Rome Introduction Walking Tour I (Self Guided), Rome

The Colosseum is one of the grandest monuments to have stood the test of time and probably the most visited ruins in the world. The works on this colossal structure began in 72 AD and took 8 years to complete. The official opening of the venue was marked with gladiator games that lasted 100 days.

The Colosseum amphitheater comprised four tiers that could hold up to 50,000 spectators. The lowest tier was for the emperor and the royal family; the two middle ones were for Roman citizens and members of government, while the highest tier was for the plebs. Below-ground passages were used for bringing men and animals into the arena that was separated from the audience by a ditch.

The amphitheater mainly hosted three types of shows: wild animal fights, public executions and, of course, gladiator battles. Spectacles at the Colosseum could last for days. Admission was free and the main sponsor was the Emperor himself. Despite popular belief that the early Christians were martyred here in numbers, records reveal that it was very unlikely so.

At some point, during the 18th century, the Colosseum served as a fortress and then simply became a stone quarry for other construction projects. Passers-by habitually chipped off pieces of the Colosseum for souvenirs which, together with some natural causes like earthquakes, led to its partial destruction. Today, only the north side of the building remains, as well as the underground passages.

The arena floor is totally gone, and it is possible to access the subterranean part of the Colosseum, as well as its 3rd floor, on pre-booked tours only. The floors that are open to visitors without a special ticket are the ground and first floors. Inside the Colosseum, there's a historical exhibition with both permanent and changing displays.

Tips:
For a more convenient experience, visit either early in the morning or late in the evening. The queues during the middle of the day tend to be chaotic, and the heat can make standing around uncomfortable. If you're unable to arrive early but still wish to avoid the queues, consider opting for a guided tour by paying a slightly higher fee. This way, you'll not only skip the lines but also gain access to the Forum area. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased in advance or at the Roman Forum itself, where the queues are considerably shorter.
To enhance your visit, it's advisable to acquire an audio guide, providing detailed information about the layout and historical events that took place at different locations within the Forum.

The Arch of Constantine is one of the most outstanding and well-preserved examples of Roman architecture. Erected in the early 4th century AD, it is a testament to the grandeur of the Roman Empire and a significant monument in the historical narrative of the city.

Situated between the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill, the Arch of Constantine was constructed to commemorate Emperor Constantine's victory over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 AD, a turning point in Roman history that led to Constantine becoming the sole ruler of the Western Roman Empire.

The Arch of Constantine is the largest of the triumphal arches in Rome, standing about 69 feet tall and 85 feet wide. It is the last triumphal Arch erected in Rome and, arguably, the most beautiful of them all. It is decorated with an array of intricate sculptures and reliefs, many of which were repurposed from earlier monuments. These carvings depict scenes from Constantine's military campaigns, as well as from the campaigns of other notable emperors, demonstrating the might and power of the Roman Empire.

One notable feature of the Arch is the inscription dedicated to Constantine, which credits him with saving the Roman people by divine inspiration. This refers to Constantine's vision before the Battle of Milvian Bridge, 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.

Standing amid the public road once used as the triumphant passage into the city taken by emperors, the Arch is free to access. Although fenced off, it is well visible from the outside, any time, day or night.

The Sacred Street holds a prominent place in the history of ancient Rome. Serving as the main thoroughfare of the city, this road stretched from the top of the Capitoline Hill, through the significant religious sites of the Roman Forum, and ultimately led to the awe-inspiring Colosseum.

Originally, the Sacred Street formed part of the traditional route of the Roman Triumph, a grand procession that commenced on the outskirts of Rome and passed through the Roman Forum. Over time, the road was paved, and during the reign of Emperor Nero, it was adorned with magnificent colonnades, transforming it into a grand boulevard.

The Sacred Street witnessed countless significant events that shaped the history of Rome. It hosted solemn religious festivals, showcased the glorious triumphs of victorious generals, and accommodated the bustling crowds who gathered in the Basilicas for various purposes such as socializing, gambling, conducting business, or seeking justice. Notably, the street was also frequented by many prostitutes who sought potential customers among the daily throng.

During the reign of Augustus and subsequent emperors, the Sacred Street played a crucial role in the Apotheosis ceremony, where deceased Roman Emperors were formally deified. The body of the emperor, concealed beneath a wax death mask, was carried on a pall from the Palatine Hill down the Sacred Street into the Forum. Funeral orations were delivered in the Forum before the procession of Knights and Senators continued its journey toward the Campus Martius.

Today, visitors to Rome can travel in the footsteps of ancient Romans by walking the Sacred Street to explore the historical Roman Forum.

Palatine Hill, or Palatino, is one of Rome's seven hills and is steeped in mythology and history. As the site where Rome is traditionally believed to have been founded, Palatine Hill holds a unique place in the city's rich historical tapestry.

According to legend, it was on this hill that the twins Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome, were discovered by a she-wolf who raised them. When they grew up, the twins set out to build a city of their own. While Remus wanted to build it on Aventine Hill, Romulus had his mind set firmly on Palatine Hill. The brothers argued fiercely, and during the fight, Romulus killed Remus. He went on to build the city in 753 BC, calling it Rome, and reigned there as a king.

Overlooking the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus, Palatine Hill became the desirable location for the homes of Rome's wealthiest citizens during the Republic era. During the Imperial era, it transformed into an exclusive residential area for the emperors, starting with Augustus and continuing with Tiberius, Nero, and Domitian, who built the impressive Domitian's Palace.

Today, Palatine Hill is an extensive archaeological site where visitors can explore the ruins of the grand palaces, gardens, and buildings that once stood there. Highlights include the House of Augustus and the House of Livia, which contain well-preserved frescoes, and the Palatine Museum, which showcases artifacts found on the site and provides a deeper understanding of its history.

From its lush gardens and panoramic views of the city to the striking ruins of Rome's glorious past, Palatine Hill offers a journey through the centuries. It is a must-visit spot on any Rome itinerary.

Tip:
With "Super" tickets, you gain entry to numerous attractions on the Hill, and you have the option to choose a specific site to visit. Additionally, access to the Roman Forum and the Colosseum is included. Before entering, it's advisable to grab water and snacks since locating vending machines can be challenging, and the ascent up the main hill can be tiring on an empty stomach. It's also recommended to bring a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear, as the paths and steps can be steep or uneven.

One of, if not THE most celebrated meeting spot in the world of all times, the Roman Forum, had been the nerve center of ancient Rome's public life.

It is believed that people first gathered here around 500 BC, initially for day-to-day trading at a marketplace. Over the next few centuries, as more activities started to take place here, such as voting, public speaking, social gatherings, criminal trials, gladiator matches, religious ceremonies, and business deals, this small valley between the Palatine and Capitoline hills gradually turned into a multi-purpose hub filled with buildings, arches, streets, and monuments.

The ancient Romans were incredibly well organized, and the placement of sites within the Forum still makes a lot of sense even today. The best-known sights here include the Senate House, the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, the Temple of Vesta, the Rostra, the Temple of Castor and Pollus, Via Sacra, and others.

Unlike the Imperial Fora modeled on an ancient Greek town square, the Roman Forum developed gradually and organically. It was reconstructed many times throughout its existence, attesting to which are the traces of the influence of different architectural styles from different periods. Most of the ancient Forum was destroyed in the 5th century AD, around the time when the West Roman Empire fell into decline.

Even though now reduced to crumbling ruins, the Forum still remains a historical relic of incalculable value attracting some 5 million visitors annually.

***Movie "ROMAN HOLIDAY": Joe Encounters Ann***
The Roman Forum would be a convenient place for Princess Ann and Joe Bradley to meet: she, on the escape from the palace; he, from a poker game at Irving Radovich's apartment. As Ann feels the effects of a sleeping pill, she rests on a brick bench near the Temple of Saturn (4th century BC) and the Arch of Septimus Severus (203 AD). That's where Joe finds her, takes pity on her and tries to take her home. Never managing to get her address, he takes her to his place by taxi. The road seen in the film, close to the ancient arch, no longer exists. There used to be a road running along the northwest edge of the Roman Forum, but it has been closed for quite some time, part of it remaining as a cul-de-sac.

The Imperial Forums is an extraordinary architectural complex that is central to understanding the grandeur of the Roman Empire. It represents a series of public squares, constructed over a period of about 150 years, that served as the political, religious, and social heart of ancient Rome.

The Imperial Forums consists of a series of monumental forums, or public squares, that were constructed by various Roman emperors from the end of the 1st century BC to the beginning of the 2nd century AD. These include the Forum of Caesar, the Forum of Augustus, the Transitorium of Nero, the Forum of Vespasian (also known as the Temple of Peace), the Forum of Nerva, and the most grandiose of all, the Forum of Trajan.

Each forum was designed to both serve practical needs such as public administration, justice, and commerce, as well as to provide a magnificent setting for the emperors to display their power and prestige. The forums were adorned with grand temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches, and embellished with statues and monuments that glorified the emperors and their deeds.

The Imperial Forums is an archaeological treasure trove, offering a wealth of insights into the politics, religion, and societal structures of the ancient Roman world. Even in their ruined state, the scale and complexity of the buildings and structures are awe-inspiring.

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.

Today, the Imperial Forums is a significant archaeological site, attracting tourists and scholars from around the world. Although only a fraction of the original structures remains, the ruins of the Imperial Forums still convey the scale and grandeur of the ancient city.

Why You Should Visit:
Lined with remnants of the once magnificent ancient buildings, the last few years the avenue has been made traffic-free, so walking on it, with just a little imagination, will give one a pretty good sense of Ancient Rome's grandeur and magnitude.

For a captivating encounter with ancient sculpture in Rome, don't miss the renowned Capitoline Museums, which boast one of the city's most esteemed collections. In terms of size and opulence, they are second only to the Vatican Museums, standing as a testament to being the world's earliest public institution of its kind. Showcasing a curated selection of remarkable Roman art spanning various periods, from ancient antiquities to the Baroque era, it finds its splendid residence within the Conservators' Palace ("Palazzo dei Conservatori") and the New Palace ("Palazzo Nuovo"). These architectural marvels elegantly mirror each other across the iconic piazza designed by Michelangelo, creating a harmonious ensemble.

It is highly recommended to explore both palaces rather than choosing just one. Your ticket allows access for the entire day, giving the opportunity to visit each museum at your leisure, with a break in between to perhaps take a stroll around the Roman Forum.

The Conservators' Palace houses a diverse and expansive collection, featuring not only ancient sculptures but also later artworks and an impressive art gallery. As you enter, you'll be greeted by the grandeur of the Hall of the Horatii and Curiatii ("Sala degli Orazi e Curiazi") on the first floor, adorned with magnificent frescoes from the late 16th century, depicting legendary tales from Rome's early history.

Ascending to the second floor, you'll enter the pinacoteca, a treasure trove of Renaissance paintings spanning the 14th to the late 17th centuries. Marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists like Caravaggio, Tintoretto, and Titian. Notably, Caravaggio's "Saint John the Baptist", created in 1602 for the noble Roman family, the Mattei, stands out.

To access the New Palace section, you can ascend the staircase or take the elevator to the basement of the Conservators' Palace. Along the connecting corridor that unites the two palaces, you will encounter the Epigraphic Collection, a poignant assembly of ancient gravestones that adds a sense of history. Before proceeding, be sure not to miss the staircase on the right, leading to the Tabularium gallery, which offers an unparalleled view overlooking the Forum, with a breathtaking perspective of the ancient surroundings.

Tip:
Make sure to visit the Terrazza Caffarelli café-restaurant located on the top floor of the Capitoline Museums, as it offers a remarkable experience highlighted by its expansive terrace boasting panoramic views of rooftops and captivating ancient ruins (the scenery becomes particularly breathtaking during sundown). Indulge in superior coffee paired with delectable cakes, or savor an aperitivo accompanied by delightful snacks. Even if you're not visiting the museum, you can still enjoy the café by entering through a separate entrance on Piazzale Caffarelli.

When visiting Rome, the Capitoline Hill is a must-see attraction and widely regarded as the most sacred of the city's Seven Hills. A pillar of Roman civilization, it hosts numerous temples dedicated to revered Roman gods like Jupiter, Juno, Minerva, Venus, and Mars.

In ancient times, the hill provided an excellent vantage point to observe battles, particularly the formidable cliff to the south, which offered panoramic views of armies marching in all directions. From this elevated position, visitors can enjoy truly dramatic vistas of Rome and the Roman Forum. Exploring the attractions on Capitoline Hill can easily occupy half a day, with its rich history spanning ancient, Medieval, and Renaissance periods.

Among the noteworthy landmarks on the hill is the Senatorial Palace ("Palazzo Senatorio"), dating back to the 12th century, and the Conservators' Palace ("Palazzo dei Conservatori"), designed by Michelangelo in the 16th century. Together with the 17th-century New Palace ("Palazzo Nuovo"), these buildings form the Capitoline Museum complex. Additionally, the 14th-century Santa Maria in Aracoeli basilica, situated on the second summit of the hill and connected to the ancient Roman Forum by a steep flight of stairs, adds to the historical richness. Another notable feature is the Cordonata, a wide ramp used for triumphal processions, which descends from the Forum to Campidoglio Square ("Piazza dei Campidoglio"), also designed by Michelangelo himself.

Why You Should Visit:
To immerse yourself in the history of ancient, medieval, and Renaissance eras, appreciating the significant artistic and architectural contributions of Michelangelo from the 1550s.

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 piazzas located behind the rear of the main building.

Il Vittoriano stands as a majestic memorial dedicated to Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of unified Italy. Positioned in Venice Square ("Piazza Venezia"), at the end of Corso Street ("Via del Corso") and near the Roman Forum, this monument is defined by the imposing equestrian statue of the king. Also known as the Altar of the Homeland, it spans an impressive 135 meters in width and 81 meters in height. Two colossal Italian tricolors and chariot sculptures adorn its sides, adding to its grandeur.

Although initially met with controversy and subjected to derogatory nicknames like the "wedding cake," the monument has endured over time and become one of the city's most popular attractions, following the Vatican and the Roman Ruins.

Adjacent to the king's statue on the right is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, established after World War I, with an eternal flame that is perpetually guarded by two soldiers. Ascending the central staircase rewards visitors with not only a view of the monument itself but also a panoramic vista over the city. This elevated spot offers an ideal opportunity for capturing memorable photos. For added convenience, a lift was installed in 2007, enabling visitors to reach the rooftop and enjoy a bird's-eye panorama of Rome (please note that there is a small fee for the ride).

At the base of the complex, visitors can explore the museum of Italian Unification, which offers free admission.

Why You Should Visit:
Despite some Italians considering it tacky, there is an undeniable allure in witnessing triumphal architecture that aspires to rival the grandeur of ancient structures.

Tip:
Visit Il Vittoriano at night when it is beautifully illuminated.

The Doria Pamphilj Palace boasts one of the largest private art collections in Rome, a remarkable achievement considering the city's renowned artistic heritage. Constructed in 1505 by a Catholic cardinal, the palace later came under the ownership of another cardinal whose niece, in turn, married Camillo Pamphilj, nephew of Pope Innocent X.

The palace's stately rooms feature vaulted ceilings and exquisite decorations, showcasing a vast array of Medieval and Byzantine art. One wing houses the Aldobrandini Gallery, which displays an eclectic mix of paintings and garden statues. In an adjoining chamber, you'll find a portrait of Pope Innocent X painted by Velazquez. The Gallery of Mirrors, inspired by the room of the same name in Versailles, is adorned with mirrors imported from France, creating a breathtaking atmosphere. The intricately intertwined ceiling fresco, depicting the Labors of Hercules, incorporates the Pamphilj family tree, alluding to their supposed connection to the legendary Greek hero. Meanwhile, the Primitives Room exhibits paintings executed on wooden panels.

Unlike other popular landmarks in Rome, the Doria Pamphilj Palace doesn't tend to get overly crowded, providing a serene and enjoyable experience at your own pace. There's no need to purchase a guided tour as a free audio guide is available, offering informative commentary that greatly enriches your visit. Each room and selected exhibits are numbered to correspond with the audio guide. In addition to the art collection, visitors can take pleasure in the delightful cafeteria and tea room, as well as peruse the bookshop.

Why You Should Visit:
While the Vatican Museums hold global fame and are highly popular, this impressive palace offers one of the most captivating and rewarding experiences in the city.

Tip:
For personal use (non-commercial), you can acquire a 'Photo Pass' from the bookshop, allowing you to capture memories of your visit.

A visit to Rome would be incomplete without witnessing the magnificent marble masterpiece of the Trevi Fountain. Throughout the day, the small Piazza di Trevi is bustling with crowds of visitors eager to behold this iconic attraction. Interestingly, a quick glance may lead one to believe that the fountain was constructed at the heart of the city, but in reality, it was the city that developed around the fountain.

Designed by architect Nicola Salvi in the 18th century, the fountain took an impressive 30 years to complete. Unfortunately, Salvi passed away midway through the project, never witnessing its full realization. One notable aspect of this fountain, among many others, is the striking contrast between its grandeur and the narrow alleyways and tiny squares that surround it. This intentional contrast serves to further impress visitors who are left in awe of such beauty.

The focal point of the Trevi Fountain ensemble is the statue of Oceanus riding in a chariot shaped like an oyster shell, pulled by two horses and guided by Tritons. One horse remains calm while the other prances, symbolizing the contrasting nature of the sea. On one side of Oceanus stands the statue of Abundance holding an urn, while on the other side, Salubrity holds a cup for a snake to drink from. Above the statues, a bas-relief depicts the legend of a young virgin who led Roman technicians to the water source feeding the aqueduct.

Every day, a considerable sum of money (approximately €3,000 worth of coins) is thrown into the Trevi Fountain for good luck. If you wish to partake in this tradition and have spare change, stand with your back to the fountain and toss a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand. The police ensure that this money is not taken by anyone and it is collected by municipal authorities for charitable purposes.

The surrounding piazza is also home to charming shops, souvenir stalls, delightful restaurants offering pizza and pasta, and enticing ice cream parlors. It is a lovely place to spend some time, immersing yourself in the ambiance of the area.

Why You Should Visit:
This marble wonder has to be seen in person to really appreciate its size and beauty.
Great walking distance from Piazza Navona, The Pantheon and, in reality, mostly everything.

Tip:
The fountain holds particular allure at night, especially after 10pm when it is beautifully illuminated and the crowds dissipate, allowing you to enjoy the site almost exclusively.