ancient with the contemporary. From June to October, the venue also becomes a stage for musical concerts, providing yet another compelling reason to explore this captivating piece of history when the opportunity arises.

The Capitoline Hill, one of Rome’s Seven Hills, holds a storied past rooted in both mythology and history. Originally called Mount Saturn and dedicated to the Roman god Saturn, the hill later gained the name “Capitolium,” initially referring to the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus. A myth ties its name to caput ("head") after a human skull was unearthed during the temple’s construction. The hill, symbolizing indestructibility and eternity, inspired the term “capitol,” eventually influencing sites like Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

Historically, the Capitoline served as a sacred and civic center. It withstood the Gaulish invasion of 390 BC and witnessed key events such as Julius Caesar’s penance and the destructive fire during the Year of Four Emperors (69 AD). By the Middle Ages, the hill evolved into a governance hub under papal authority. Its transformation was completed in the Renaissance when Michelangelo redesigned it into a civic landmark.

Michelangelo’s Capitol Square, commissioned by Pope Paul III between 1536 and 1546, reoriented the hill from the Roman Forum toward Saint Peter’s Basilica, reflecting a shift to Christian symbolism. Central to the square is the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, believed to represent Emperor Constantine. The square features intricate paving with cosmic motifs, though this element was added in 1940.

The square is surrounded by three palaces. The Conservators' Palace, renovated by Michelangelo in the 16th century, incorporates colossal Corinthian pilasters, while the New Palace, built in the 17th century, mirrors its design. The 14th-century Senatorial Palace, atop the ancient Tabularium, serves as city hall, with Michelangelo’s double staircase integrating it seamlessly into the plaza. Accessed by the cordonata, a wide gradual ramp flanked by the statues of Castor and Pollux (the twin half-brothers in Greek and Roman mythology), the hill exemplifies Renaissance grandeur.

Tips:
For a memorable experience, be sure to enjoy the amazing views of the city and the Roman Forum from both the museums' plaza and the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument, particularly from its top accessible via the elevator. Keep in mind that dedicating at least half a day is recommended, as there are numerous magnificent buildings and squares located behind the rear of the main building.

The Roman Forum, once the pulsating heart of ancient Rome's public life, evolved from a simple marketplace around 500 BC into the epicenter of Roman political, social, and religious activity. Known as the Forum Magnum, it became a hub for triumphal processions, public speeches, elections, criminal trials, gladiatorial matches, and commerce. Statues and monuments celebrating Roman leaders solidified its status as one of history’s most significant meeting places.

Initially featuring early structures like the Regia (a royal residence) and the Temple of Vesta, the Forum developed into a formal assembly area called the Comitium, where the Senate and government convened. Over centuries, temples, tribunals, and public buildings, such as the Senate House and the Temple of Saturn, transformed the Forum into a multifunctional hub. The Basilica Aemilia, built in 179 BC, expanded judicial activities, while Julius Caesar’s enhancements, including the Basilica Julia and Curia Julia, underscored its role as a center for politics, commerce, and religion.

Despite its prominence, the Forum’s importance began to decline with the emergence of grander structures, such as Trajan's Forum and the Basilica Ulpia, to the north. Unlike the more planned Imperial Forums, the Roman Forum grew organically, reflecting a mix of architectural styles across periods. Constantine the Great’s construction of the Maxentius Basilica in 312 AD marked its final significant addition, temporarily restoring its political centrality. However, the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century AD led to the Forum's destruction and decline.

Today, the Roman Forum is a sprawling ruin but remains a priceless historical treasure. Though reduced to crumbling remains, it continues to captivate visitors, drawing annually nearly five million. Highlights of the site include the Sacred Street, the Arch of Titus, and remnants of iconic buildings like the Temple of Castor and Pollux.

In the “Roman Holiday” movie, Princess Ann and Joe Bradley meet near the Roman Forum. Ann, escaping the palace and under the influence of a sleeping pill, rests by the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Septimius Severus. Joe, leaving a poker game, finds her there and, unable to learn her address, takes her to his apartment by taxi. The road seen in the film near the ancient arch has since been closed, with part of it now being a cul-de-sac. This iconic scene blends the timeless charm of the Forum with the unfolding of an unforgettable cinematic story.

The Imperial Forums are a series of monumental public squares in Rome that once served as centers of politics, religion, and economy during the Roman Republic and Empire. Located near the Roman Forum, these squares were built over about 150 years, between the mid-1st century BC and the early 2nd century AD. It began with Julius Caesar, who restructured the area to establish the Forum of Caesar. This forum, inaugurated in 46 BC, celebrated his power and included a temple to Venus Genetrix, symbolizing his divine lineage.

Emperor Augustus followed with the Forum of Augustus, inaugurated in 2 BC after decades of construction. It featured the Temple of Mars Ultor, honoring his victory at Philippi and his connection to Rome's mythological founding through Mars. The forum's layout included semicircular exedrae, long porticos, and a fire-resistant wall separating it from the Suburra district.

Emperor Vespasian, in turn, constructed the Temple of Peace, otherwise known as the Forum of Vespasian, in 75 AD, to commemorate the conquest of Jerusalem. Unlike other forums, it served as a garden and open-air museum, featuring pools, statues, and the Forma Urbis Romae, a marble map of ancient Rome.

The Forum of Nerva, initiated by Domitian and completed by his successor, was a smaller transitional forum connecting the earlier complexes. It included a monumental entrance and a temple dedicated to Minerva, symbolizing protection for the emperor.

The Forum of Trajan, completed in 113 AD, was the largest and most elaborate. Built to commemorate Trajan’s victory in Dacia, its design required significant reshaping of the Quirinal Hill. It featured the Basilica Ulpia, Trajan's Column, and a massive equestrian statue of the emperor.

During the 1930s, Mussolini restored the Imperial Forums in an effort to evoke and emulate the past glories of Ancient Rome. He also built a road crossing through the site, supposedly in a bid to make the Colosseum visible from his office window.

A museum at Trajan’s Market, opened in 2007, showcases the history and significance of these forums through artifacts, models, and exhibits, preserving the legacy of Rome's monumental past. Although only a fraction of the original structures remain, the ruins of the Imperial Forums still convey the scale and grandeur of the ancient city. In recent years, the Imperial Forums avenue has been made traffic-free, so walking on it, with just a little imagination, will give you a pretty good sense of Ancient Rome's magnitude.

The Colosseum, Rome’s iconic elliptical amphitheater, is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, covering 24,000 square meters. Constructed between 69 and 80 AD by the Flavian dynasty, it was initially called the Flavian Amphitheater. Its modern name stems from the Colossus of Nero statue that once stood nearby, with the term "Colosseum" emerging during the medieval period.

Built on the land reclaimed from Emperor Nero’s landscaped Domus Aurea complex after the Great Fire of 64 AD, the Colosseum represented a gift to the Roman people under Emperor Vespasian. It was constructed using travertine, tuff, and concrete and was funded by spoils from the Jewish War. The latter, fought in 70 AD, led to the Siege of Jerusalem and brought back numerous prisoners who largely contributed to the massive workforce needed for the construction. The amphitheater comprised four tiers that could hold between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators at a time. Its free-standing structure features three architectural orders – Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.

The lowest tier was for the emperor and the royal family, the two middle ones were for the noble Romans and members of government, while the highest tier was for the ordinary citizens. The elaborate system included 80 entrances, passageways for crowd control, and numbered pottery tickets for seating. Admission was free and the main sponsor was the emperor himself.

The Colosseum hosted gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and mythological reenactments. Events often featured exotic animals imported from Africa and the Middle East. Emperor Trajan's games, for example, involved over 11,000 animals and 10,000 gladiators over 123 days! The below-ground passages were used to bring men and animals into the arena, which was separated from the audience by a ditch. Occasionally, it was reportedly even flooded for naval battles. Executions were common during intervals, with the condemned facing wild beasts or acting out tragic myths.

During the medieval period, the Colosseum served as a fortress and even a stone quarry. Passers-by habitually chipped off pieces of it for souvenirs which, together with some natural causes like earthquakes, led to its partial destruction.

Despite popular belief that the early Christians were martyred here in numbers, evidence suggests that most executions occurred elsewhere. By the 17th century, the Colosseum became recognized as a sacred site. Today, it hosts the Pope’s Good Friday “Way of the Cross” procession.

Only the north side of the building, as well as the underground passages, have survived intact. The arena floor is totally gone. Inside the Colosseum, there's a historical exhibition with both permanent and changing displays.

Tips:
Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid long queues and heat. The ground and first floors are open to visitors without a special ticket, while the subterranean part and the third floor are accessed on pre-booked tours only. Opt for a guided tour to skip lines and access the Forum area. Alternatively, buy tickets in advance or at the Roman Forum. Enhance your experience with an audio guide for detailed historical insights.

On October 28, 312 AD, Roman emperor Constantine had an epic battle with his rival, co-emperor Maxentius. It went down in history as the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. Victorious Constantine became the sole ruler of the Roman Empire, thus ending the system of Tetrarchy. He is generally regarded as the last great emperor of Rome.

The Arch of Constantine, Rome’s largest triumphal arch, was dedicated in 315 AD to commemorate Constantine’s victory. Located between the Colosseum and Palatine Hill, it spans the Road of Triumph, marking the route of Roman military parades. The arch stands 21 meters high, featuring three bays and incorporating elements from earlier monuments, including reliefs and statues from the reigns of Trajan, Hadrian, and Marcus Aurelius, reworked to celebrate Constantine.

Scholars have debated the arch's origins, suggesting it may predate Constantine and even have ties to Hadrian’s or Maxentius’s reigns. The arch exemplifies Late Antique artistic styles, with a blend of reused classical Greek-inspired elements and newly-created simpler, symbolic works. Reliefs from earlier monuments display classical proportions and dynamic movement, while the 4th-century additions feature rigid and geometric forms, reflecting changes in artistic priorities or economic constraints at that time. This stylistic contrast highlights the transition from Rome’s classical tradition to the evolving aesthetics of Late Antiquity.

Decorative elements on the arch include reliefs of Dacians from Trajan’s reign, panels depicting Marcus Aurelius’s military campaigns, and roundels from Hadrian’s era reworked to depict Constantine. A Constantinian frieze narrates his campaign against Maxentius, while inscriptions celebrate him as a pious and victorious leader.

One such inscription credits Constantine with saving the Roman people by divine inspiration. It refers to his vision before the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 AD, where he claimed to have seen a cross in the sky and heard the words: "In this sign, you will conquer." This event is often linked to Constantine's promotion of Christianity within the Roman Empire. The arch also balances pagan and Christian themes, symbolizing Constantine’s shifting religious stance during this period.

The Arch of Constantine's global influence as a monument includes the likes of the Arch of Triumph in Paris, the Marble Arch in London, Washington Union Station in Washington DC, and the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.

Set in the valley between the Palatine and Aventine hills, the Circus Maximus is the oldest and largest racetrack in ancient Rome. This colossal space, once capable of accommodating over 300,000 spectators, witnessed thrilling chariot races while the emperor looked on. From the 4th century BC until AD 549, the Circus Maximus underwent continuous embellishment and expansion, culminating in its final races.

The oval course spans approximately 650 yards from end to end. On certain occasions, as many as 24 chariot races were held in a single day, and competitions could extend for up to 15 days. Much like modern sports stars, charioteers could accumulate vast fortunes. Diocles, a renowned Portuguese charioteer, reportedly won an astounding 35 million sestertii. The atmosphere within the Circus Maximus must have been electrifying as charioteers competed in teams, each representing their own colors such as the Reds, the Blues, and others. Betting on the races also provided a potentially lucrative occupation for the majority of unemployed citizens in Rome.

The Circus Maximus featured a central dividing barrier known as the spina, adorned with seven large egg-shaped objects used to count laps during a race. In 33 BC, seven bronze dolphins were added to the spina for the same purpose. In 10 BC, Augustus constructed the Imperial box beneath the Palatine Hill and adorned the spina with an obelisk, which now stands at the center of Piazza del Popolo. Another obelisk, added in the 4th century by Constantine II, now stands in Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano.

Today, the long grassy expanse of the Circus Maximus still retains hints of its original purpose and occasionally serves as a venue for festivals and concerts. However, during the recent remake of "Ben Hur", archaeological authorities denied permission to film chariot-racing scenes in this historical location.

Built in the 6th century, this charming and unadorned church occupies the site where the ancient city's food market once stood. Over the centuries, it has undergone architectural additions and restorations that have shaped its current form. During the 12th century, an elegant Romanesque bell tower and portico were incorporated into the structure. However, in the 19th century, the Baroque façade was removed, allowing the church to be restored to its original simplicity. Within its walls, visitors can admire the exquisite craftsmanship of the Cosmati work, prominently displayed in the mosaic pavement, raised choir, bishop's throne, and the canopy adorning the main altar.

One notable feature can be found set into the wall of the portico—the Bocca della Verità, or the "Mouth of Truth". Its origins can be traced back to ancient times, possibly as a drain cover predating the 4th century BC. According to medieval tradition, the fearsome jaws of the Mouth of Truth would close upon the hand of anyone who told a lie, making it a peculiar yet intriguing tool for testing the faithfulness of spouses.

***Movie "ROMAN HOLIDAY"***
The Mouth of Truth ("Bocca della Verità"), considered the funniest scene in the movie 'Roman Holiday', is where Joe Bradley puts his hand into the sculpture's mouth. In the film, Audrey Hepburn's reaction to the nipped Gregory Peck's hand was not an act, as he decided to pull a gag without telling her beforehand.

Why You Should Visit:
Most people come here to see the "Mouth of Truth" (for a fee), but do take some time to visit the interior as well – you'll be amazed by the skill and beauty of the mosaic of tiles under your feet. On the other hand, the exterior has a rather unique look, with its porches and slender bell tower.

Tip:
Across from the church you'll find more ancient architecture in a grassy park with a fine fountain.