Rome is one of the world’s greatest and most storied cities. Though it is a proper international city today, you can still see the remains of its ancient past and trace the story of the Roman empire.
It’s impossible to take it all in during one visit, but if you see only these sites, you’ll have scratched the surface of this amazing place.
This photo of Ancient Rome is courtesy of TripAdvisor
Colosseum
You simply cannot visit Rome with going to the Colosseum, one of the most famous structures on earth. Built in the 1st century AD, it was a place of meeting and entertainment for hundreds of years. Here is where gladiators fought wild beasts to the death, a brutal source of entertainment yet one of those that continues to be widely recalled. Allow yourself to feel the power of history as you stand at these massive ruins.
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
A must if you’re already visiting the Colosseum, this was once the “commercial, political and religious center of ancient Rome,” according to TripAdvisor. You can buy a joint ticket for these and the Colosseum, and why wouldn’t you? If you’re going to immerse yourself in Roman history, better go all the way. The ruins are remarkably well-preserved, and it is a privilege to walk among them and consider the discourses and socializing that went on here all of those centuries ago.
St. Peter’s Basilica
Another cultural landmark, this is a must visit even if you aren’t Catholic. Marvel at the stunning, meticulous detail work within this beautiful cathedral, and climb to the top of the dome for views of the entire city. Past visitors have said that, religious or not, St. Peter’s will leave a lasting impression thanks to the immense beauty and majesty of the place. This is a very popular attraction, but lines are said to move swiftly so you won’t have time to get cranky before marveling at the artistry and craftsmanship here.
Trevi Fountain
You’ll have to fight the crowds here but with great incentive – it’s said that anyone who throws a coin into the Trevi Fountain will want to return to Rome, and who wouldn’t be willing to muscle through some tourists for a chance at that? True to the city’s character, the Trevi Fountain is an incredible work of art, with ornate detailing and a sense that, if only for a moment, you’ve gone back in time.
Trajan’s Column
Here you’ll find an elaborate column topped by a six-meter tall statue of the emperor Trajan, an imposing figure even in today’s Rome. This ancient piece of propaganda was erected to stand as testament to Trajan’s victories in the Dacian Wars, and has been widely praised by past visitors for the intricacy of the artwork on the column, which is adorned with reliefs from Trajan’s campaigns.