Rome

Rome is a city with an unparalleled history, spanning nearly three millennia. It’s often called the “Eternal City” because of its enduring influence and continuous habitation.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of Rome, from its ancient origins to its modern-day charm.

1. The Historical Layers of Rome

Rome’s history is visible everywhere you look, with layers of different eras standing side-by-side.

• The Founding & Kingdom (c. 753–509 BC): According to legend, Rome was founded by the twins Romulus and Remus in 753 BC on the Palatine Hill. This period was ruled by kings.

• The Roman Republic (509–27 BC): Rome became a republic, governed by the Senate and elected officials. During this time, it expanded to dominate the entire Mediterranean. Key figures include Julius Caesar.

• The Roman Empire (27 BC–476 AD): This was the peak of Rome’s power and grandeur. The first emperor, Augustus, began a period of immense construction. Iconic structures like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum were built. The Empire stretched from Britain to the Middle East.

• The Papal States & Renaissance (c. 700–1870): After the fall of the Western Empire, Rome became the center of the Catholic Church. The Pope ruled the city, and it became a major center of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Artists like Michelangelo, Bernini, and Raphael left an indelible mark, creating masterpieces like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

• Modern Italy (1870–Present): Rome became the capital of a unified Italy in 1870. It was the seat of Fascist rule under Mussolini and is now the political and cultural heart of the Italian Republic.

2. Major Attractions: Ancient vs. Religious vs. Baroque

Rome’s attractions can be grouped into these key categories:

Ancient Rome:

• Colosseum: The iconic amphitheater where gladiators fought.

• Roman Forum: The political, religious, and commercial heart of ancient Rome.

• Palatine Hill: The legendary birthplace of Rome, with ruins of imperial palaces.

• Pantheon: A miraculously preserved Roman temple (now a church) with the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.

Vatican City (an independent city-state within Rome):

• St. Peter’s Basilica: The largest church in the world, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.

• Vatican Museums: Home to countless artistic treasures, culminating in the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s ceiling.

Renaissance & Baroque Rome:

• Trevi Fountain: The stunning Baroque fountain where tossing a coin ensures your return to Rome.

• Piazza Navona: A beautiful square built on the site of an ancient stadium, featuring Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers.

• Spanish Steps: A famous staircase leading from the Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti church.

3. The Roman Lifestyle & Culture

• “La Dolce Vita”: This phrase, meaning “the sweet life,” encapsulates the Roman approach to living. It’s about enjoying good food, beautiful surroundings, and the company of friends and family.

• Food: Roman cuisine is simple, seasonal, and delicious. Must-try dishes include:

  • Pasta alla Carbonara (eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale, black pepper)

  • Pasta all’Amatriciana (tomato, guanciale, pecorino)

  • Cacio e Pepe (pecorino cheese and black pepper)

  • Supplì (fried rice balls with tomato and mozzarella)

• Piazzas: The city’s squares are its living rooms. Romans gather in piazzas day and night to socialize, drink coffee, and people-watch.

4. Practical Tips for Visiting

• Best Time to Go: Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. August is very hot and many locals are on holiday.

• Getting Around: The city center is very walkable. For longer distances, Rome has a metro system (though limited in the historic center), buses, and trams.

• Planning is Key: For major sites like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums, book your tickets online well in advance to avoid extremely long queues.

In a Nutshell

Rome is not just a museum; it’s a vibrant, bustling capital where ancient history and modern life coexist seamlessly. It’s a city where you can have a cappuccino next to a 2,000-year-old temple and watch the world go by in a piazza designed by Bernini.