Guide to Rome. City of Rome. Sightseeing in Rome

One of the most popular places among tourists not only in Italy, but also in all of Europe, deservedly is the city of Rome. After all, its history is more than two and a half thousand years, and to this day there are a lot of historical monuments. In addition, the Vatican - Mecca for Catholics from all over the world is located in the city. Today we offer you a short guide to Rome. In it we will tell you about the main sights of the Italian capital, and also give another useful information for travelers.

Rome: photo of the city, its description and history

This city is located in the central part of the Apennine peninsula, near the place where the Tiber River flows into the Tyrrhenian Sea. Once this settlement was the center of a powerful Roman Empire. Today, Rome is the capital of Italy. Its population is about three million people. It is interesting that on the territory of Rome there are two independent state entities: the Vatican and a tiny enclave state of the Malta Order.

According to ancient legend, the city appeared in the VIII century BC. Its founder was one of the royal twins, who were nurtured by a wolf, - Romulus. They named the city in honor of their second brother, Remus. However, according to modern scholars, the first settlements on the site of modern Rome appeared long before the birth of Romulus and Remus. But in those days people inhabited only the hill Palatine. A large city, located on seven hills, Rome was much later.

At first the city was ruled by kings, then the Republic was proclaimed here, led by consuls (from the 5th century BC to the 30th AD). After this, Rome became a Roman Empire under the rule of emperors who were in power until the V century. After another seven centuries, secular ecclesiastical authority was established here, and the city became the seat of the Pope. The city was proclaimed the full capital of Italy in 1870.

Today, attracted by many interesting cultural and historical monuments, many tourists annually arrive in Rome. The city center, where the main part of the attractions is concentrated, was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and is under the patronage and protection of this organization. Thus, today, once again confirms the famous phrase that all roads lead to Rome. After all, almost every one of us dreams of being at least once in this Eternal City on seven hills.

Where to go in Rome?

If before you there is a map of the sights of Rome, then you can immediately note that in this city is really a huge number of historical monuments. Therefore, if you plan to spend only a couple of days in the Italian capital, then you should not try, as they say, "to embrace the immensity". In this case it is recommended to visit only the main attractions. We propose to learn more about them.

Pantheon

The Pantheon is an ancient temple, built two thousand years ago, during the reign of Emperor Augustus. This structure is rightfully considered one of the most remarkable in Rome. In ancient times, here worshiped the main Roman gods - Zeus, Neptune, Venus, Mars and others. During the services, a variety of animals were sacrificed, which today reminds us of a nine-meter hole in the dome of the temple, beneath which in the ancient times there was a sacrificial altar. In general, for its two thousand years of history, the Pantheon also visited a pagan temple, a bastion, and a church. But only in the Renaissance, thanks to the efforts of the unforgettable Raphael, he again regained his former greatness. Today the Pantheon attracts many tourists not only with its richest and most interesting history, but also with the fact that it has buried a number of Italian monarchs.

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Any guide to Rome must definitely visit this famous church. The basilica was erected on the site of an ancient church in the distant year 352. Then it was repeatedly rebuilt, becoming more grand and luxurious. The last reconstruction of the basilica was carried out in the XVIII century.

Plaza of Spain

This place in Rome is very popular with tourists. The square received its name in honor of the palace of Spain, built in 1622 and in those days the former residence of the Spanish ambassador in the Vatican. There is also a ladder of Spain. However, to climb it, it is necessary to overcome a number of difficulties, since its steps have an uneven shape and different heights. However, many tourists try to climb higher, so that, conveniently located on the steps, admire the magnificent view to the panorama of the north-eastern part of the Italian capital and the picturesque fountain of Barkaccha.

Vatican

If one of the points of your journey is Italy, Rome, a guide to this city will definitely recommend you to visit the Vatican. This state is the smallest in the world, and here is the residence of the Pope. In addition, there are a number of unique historical and cultural monuments on the territory of the Vatican: the Vatican Library, St. Peter's Square, the Popes of St. Nicholas V, the St. Peter's Cathedral with the Sistine Chapel and others.

Roman catacombs

No map of Rome's attractions is complete without mentioning the local catacombs. In total there are 67 of them on the territory of the city. In ancient times, there were burials of the deceased residents of the city. During the persecution of Christians, which lasted for four centuries at the very beginning of the first millennium AD, the Roman catacombs became shelters for the supporters of Orthodoxy. Here were the graves of the martyrs, after which the monasteries were erected. Despite the fact that the authorities of ancient Rome were engaged in the persecution of the first Christians, the homage of the inhabitants of this city to the dead was so great that the catacombs were not destroyed, but survived until our times.

Thermae

In ancient times, the therma served not so much as a bathing place, but as a place of public life for the Romans. Here we met with friends, made deals, and made useful acquaintances. The first baths were built in 25 BC before the Pantheon. The most large structures of this type, accommodating up to three thousand people, were erected by the order of Emperor Diocletian in the IV century. The terms were luxuriously decorated: they were decorated with sculptures, equipped with libraries, gardens, shopping halls, etc.

Coliseum

No guide to Rome does not ignore this majestic amphitheater. The Coliseum was built in the first century and became the largest building intended for mass entertainment throughout the Roman Empire. So, this amphitheater could simultaneously accommodate 50 thousand people. Until now, the Colosseum has not come in perfect condition. Nevertheless, this structure still retains its majestic spirit.

What to do besides sightseeing?

Of course, hitting the city of Rome for the first time, most tourists spend most of their time looking at historical monuments. However, if you do not want to go deep into history or come to the Italian capital for the first time, you can pay attention to other entertainments. For example, you can go to one of the concerts that are held at the Olympic Stadium. Here, quite often both Italian and foreign performers perform. Also a real find this city will be for fans of opera. The most impressive performances are held in the Terme of Caracalla. The summer season here always opens with the setting of the Roman Opera House.

Rome is an expanse for fans of football. It is here that two well-known football clubs "Roma" and "Lazio" are based. So it's no wonder that a rather significant part of tourists in Rome are fans.

Night life

Since Rome is a modern metropolis, it can boast a rather stormy nightlife. In the center of the city you will find many cafes, clubs and bars where you can have a great evening.

Shopping

Any guide to Rome necessarily includes information about shopping in this city. The main shopping street in the Italian capital is Via del Corso, stretching from Piazza del Popolo to the central square of the city. It can be reached by both land and underground transport. By the way, the metro map of Rome can be found everywhere: in the guidebook, in the newspaper tray, at the public transport stop, etc. So, if you decide to go by subway, then you need to choose line A and get off at Flaminio station.

Another street that is attractive to shopaholics is Via Nazionale. It stretches from Termini Station to Piazza Venezia. On both sides of the street there are many shops and boutiques of famous brands.

Kitchen

For the sake of justice, it should be noted that Rome, like Italy as a whole, attracts millions of tourists not only thanks to its historical and cultural attractions, but also local cuisine, which, incidentally, is considered one of the best in the world. Therefore, having arrived in the Eternal City, you can pamper yourself and in the gastronomic plan.

Local catering establishments are of various types: pizzerias (this is the simplest and most democratic option), restaurants, cafes, taverns and restaurants. Also it should be noted that no matter where you dine - in an expensive restaurant or a cheap pizzeria, be sure: you will always be served a delicious and high-quality cooked dish. After all, Italians have great respect for food and their guests.