Though one could spend a month or more in Rome and never see everything there is to see, there are eight must-see sights for the first-time visitor.
1. St. Peter's Basilica -- One of the most famous churches in the world, St. Peter's is monumental in scope. Its majesty is clear both in and out. The Piazza San Pietro is a grand entrance to the church itself. A unusual treat within is Michelangelo's Pieta that some consider his greatest work. Also, climb 537 steps to the apex of the great dome for a breathtaking view of all of Rome. Additionally, you might want to take in the Sistine Chapel with its frescoed ceiling by Michelangelo and the scenes from Genesis. Allow at least three hours after entry to fully appreciate everything St. Peter's has to give.
2. The Colosseum -- One of Rome's most renowned attractions, the Colosseum will not disillusion. There's much to explore, and a addition of Rome's history in photos and words can easily eat up a couple of hours. Plan accordingly .
3. The Pantheon -- Rome's best preserved ancient building, the Pantheon was built in the initial century A.D. The only light entering the inside is from a circular opening - the oculus -- in its big, hemispherical dome hidden behind the classical facade. Be sure to check visiting hours as the Pantheon tends to close early at times .
4. Roman Forum -- wandering through the Forum, one can feel the spooks of ancient Rome haunting what was one of the most active arenas in daily their daily existance. Though lots of the Forum has been reduced to outwardly rubble, it is nonetheless of great historic significance. One used to ready to ramble the Forum when required. Unfortunately, today it is another holiday maker trap with entrance charges. It's still a must-see sight.
5. Trevi Fountain -- Rome's biggest, most famous, and one would say most beautiful fountain, the Trevi is actually the end of an aqueduct that supplied water to the fountains in Rome's important center. Legend has it you will return to Rome if you throw a coin into the water. You need to chuck it over your shoulder with your back to the fountain.
6. Victor Emmanuel Monument -- One of the grandest tributes to any man, this huge structure was begun in 1885 and completed in 1911 to respect Victor Emmanuel II, the 1st king of unified Italy. Its bulk hides another grand attraction of much greater antiquity -- The Capitoline Hill with its museums of some of the finest sculptures in Rome.
7. Spanish Steps -- a meeting place for literally crowds of people both night and day, the Piazza di Spagna is the most famous square in Rome. It is at the end of the through Condotti, one of Rome's most trendy shopping districts with names like Gucci, Armani, Valentino and Bruno Magli on the storefronts. As a side treat, don't miss one of most differently designed McDonald's in the world solely to right of the Spanish Steps. There are also so particularly spectacular Rome apartments in this area of the city.
8. Piazza Navona -- The area round the Piazza Navona has been is sometimes known as the centro storico ( important center ) and has been inhabited for over two thousand years. The square itself follows the shape of a 1st-century stadium that was employed for chariot races, athletic contests and other sports. Today it is the social center of the city. The piazza is lined with palaces and path cafes punctuated by outlandish Baroque fountains. Watch your pocketbook here. An espresso and a biscotti ( Italian coffee and a cookie ) could run fifteen EU Dollars ( including tip ). Ouch!!
Of course, there's much , much more to Rome -- more than one person could see in a whole life. If you have more time to spend in The eternal city, check guides for other attractions of interest. If you want to see all the attractions in your own time, at your own rate, there isn't any better place to stay than in a Rome apartment located in the centre of the city.
No comments:
Post a Comment