Rome has a millennium long history behind it. The city has been the epicenter of one of the greatest civilizations in the world ever. The ‘Eternal City’ is home to myriad attractions with its ancient basilicas and churches, wonderful palaces, astounding fountains, ornate statues and magnificent Roman monuments.
Discover the rich history and glorious heritage of Rome by visiting some of its top classic attractions. The prominent classic attractions visited by millions of tourists visiting Rome every year include The Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Roman Forum and Palatine, Pantheon, Vatican Museums, Galleria Borghese, Caravaggio’s, San Clemente and Museo dei Cappuccini.
Apart from these classic attractions, Rome also offers many other sightseeing opportunities. The popular attractions that are also must-visit include the Vatican City, Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. The city also has one of the excellent collections of ceiling frescoes, which can be seen at Palazzo Barberini on the Quirinale. Consider visiting the Galleria Borghese for seeing phenomenal art collection. The Galleria Doria Pamphilj, which is a privately owned art gallery, is also worth visiting. Here you will be mesmerized on seeing statuary, furniture and paintings dating 16th century. The National Gallery of Modern Art is also must see. It showcases works of famous artists made during the 19th and 20th century.
Here are some of the top classic attractions in Rome worth visiting. These are the following:
Colosseum
The Colosseum is among the top attractions in Italy. This most popular amphitheater is also the largest in the Roman world. The construction of the Colosseum was started in 72 AD by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty. Its construction was finally completed by his son Titus in 80 AD. The huge Colosseum had the capacity to accommodate nearly 50,000 spectators who were provided access from nearly 80 entrances. Roman emperors used to organize free games for entertaining the people. The games were either held for an entire day or even spanned for several days. The Colosseum was believed to be the most stunning building in the whole of Roman Empire. This largest building during the Roman era was originally called the Flavian Amphitheatre. The massive monumental structure is in ruins today, but it nevertheless still looks imposing and awesome.
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is the second most visited classic attraction in Rome. This huge church has been at the center of the Catholic world. It is the largest church in the world. The imposing monument took over 100 years to be built. The church’s interior is exquisitely designed. Here paintings of famous artists such as Michelangelo and Bernini can be seen. The interior’s height is 120 meter, fit enough to accommodated the Statue of Liberty. The majestic dome of St. Peter’s Basilica is the crowning piece of the entire monument. It’s a masterpiece, which has been painstakingly designed by Michelangelo. The church is situated in the Vatican City, west of Rome’s center, across the River Tiber.
Roman Forum and Palatine
The Roman Forum is yet another popular attraction which shouldn’t be missed out in any case during your Rome visit. The Roman Forum had for centuries regaled and decided the fate of ancient Romans. Elections and triumphal processions were conducted here. It was also a nucleus of commercial affairs and was used as a venue for public speeches.
The 40-meters-high Palatine Hill offers amazing views of the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus. Both these places are situated on either side of the hill. Presently, the Palatine Hill has transformed into a big open-air museum and is thronged by millions of visitors every year. The ruins on the hill to be visited include the House of Livia, the Baths of Septimus Severus, the Domus Augustana, and the Domus Flavia.
Pantheon
The imposing Pantheon is nearly 2000 years old. It stands as a testimony to the great Roman Empire. The Pantheon originally functioned as a temple dedicated to all pagan gods. The large marble columns and thick brick walls at the Pantheon instantly attract the visitors. The 43-meter high dome is the remarkable feature of this monument. Until 1436, it was world’s largest dome. In 609, the temple was however transformed into a church. The Pantheon is presently home to the tombs of many Italian kings and also of Raphael, a famous artist.
Vatican Museums
Vatican Museums originally started as a small collection of sculptures. It has, however, over the past centuries been converted into a full-fledged museum complex where one of the finest art collections in the world is prominently featured. The Vatican Museums owes its existence to two 18th century popes Clement XIV and Pius VI. Both the popes were instrumental in opening the impressive collections of art to the public. The main objective was to promote culture among the masses.
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