Rome (Italy) is one of the greatest cities in the world. Its history goes back thousands of years. The city impresses with its monumental architecture, fabulous squares, colorful markets and streets full of interesting people - magnificence is just around the corner.

But if you're going on a trip to Rome, you need a clear plan. Otherwise, there is a risk of congestion from the many things to see in the Eternal City.

We have collected for you in one list the main tourist attractions of the city of Rome with photos and descriptions: from the most famous Roman ruins to majestic churches, art museums class, charming squares and lively food markets.

You probably won't be able to get by with just one trip to Rome to see all of the attractions on this list and the ones that didn't fit. But you have to start somewhere!

Founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century and expanded by successive pontiffs, the Vatican Museums boast one of the greatest art collections in the world.

The exhibits, which occupy about 7 km of halls and corridors, are as diverse as possible: from Egyptian mummies and Etruscan bronze objects to ancient busts, from paintings that have become classics to modern works.

Top places to visit: the impressive collection of classical sculptures at the Pio Clementino Museum, several exhibition halls frescoed by Raphael, and Michelangelo's painted Sistine Chapel.

Address: Musei Vaticani, Viale Vaticano, Rome, Italy.

You can visit as part of excursions:

The great gladiatorial arena of Rome is the most spectacular of the ancient sights of the city. Opened in AD 80, the 50,000-seat Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, was built from travertine and covered by a huge canvas awning raised by 240 masts.

Inside, the arena was surrounded by multi-level stands, and it was built over an underground complex (hypogeum), where the animals sat and the scenery was prepared. The games involved gladiators fighting wild animals or each other.

Address: Colosseo, Piazza del Colosseo, Rome, Italy.

Entrance: Paid.

Tickets:

The Colosseum can be visited as part of excursions:

A collection of ruins, the Roman Forum was once the centerpiece of ancient Rome, a grandiose area of ​​temples, basilicas and vibrant public spaces.

This site, which was originally an Etruscan burial ground, was first settled in the 7th century BC, and over time became the social, political and commercial center of the Roman Empire. Sights include the Arch of Septemia Severus, the Curia and the House of the Vestals.

Like many of the great cities of ancient Rome, the forum lost its importance after the fall of the Roman Empire, until it eventually came to be used as a grazing land. In the Middle Ages, it was known as Campo Vaccino ("Cow Field") and was looted for its stones and marbles.

The area began to be explored systematically in the 18th and 19th centuries, and excavations continue to this day.

Address: Foro Romano, Via della Salara Vecchia, Rome, Italy.

The Roman Forum can be visited as part of excursions:

Saint Paul's Cathedral

There are many outstanding churches in this city, but none of them can compare with St. Peter's Basilica - the largest, richest and most impressive basilica in Italy. Built on the site of a 4th century church, it was consecrated in 1626 after 120 years of construction had been completed.

Its sumptuous interior features many famous works of art, including three of Italy's most famous masterpieces: Michelangelo's Pieta, its soaring dome, and Bernini's 29-metre canopy over the papal altar.

At the cathedral, you will most likely have a queue waiting for you and a strict dress code (no shorts, miniskirts or bare shoulders are allowed).

Address: St. Peter's Basilica, Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City, Papal See (Vatican City State).

Peter's Basilica can be visited as part of excursions:

Nestled between the Roman Forum and the Circus Massimo, the Palatine Hill is an atmospheric area of ​​towering pine trees, majestic ruins and unforgettable views. It is believed that it was here that Romulus founded the city in 753 BC, and here, in crazy luxury, the emperors of Rome lived.

Pay attention to the stadium, the ruins of Domus Flavia ( imperial palace) and stands overlooking the Roman Forum from Orti Farnesiani.

Address: Palatino, Rome, Italy.

If you only have time to visit one art gallery in Rome, come here. Here is what is often called "the queen of all private art collections": the gallery boasts paintings by Caravaggio, Raphael and Titian, as well as some unknown sculptures by Bernini.

There is something to see in general, but look first for Ratto di Proserpina (The Abduction of Proserpina) by Bernini and Venere vincitrice (Venus Vitrix) by Canova.

In order to limit the number of visitors, they are admitted at two-hour intervals, so you need to pre-book your tickets and know the entrance time.

Address: Museo e Galleria Borghese, Piazzale Scipione Borghese, Rome, Italy.

Capitoline Museums

Capitoline Museum. | Photo: dvdbramhall/Flickr.

Built in 1471, the Capitoline Museums are the oldest public museums in the world. Their collection of classical sculpture is one of the finest in Italy, including the famous Lupa Capitolina (Capitoline Wolf), Romulus and Remus Under the Wolf, and Galata morente (The Dying Gaul) depicting the death of a war.

There is also a huge art gallery with masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, Rubens and Caravaggio.

Address: Musei Capitolini, Piazza del Campidoglio, Rome, Italy.

A magnificent temple with 2000 years of history, now a church, the Pantheon is the best preserved of the ancient Roman monuments and one of the most influential buildings in Western world. Built by Hadrian on the basis of an earlier temple of Marcus Agrippa in 27 BC, it has been standing here since about 125 AD, and although its gray appearance is appropriate for its era, it is still a unique and moving monument. .

You definitely need to go through the huge bronze doors and look at the largest unreinforced concrete dome.

Hadrian's temple was dedicated to the classical gods, hence the name Pantheon, derived from the Greek words pan (all) and theos (god). But in 608 the temple was consecrated as a Christian church and is now officially called the Basilica di Santa Maria ad Martires.

The real charm of the Pantheon lies in its sheer size and impressive dome. Considered the greatest architectural achievement of the ancient Romans, it was the largest dome in the world until the 15th century and is still the largest unreinforced concrete dome today.

Its harmonious appearance is due to precisely adjusted symmetry - the diameter of the dome is exactly equal to the internal height of the Pantheon at 43.4 meters.

At its center, the 8.7 m diameter oculus, which symbolically linked the temple to the gods, plays a vital role in geometry, absorbing and redistributing the dome's enormous tension forces. Rainwater enters but drains through 22 nearly invisible holes in the sloping marble floor.

Address: Pantheon, Piazza della Rotonda, Rome, Italy.

You can visit as part of the tour:

Price calendar for tours to Rome:

Lateran Basilica (Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano)

Lateran Basilica. | Photo: Paval Hadzinski / Flickr.

For a thousand years, this monumental cathedral was the most important church in Christendom. Commissioned by Constantine and consecrated in 324 AD, it was the first Christian basilica built in the city. Until the end of the 14th century, it was the main place of worship for the pope. It is still the official cathedral of Rome and the seat of the Pope as Bishop of Rome.

Address: Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, Rome, Italy.

The Trevi Fountain, the scene of Anita Ekberg's bathing scene in La Dolce Vita (The Dolce Vita), is a flamboyant Baroque ensemble of mythical figures and wild horses that occupies the entire side of the 17th-century Palazzo Poli.

After a restoration sponsored by Fendi in 2015, the fountain shimmers brighter than before. A tradition is maintained here that guarantees a return to Rome - throwing a coin into the water. On average, about 3,000 euros are thrown into the fountain every day.

Address: Fontana di Trevi, Piazza di Trevi, Rome, Italy.

Navona Square

Navona Square.

With its spectacular fountains, baroque palazzo, colorful actors and street artists, hawkers and tourists, Piazza Navona is an elegant expression of culture in the center of Rome.

Built on the site of the 1st century Domitiano Stadium, it was paved in the 15th century and was the city's main market for nearly 300 years. central part includes the "Fountain of the Four Rivers" by sculptor Bernini - this is a bright fountain with an Egyptian obelisk and muscular personifications of the rivers Nile, Ganges, Danube and La Plata.

Address: Piazza Navona, Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy.

The road is named after the consul Appius Claudius Caecus, who laid the first 90 km section in 312 BC. It was the main road Rome, later in 190 BC, it was extended in order to be able to reach Brindisi.

The Appian Way has long been one of Rome's most exclusive spots, a beautiful cobbled thoroughfare surrounded by grassy fields, Roman buildings and towering pine trees. The most magnificent building on it was the Villa dei Quintili, so coveted that the emperor Commodus killed its owner and took possession of it himself.

This road has a dark history - it was here that Spartacus and 6000 of his slave followers were crucified in 71 BC, and it was here that the first Christians buried people in three hundred kilometers of underground catacombs. You won't be able to visit all 300 km, but the three main catacombs of San Callisto, San Sebastiano and Santa Domitilla are open to the public.

Address: Parco Regionale Appia Antica, Via Appia Antica, Rome, Italy.

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. | Photo: Mario T. / Flickr.

One of Rome's four patriarchal basilicas, this monumental 5th-century church stands atop the Esquiline Hill, where snow is said to have miraculously fallen in the summer of AD 358. To commemorate this event, every year on August 5, thousands of white petals are lowered from the coffered ceiling of the basilica.

Changed over the centuries, this architectural hybrid impresses with a 14th-century Romanesque bell tower, an 18th-century Baroque façade, a mostly Baroque interior, and a series of magnificent 5th-century mosaics.

Address: Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza di San Maria Maggiore, Rome, Italy.

You can visit as part of the tour:

National Museum of Rome: Palazzo Massimo alle Terme. | Photo: Richard Cassan / Flickr.

One of the greatest museums in Rome, an incredible treasure trove of classical art. The first and second floors are devoted to sculpture, some of the works are simply breathtaking. Look at the Pugile (Boxer), Greek bronze from the 2nd century BC, the graceful Ermafrodite dormiente (Sleeping Hermaphrodite) also from the 2nd century BC. e. and the idealized Il discobolo (The Discus Thrower).

On the second floor, there are magnificent colored frescoes that are worth seeing.

Address: Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, Largo di Villa Peretti, Rome, Italy.

Gallery Doria Pamphili

Gallery Doria-Pamphili. | Photo: damian entwistle / Flickr.

Hidden behind a dingy gray façade of the Palazzo Doria Pamphili, this wonderful gallery boasts one of the richest private collections in Rome, containing works by Raphael, Tintoretto, Titian, Caravaggio, Bernini and Velasquez, as well as several Flemish masters.

Masterpieces abound, but the undisputed star is Velasquez's portrait of the implacable Pope Innocent X, who resented that the image was "too real." For comparison, see Gian Lorenzo Bernini's sculptural interpretation of the same character.

Address: Galleria Doria Pamphilj, Corso, Rome, Italy.

Basilica di Sant'Agnese Fuori le Mura & Mausoleo di Santa Costanza. | Photo: Allie_Caulfield / Flickr.

Although it's a little tricky, it's worth looking into this intriguing medieval church complex. Located above the catacombs where Saint Agnes was buried.

It includes the Basilica of Sant'Agnes Fuori le Mura, home to a stunning Byzantine mosaic of saints, and the Mausoleum of Santa Costanza, a 4th-century circular mausoleum adorned with some of the oldest mosaics in Christendom.

Address: Basilica di Sant'Agnese fuori le Mura, Via Nomentana, Rome, Italy.

Church of the Gesu (Il Gesu). | Photo: Karim Rezk / Flickr.

An impressive example of Counter-Reformation architecture, Rome's most important Jesuit church is a fabulous example of Baroque art. Major works include the vault fresco by Giovanni Battista Gaulli (aka Il Baciccia) and the sumptuous tomb of Andrea del Pozzo for Ignatius of Loyola, the Spanish soldier and saint who led the Jesuits in 1540.

Saint Ignatius lived in the church from 1544 until his death in 1556 and you can visit his private rooms in the Cappella di Sant'Ignazio.

Address: Chiesa del Gesù, Via degli Astalli, Rome, Italy.

National Museum of Rome: Palazzo Altemps. | Photo: dvdbramhall/Flickr.

Located just north of Piazza Navona, Palazzo Altemps is a beautiful late 15th-century palazzo that houses the best of the National Museum of Rome's vast collection of classical sculpture. Many of the pieces come from the famous Ludovisi collection, collected by Cardinal Ludovico Ludovisi in the 17th century.

Address: Museo Nazionale Romano, Palazzo Altemps, Piazza di Sant'Apollinare, Rome, Italy.

Basilica of San Paolo Fuori le Mura

Basilica of San Paolo Fuori le Mura.

This magnificent basilica is the largest church in Rome after St. Peter's (and the third largest in the world), and stands on the site where St. Paul was buried after his beheading in 67 AD.

Built by Constantine in the 4th century, it was largely destroyed by fire in 1823 and much of what you see is a 19th century reconstruction.

Address: Basilica Papale San Paolo fuori le Mura, Piazzale San Paolo, Rome, Italy.

Plaza de España and the Spanish Steps

Spanish stairs. | Photo: Paolo Margari / Flickr.

The Spanish Steps (Scalinata della Trinità dei Monti), which has been attracting visitors since the 18th century, is perfect place to observe people. 135 glittering steps rise from Piazza di Spagna to the famous landmark of Chiesa della Triniti dei Monti.

Plaza de España was named after the Spanish embassy to the Holy See, but the staircase itself, designed by the Italian Francesco de Santis, was built in 1725 with money bequeathed by a French diplomat.

Address: Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti, Plaza of Spain, Rome, Italy.

Palazzo Column

Gallery Column. | Photo: dvdbramhall/Flickr.

This sumptuous 17th-century gallery, the only part of the Palazzo Colonna open to the public, houses the private art collection of the Colonna family.

The six rooms of the gallery are topped with magnificent ceiling frescoes dedicated to Marcantonio Colonna, the family's greatest ancestor who defeated the Turks at the naval battle of Lepanto in 1571. The works of Giovanni Coli and Filippo Gherardi in the Great Hall, Sebastiano Ricci in the Room of Landscapes and Giuseppe Bartolomeo Chiari in the Throne Room speak of his merits.

Note also the cannonball lodged in the gallery's marble staircase, a stark reminder of the 1849 siege of Rome.

The other wing includes the sumptuous Chapel Hall and a rich collection of 17th-century Artemisia tapestries. The terrace café is open from May to October.

Address: Galleria Colonna, Via della Pilotta, Rome, Italy.

You can visit as part of the tour:

Castle of the Holy Angel.

This circular fortress castle is an instantly recognizable landmark. Built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, it was converted into a papal fortress in the 6th century and named after a vision of an angel that Pope Gregory the Great had in 590.

It currently houses the National Museum of Castel Sant'Angelo and its collection of paintings, sculptures, military memorabilia and medieval firearms.

Address: Castel Sant'Angelo, Lungotevere Castello, Rome, Italy.

Basilica of Saint Clement

Basilica of Saint Clement.

Nowhere is the various stages of Rome's turbulent past better captured than in this fascinating tiered church. The 12th-century above ground basilica sits on the foundations of a 4th-century church, which in turn rises above a 2nd-century pagan temple and a 1st-century Roman house.

Address: Basilica di San Clemente, Via Labicana, Rome, Italy.

Palazzo Barberini. | Photo: Stin Shen / Flickr.

Built to celebrate the rise of the Barberini family to papal power, the Barberini Palace is an opulent Baroque palace that impresses even before you see the breathtaking art. Many famous architects worked on it, including competitors Bernini and Borromini.

Among the masterpieces, don't miss Pietro da Cortona's Il Trionfo della Divina Provvidenza (The Triumph of Divine Providence 1632–39) and the most spectacular frescoes on the ceiling of the palazzo in the main hall on the first floor.

Address: Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica in Palazzo Barberini, Via delle Quattro Fontane, Rome, Italy.

Baths of Caracalla.

The remains of the bath complex of Emperor Caracalla are among the most impressive Roman ruins. The complex was opened in 216 AD and occupied a plot of 10 hectares. There were baths, gyms, libraries, shops and gardens. Up to 8,000 people used the complex daily.

Most of the ruins are what is left of the central bath. It was a huge rectangular building, surrounded by two sports halls and located in the center of the frigidarium (cold room), where bathers stopped after the warm tepidarium and the domed caldarium (hot room).

Address: Terme di Caracalla, Viale delle Terme di Caracalla, Rome, Italy.

You can visit as part of the tour:

Villa Medici. | Photo: marthelelievre / Flickr.

This sumptuous Renaissance palace was originally built for Cardinal Ricci da Montepulciano in 1540, but bought by Ferdinando de' Medici in 1576. It remained in Medici hands until 1801 when Napoleon purchased it for the French Academy.

Address: Villa Medici, Viale della Trinità dei Monti, Rome, Italy.

Trajan Market.

Trajan's Market - the ruins of commercial buildings at the Forum of Trajan in Rome. It was a 5-storey complex built by Apollodorus of Damascus. The building was located on a hillside and was built in the form of terraces. It contained about 150 retail outlets, taverns, eateries and distribution points for free products for the population.

Each shop had an exit (vitrina) to the street. The shops sold spices, fruits, wine, olive oil, fish, silk and other goods from the East. In the middle of the market was Via Biberatica - a street named after the taverns located on it.

Address: Mercati di Traiano, Via Quattro Novembre, Rome, Italy.

Santa Maria del Popolo

Santa Maria del Popolo. | Photo: vgm8383 / Flickr.

A magnificent repository of art, this is one of the earliest and richest Roman churches of the Renaissance.

Of the many works of art on display, two of Caravaggio's masterpieces stand out: The Conversion of Saint Paul (1601) and The Crucifixion of Saint Peter (1601) in the chapel to the left of the main altar. But there are other great works here as well.

Address: Basilica Parrocchiale Santa Maria del Popolo, Piazza del Popolo, Rome, Italy.

San Luigi dei Francesi

The church in the French community of Rome has been known since 1589. This sumptuous Baroque church is home to Caravaggio's famous trio of paintings: Vocazione di San Matteo (The Call of Saint Matthew), Martirio di San Matteo (The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew) and San Matteo e l'angelo (Saint Matthew and the Angel), collectively known as the Cycle Saint Matthew.

These three canvases, housed in the Cappella Contarelli to the left of the main altar, are among the earliest of Caravaggio's religious works, painted between 1600 and 1602, with realism and a startling use of chiaroscuro (bold contrast of light and dark).

Address: San Luigi dei Francesi, Piazza di San Luigi de' Francesi, Rome, Italy.

Catacombs of Saint Sebastian

Catacombs of Saint Sebastian.

These underground catacombs extending under the Basilica of San Sebastiano were the first to be called catacombs - the name comes from the Greek kata (nearby) and kimbas (hollow) because they were located next to the cave.

The catacombs have been largely used since the 1st century, and during the persecutive reign of Vespasian, they provided shelter for the remains of Saints Peter and Paul.

Level 1 is now almost completely destroyed, but frescoes, stucco and epigraphs can be seen on level 2. There are also three perfectly preserved mausoleums and a stucco wall with hundreds of invocations to Peter and Paul, engraved by believers in the 3rd and 4th centuries.

Above the catacombs is the basilica, a heavily altered 4th-century church that houses one of the arrows allegedly used to kill Saint Sebastian and the column to which he was tied.

Address: Catacombe di San Sebastiano, Via Appia Antica, Rome, Italy.

Quirinal Palace. | Photo: Martha de Jong-Lantink / Flickr.

This huge palace overlooking the Piazza del Quirinale is the official residence of the head of the Italian state, namely the President of the Republic. For almost three centuries it was the pope's summer residence, but in 1870 Pope Pius IX handed over the keys to the new king of Italy. Later, in 1948, the palace was transferred to the Italian state.

Address: Palazzo del Quirinale, Piazza del Quirinale, Rome, Italy.

This dazzling square was founded in 1538 and is located at the north gate of Rome. Since then, it has been rebuilt several times, most recently by Giuseppe Valadier in 1823. In the center of the square there is a 36-meter obelisk, which was brought by Augustus from ancient egypt, originally it stood in Circo Massimo.

Address: Piazza del Popolo, Piazza del Popolo, Rome, Italy.

Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere. | Photo: Scott Sherrill-Mix / Flickr.

Set in a quiet corner of the central Piazza Trastevere, this is said to be the oldest church dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Rome. In its original form, it dates from the beginning of the 3rd century, but underwent major rebuilding in the 12th century with the addition of a Romanesque bell tower and a sparkling façade. The portico came later, added by Carlo Fontana in 1702. Inside is a 12th century mosaic.

Address: Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, Rome, Italy.

Main Villa.

The Roman headquarters of the Sovereign Order of Malta, also known as Cavalieri Di Malta (Knights of Malta), is located in a square shaded by cypress trees, offering one of the most famous views of Rome.

Address: Piazza dei Cavalieri Di Malta, Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, Rome, Italy.

National Museum Villa Giulia.

The 16th-century villa of Pope Julius III provides an enchanting setting for displaying the finest Italian collections of Etruscan and Roman treasures. Artifacts, many of which come from tombs around the Lazio region, range from bronze statuettes and black bucker cutlery to temple decorations, terracotta vases and fine jewelry.

Attractions include the polychrome terracotta statue of Apollo from the temple at Veio and the Sarcofago degli Sposi (sarcophagus of the betrothed), found in 1881 at Cerveteri.

Address: Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia, Piazzale di Villa Giulia 9, Rome, Italy.

Getting to know Rome is worth gradually, without rushing. And to be honest, it is simply unrealistic to see all the sights of Rome in one day. But you can try to see the most basic of them, falling in love with the Eternal City of Rome step by step.

Coliseum

Let's start our route with the main symbol of Rome - the Colosseum. It is located at the exit of their blue line metro station and is often within walking distance of hotels in the center of Rome.

Colosseum (Colosseo) The symbol of Rome, Italy and the glory of the ancient imperial past of the Eternal City. It is officially recognized as one of the seven wonders of the world. This is the largest Roman monument among those that have survived to our time.

Initially, this majestic building was called the Flavius ​​Amphitheatre. It is associated with the name of the founder of the Flavian dynasty, the Roman emperor Vespasian, who began its construction in 70 AD. The construction of the amphitheater was completed after his death, in 80 AD. In the same year (during the reign of Emperor Titus, heir to the throne), he was introduced to the citizens of Rome. Celebrations on this occasion, as ancient historians testify, lasted for 100 days.

It is hard to believe, but almost 50 thousand spectators could be in the Colosseum at the same time. Its height exceeded 44 m. The stands of the amphitheater were located on 4 floors, the height of each of which ranged from 9.7 to 12.8 m. his tribune.

More: http://arhjournal.org/blogs/purnima-madhu/rimskiy-kolizey-interesnye-fakty

Over time, with the advent of Christianity in Rome, the Colosseum fell into disuse and became just a quarry of marble, lead and iron, taken from here to build buildings in the Vatican, the Barberini and San Petro palaces. For a time it was a hospital, a hermitage and a cemetery. Now only the skeleton of the Colosseum remains, and what we see as windows in the walls are nothing but holes drilled to extract lead and iron.

Next to the Colosseum is the Arch of Constantine, which is described in our ranking of the most beautiful triumphal arches in Rome.

Roman Forums

If you move from the Colosseum along the wide street via dei Fori Imperiali, you can see all the most famous forums of the Eternal City: from the most ancient forum of Caesar (46th century BC) to the most modern - the forum and market of Emperor Trajan (112th century AD) .

The forums were located in the main squares of the city, where there were public buildings and a market. They were built in different years within a century and a half, from 46 BC. before 113 AD and have retained their greatness to this day.

Opposite, on the other side of via dei Fori Imperiali, are Trajan's Markets and Trajan's Column.

Trajan, who ruled from AD 98 to 117, built this magnificent forum to commemorate victories in several military campaigns, in particular after the conquest of Dacia. The construction was carried out by the architect Apollodorus from Damascus. In the process of work, he managed to skillfully cut off the upper part of the Quirinale hill. And so that the hill would not collapse, the arcades of the Trajan's Market, the very first and largest "shopping center" in Rome and, perhaps, in the world, were built on it.

Capitol

The Capitol (Capitol Hill; Italian: il Campidoglio) is one of the seven hills on which Ancient Rome arose. On the Capitol was the Capitol Temple, which was also called the Capitol, where meetings of the Senate and people's meetings took place.

In the time of Romulus and Remus, it was an impregnable cliff with two peaks and a small valley between them, protected from all sides. sheer cliffs. The only way to climb the Capitol was from the Forum.

Here stood the temple of Capitoline Jupiter, dedicated to the divine triad - Jupiter, Juno and Minerva and the temple of Juno Moneta.

The construction of the temple of Jupiter began under Tarquinius Gordom, but ended only in the first years of the republic. The temple stood on a high foundation and had the shape of a quadrangle.

In 83 BC the temple of Jupiter was set on fire and burned to the ground with all the riches. Caesar restored the temple. But fires haunted the temple of Jupiter, it burned and was restored several times.

The temple was distinguished by its special splendor under Domitian, even the tiles on the roof were made of gilded bronze.

Later, the Temple of Jupiter was looted and destroyed, leaving no trace of it.

The temple was located approximately where the church of Santa Maria in Araceli is today.

The nickname Moneta (under the verb "moneo" - to warn) appeared after the warning of the goddess Juno to the Romans during the war with Taranto (272 century BC). The sacred geese of Juno warned the Romans about the impending attack of the Gauls.

Next to the temple was a mint. By the way, metal money, minted at the mint at the temple of Juno Coin, began to be called in Rome, and later in other countries, coins.

Now you can climb the hill using three stairs: the left one (122 steps) rises steeply to the church of Santa Maria in Araceli; central, wide and sloping, staircase with a border by Michelangelo; and on the right there is another inconspicuous staircase and a driveway.

The Capitoline Hill was rebuilt in the 16th century by Michelangelo.

We wrote about how to buy entrance tickets to the main attractions of Rome here

Book tours in Rome

The eternal city of Rome, the capital of Italy, is one of the most visited by tourists. Listening to the echoes of history, wandering through the amazing gardens, admiring the ancient buildings here can be endless. And as the legend says, wherever the weary traveler goes, the roads will still lead him to Rome.

What to see in Rome on your own?

Beautiful places and main attractions: photos with descriptions in Russian.

Apian Way (via Appia Anticia)

The ancient Apian Way is considered the first of the extensive network of Roman roads that spanned the vast empire. The construction of the road was carried out from 312 to 244 BC. The construction was carried out by order of Apius Claudius. It was directed to the southeast of the peninsula, first reaching Capua (now Apui), then it was extended to Brundisia. It connected the capital of the empire with the main suppliers of goods - Egypt, Greece, Asia.

The construction was carried out according to the standards of those times, the “Laws of the XII Tables”, adopted back in 450 BC. Even now, the quality and organization of construction, the understanding of the importance of good roads in the development of the state, amaze and amazes the imagination of the ancient Romans.

The width of the road is 4 meters. Large basalt blocks were carefully processed, laid on a layer of sand and pebbles. The middle part of the road was made more convex to allow rainwater to flow off it. Until now, some sections of the road are suitable for operation.

Located along the road a large number of monuments and ancient structures.

• Address: Rome, Italy.

Arch of Constantine

The triumphal Arch of Constantine was built at the beginning of the 4th century. The Romans at all times were distinguished by their great love for grandiose celebrations and the perpetuation of their triumphs. This arch is the only one that was built not to commemorate the victory over a foreign enemy, but in an internal war against its own citizens.

Located next to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill on the Via Triumphalis. Consisting of three different-sized arched openings, the arch is a majestic and impressive sight. There are four columns on each side. On their tops there are sculptures of captive Dacians. In the decoration of the arch, parts of bas-reliefs and decorations taken from buildings of the 1st-2nd centuries were used.

The dimensions of the arch are quite impressive even by modern standards: 21 x 25.7 x 7.4 meters. The dimensions of the middle arched span are 11.5 by 6.5 meters, the side ones are 7.4 by 3.4 meters.

At present, Konstantinova Arch is one of the few buildings of this type that have been preserved in good condition. It has become a model for later generations to follow in the construction of triumphal buildings.

• Address: Via Sacra, next to the Colosseum and Palatine, Rome, Italy.

Golden House of Nero (Domus Aurea)

The Golden House was built by order of Emperor Nero after a huge conflagration in Rome in 64 years. It happened so “timely” that it is still believed that Nero arranged it on purpose to clear a place in the city for his residence.

His dreams were realized by the court architects Sever and Celer, who in a fairly short time designed and built a huge palace and park ensemble. They laid out magnificent parks, vineyards, created artificial reservoirs. The interior decoration abounded with gilding, mosaics, beautiful frescoes.

The palace, decorated with a golden dome, was surrounded by buildings with porticos, located in the form of a square. An artificial lake was made in the center of the largest one, on which galleys could sail. With their participation, imitations of naval battles were arranged.

In front of the entrance to the palace complex, a giant statue of Nero in the form of the Sun was installed. It existed until the 30s of the XX century, when it was finally dismantled.

After the death of Nero, the palace was abandoned, the subsequent emperors dismantled some buildings, the reservoirs fell asleep. Trajan's forum, baths, the Colosseum and other structures were built on this site.

• Address: Via della Domus Aurea, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
• Opening hours: daily. The duration of the tour is 40 minutes. Groups - 20 people.
• Admission fee: 6.5 euros.

Arch of Titus (Arco di Tito)

The arch of Titus Vespasian was erected in honor of his victory over the Jews in Jerusalem at the end of the 1st century. It is located where the entrance gate to the Golden Palace of Nero once was.

Triumphal arches were erected by the Romans both in the eternal city itself and throughout the entire empire. The tradition of erecting arches dates back to the times of the republic.

It was built after the death of Titus by his successor Domitian. It is a powerful, but at the same time elegant structure with one large arched passage. It is decorated with columns in the corners, commemorative inscriptions about the merits of Titus are carved on the facade, and on the other side - about the restoration of the arch by Pope Pius VII.

Bas-reliefs are carved on the walls of the passage, depicting the triumphal procession of the emperor, in front of which are captured Jews with trophies. Among them, the golden menorah from the ruined Temple of Solomon stands out.

The arch, besides the triumphal one, is also a memorial one. Emperor Titus was honored with the unprecedented honor of being buried in his own triumphal arch.

• Address: Roman Forum (Foro Romano), next to the Colosseum, Rome, Italy.
• Opening hours: daily from 8.30 to 17.30.
• Admission fee: ticket to the Forum - 12 euros.

Vatican Library (Biblioteca Apostolica Vaticana)

The Vatican Library, one of the largest collections of human thought, is shrouded in a veil of mystery and mystery. The formation of its funds began in the 4th century. At the turn of XIII-XIV the first catalog was formed. The official creator of the library is considered to be Pope Nicholas V, who added his collection of ancient books to the existing manuscripts. During his reign, he significantly replenished the collection, sending envoys in search of the Constantinople Library, to the cities of Europe and Asia to collect ancient folios. Each pontiff contributed to the expansion of the library collection.

With the growth in the number of books, the premises for the library expanded, and new buildings were added. The collection was replenished from private collections, which were presented to the Vatican as a gift. The funds were systematized and divided into Greek, papal, Latin and others. It has its own secret archive, a laboratory for the restoration of manuscripts, a school for future librarians, and a separate fund with especially valuable historical documents.

Currently, several exhibition halls of various subjects are open in the Vatican Library. The interior decoration of the library halls, decorated by the greatest painters of Italy, strikes the imagination and surprise. It is allowed to work with the library fund only with special permission from one and a half hundred scientists with an impeccable reputation, from the point of view of the Vatican.

• Address: Viale Vaticano, Rome. Italy.
• Opening hours: Monday - Saturday - from 9.00 to 18.00, Sunday - from 9.00 to 12.30.
• Entrance fee: 16 euros, on Sunday until 12.30 - admission is free.

Castel Sant'Angelo

The Castle of the Holy Angel was built by order of Emperor Hadrian as a tomb for emperors and members of their families. According to the Roman tradition, they were built outside the city, beyond the Tiber. Therefore, at the same time, the construction of a bridge across the river was carried out.

In 137, Andrian's successor, Emperor Anthony Pius, completed the tomb and placed the ashes of Hadrian in it. Subsequently, many emperors of Rome were buried here. The last was Septimius Severus.

During the time of Emperor Aurelian, the mausoleum was surrounded by a powerful wall, turning it into a fortress. For many centuries, it served as protection for the Romans from barbarian raids.
According to legend, the castle got its modern name after a plague epidemic at the end of the 6th century. It was claimed that someone saw an angel on its roof, sheathing a sword, which symbolized the end of the plague.

Having become the residence of the Roman popes, the castle was repeatedly rebuilt, corner towers in the fortress wall. The pontiffs used the castle as their residence, decorated and collected works of art in it in a large number.

Now the National Museum operates here, which has collected a large number of rare exhibits. The castle itself is architectural and historical monument a must visit in Rome.

• Address: Lungotevere Castello. 50. Rome, Italy
• Opening hours: daily from 9.00 to 19.00
• Admission fee: 10.5 euros, concession ticket- 7.5 euros. The first Sunday of the month is free.

spanish stairs

The Spanish Steps are a beautiful and original decoration. eternal city. It climbs the hillside of Pincio from Piazza di Spagna to the Cathedral of Trinita dei Monti.

It symbolizes French influence in Italy. On the square was the Spanish embassy, ​​serving as a symbol for their compatriots. To smooth out the confrontation between these great states, it was decided to build a staircase, symbolically connecting the French church with the Spanish square.

Construction ended in 1725. There are 135 steps in the staircase. The lower span consists of three parts, separated by sides. Wide at the beginning, it gradually narrows, so that later, running up, spread semicircular spans to the observation deck. From above, it looks like a butterfly spreading its wings.

The observation deck offers a beautiful view of the square with a fountain and the prospect of the nearest streets.

• Address: Scalinata di Trinita dei Monti, 00187, Rome, Italy.

Capitoline Museums

The Museums of the Capitoline Hill are the earliest of the museums in the city of Rome. They are located in three buildings, in which the halls are reserved for various thematic expositions.

The general view of the square in the form of a trapezoid, the location of the buildings on it, the paving stones for covering were designed by the great master Michelangelo Buanarotti in the middle of the 16th century. His followers completed the construction.

For the first time, free access to collections of art treasures was opened by the pontiff Clement XII in 1743. In the 70s of the XIX century, the collection passed from private ownership to the property of Rome.

Masterpieces of world significance are exhibited here, which are widely known from textbooks, films, and literature:

1. a bronze statue of the "Roman she-wolf" - a symbol of the eternal city;
2. sculpture of a child with a thorn in his leg, dating back to the 1st century BC;
3. the original sculpture of Marcus Aurelius on horseback, made in the 2nd century BC;
4. sculpture of Apollo with a spear;
5. paintings by the greatest artists.

The halls of the museums are decorated with magnificent frescoes on biblical motifs and depicting the heroes of ancient Roman myths.

• Address: Piazza del Campidoglio, 1, Rome, Italy.
• Opening hours: daily, 9.30 - 19.30, January 1 and May 1 - day off.
• Entry fee: 15 euros.

Capitol Hill (Monte Capitolino)

Capitol Hill is one of the seven hills on which the Eternal City is located. The history of the origin of the name "Capitol" is covered with centuries-old legends. According to some legends, in ancient Rome there was a temple dedicated to Capitoline Jupiter. Other legends claim that during the construction of a pagan temple, the head (caput) of a person was found, hence the name Capitol.

Also on the hill was the ancient Roman Senate, the temples of the goddesses Juno Moneta and Minerva. According to ancient sources, metal money was first printed in the temple of Juno, and the first mint was organized. In honor of this goddess, metal money began to be called coins.

Not far from the church is the oldest Mamertinskaya prison, in which, according to legend, were in their last hours Saints Paul and Peter.

At the foot of the stairs, the remains of ancient Roman high-rise buildings quietly sheltered. These are perhaps the most valuable sights that give an opportunity to learn how ordinary Romans lived in those distant times.

• Address: Piazza del Campidoglio, Rome, Italy.

Colosseum

Colosseum - gigantic and most famous architectural monument antiquity in Rome. It has long become the personification of the Eternal City. The name comes from the Latin "Colosseus" - it means gigantic, colossal.

Its construction was started by the successor of Emperor Nero Flavius ​​Vespasian. For the construction of the amphitheater, the Golden Palace of the hated Nero was destroyed and artificial lakes were filled up so that nothing would remind of the tyrant. Construction was completed in three years in 78. The circus was built by 100,000 Jewish slaves brought in after the conquest of Jerusalem.

The Colosseum is still an impressive sight in our time, and in the 1st century it was considered a wonder of the world. It used technologies unique for that period. There was a prototype of an elevator and a hydraulic lift.

Until the beginning of the 5th century, gladiator fights were held in the arena. With the strengthening of Christianity, Emperor Honorius Augustus banned them, but fights with animals continued for a long time.

The outer northern wall was destroyed in the middle of the XIV century by a strong earthquake. Further destruction was carried out by local residents, dismantling the stone for the construction of new houses and temples.

• Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184, Rome, Italy.
• Opening hours: April - September - from 9.00 to 19.00, October - March - from 9.00 to 16.00.
• Entry fee: 12 euros. Valid for 24 hours, the price includes a visit to the Forum and the Palatine.

Mausoleum of Augustus

The Mausoleum of Augustus is a monumental building in the tradition of Etruscan burials. Erected in 28 BC after the conquest of Alexandria and the victory over Cleopatra. In terms of significance and size, it is not inferior to the mausoleum of Hadrian, located on the opposite bank of the Tiber and now called the Castel Sant'Angelo.

The ashes of several emperors from the Julio-Claudian family and their closest relatives rested in the tomb. The last burial was made in 98.

The structure looks like several concentric circles connected by bridges. The gaps between the walls are filled with earth and planted with plants. In the center stood a bronze figure of Emperor Augustus. A long corridor with a semicircular vault leads to the inner chamber of the tomb.

During the invasion of the barbarians in the 5th century, the mausoleum was plundered, the urns with ashes were stolen. The travertine cladding was gradually removed by local residents, the building lost its original appearance. For many centuries, he repeatedly changed owners and underwent years of oblivion. Restoration work is currently planned. The interiors are closed to tourists.

• Address: Piazza Augusto Imperatore, Campus Martius district, Rome, Italy

Museum "Altar of Peace" (Ara Pacis)

The Museum "Altar of Peace" is a museum of one exhibit. The altar was built by the Romans in honor of the emperor Augustus after his conquest of Spain and Gaul in 9 BC.

The altar itself for sacrifices, located on a raised platform with steps, is surrounded by walls with two exits. The inner side of the walls is decorated with garlands, friezes and pilasters.

But the uniqueness of this exhibit is given by the bas-reliefs on the outer sides of the walls of the altar. They are full of symbolism and personification. There is an image of Augustus and members of his family. There is a symbolic image of a united and prosperous Italy, expressing the hopes of the Romans for peace and prosperity.

During the invasion of the barbarians, the "Altar of Peace" was damaged, and later destroyed during a severe flood. In the middle of the 16th century, the first fragments of the altar were found. Finally collected and put it together only in the 30s of the last century. To ensure its safety, the first building of the museum of one exhibit was built. In 2006 it was rebuilt due to dilapidation.

Currently, in addition to the demonstration of the main exhibit, various exhibitions and lectures are regularly held here.

• Address: Via Muzio Clementi, 9, 00193, Rome, Italy.
• Opening hours: from 9.00 to 19.00, day off - Monday.
• Admission fee: 10.5 euros, reduced ticket - 8.5 euros.

Museum complex of the Vatican (Musei Vaticani)

The Vatican Museum Complex consists of several expositions located in various buildings on its territory. All the buildings of the Vatican are in themselves a work of art and a historical landmark.

Several museums and galleries are open to the public. For more than five centuries, masterpieces and archaeological artifacts have been collected from all over Italy and Europe. Almost all the pontiffs contributed to the formation of the collection.

The Vatican is located on a hill where there was an ancient Roman pagan temple and a circus. On the site where the Apostle Peter was executed, the largest Catholic Cathedral of St. Peter was built. Pope Julius II, who bought the sculpture "Laocoön and his sons", is considered the founder of the museum funds. His successors generously replenished the collection, erected palaces and decorated them with the help of the best craftsmen. The complex consists of 13 museums and several galleries. Access for public viewing of the masterpieces stored here was opened at the end of the 18th century during the reign of the pontiffs Clement XIV and Pius VI.

The statue of Apollo Belvedere, the statues of Julius Caesar and Octavian Augustus, the composition of the god Nile, samples of Roman mosaics are kept here. Raphael's Stanzas, Pinakothek, exhibits of Egyptian and Etruscan civilization and many other masterpieces of world civilization are known all over the world.

Excursion routes around the Vatican stretch for 7 kilometers and are designed for a duration of 1 to 5 hours. All of them end in the Sistine Chapel, famous for its paintings "The Creation of Adam" and "The Last Judgment". More than 5 million tourists visit the Vatican Museums every year.

• Address: Viale Vaticano.
• Opening hours: Monday - Saturday, last Sunday of each month from 9.00 to 18.00; day off is Sunday.
• Entrance fee: 16 euros, preferential - 8 euros. The last Sunday of every month is free.

National Roman Museum (Museo Nazionale Romano)

The National Roman Museum includes five different exhibition rooms with exhibits from various periods of Roman history.

Created in 1889. The cultural values ​​presented here belong to the period of antiquity. The collection is based on the private collection of Ludovisi. Until 1990, all expositions were located in the Baths of Diocletian. At that time, the buildings of the Palazzo Massimo, the Palazzo Altemps, the Balbi crypt, and the Palatino Museum were transferred to the museum.

Baths of Diocletian - a former ancient Roman building at the turn of the III - IV centuries. It retains traces of the reconstruction carried out by Michelangelo in the middle of the 16th century. Sculptures, inscriptions, artifacts that tell about the emergence and formation of Rome are stored here.

Palazzo Massimo is the youngest building in the museum. Mosaics, frescoes, numismatic items, sculptures of the ancient period are exhibited here.

Archaeological finds are collected in the Crypt of Balbi. The Palazzo Altemps contains exhibits from the personal collections of Cardinals Ludovisi and Altemps, Prince Mattei. They consist of sculptures, rarities from Egypt.

• Tickets to the museum complex are valid for 3 days from the date of purchase.
• Address: Piazza dei Cinquecento.
• Opening hours: Tuesday - Sunday - from 9.00 to 19.30; Closed Monday, December 25th.
• Entry fee: 8 euros.

Palatine Hill (Monte Palatino)

Palatine Hill in Rome symbolizes the origins of civilization and power. According to legend, the founders of the city of Remus and Romulus nursed here. According to excavations, the hill was inhabited by people as early as the 13th century BC. According to legend, the name came from the name of the goddess Pales, the patroness of livestock. Before the mass settlement, it served as a pasture for livestock.

Over time, it began to be populated by wealthy citizens, and then the emperors began to build their palaces. Emperor Augustus was the first to build his palace here. A house was erected nearby for his wife Livia. Only foundations and small fragments of walls have survived from them to this day. In Livia's house on some of them you can still see the remains of beautiful murals.

From the former splendor of the palace of Emperor Tiberius, only fragments of neat stonework remained. The legendary Caligula built himself a huge palace, but only impressive ruins remained of him. During the reign of the emperor Domitian, the Flavian Palace and a large rectangular stadium were built.

The last of the emperors who built palaces for themselves on the hill was Septimius Severus. In our time, only a gallery with arches remained from it, most of the building is still hidden underground.
Artifacts found during excavations on the Palatine Hill are exhibited here in the Antiquarium Museum, in the stadium. Active excavations have been carried out since the 18th century.

• Address: 00186, Rome. Italy.
• Opening hours: daily from 8.30 to 19.00.
• The cost of visiting: full - 12 euros, preferential - 7.5 euros. Free on the first Sunday of every month.

Pantheon

The Pantheon in Rome is considered the oldest architectural monument preserved in such good condition. The name in translation from ancient Roman means "Temple of all gods".

The first pantheon on this site was built at the end of the 1st century by Marcus Agrippa, the son-in-law of Emperor Augustus, in honor of the victory at Actium. It was destroyed after the fires. Only the pediment has survived with traces of an inscription on it. Under the reign of Domitian, it was rebuilt along with other damaged temples.

The Pantheon that has come down to our time was built under the emperor Hadrian at the beginning of the 2nd century. It is believed that the architect was Apollodorus of Damascus, who built the Baths of Trajan, the Arc de Triomphe of Trajan and the port in Ostia.

It has the shape of a cylinder covered with a dome. If you visually extend the dome to a circle, it will fit exactly into the dimensions of the cylinder. The temple was built of brick and concrete, lined with marble. Its design is unique, it has no windows, the lighting comes only from the hole in the dome. The dome itself, to reduce its weight and reduce the load on the walls, is made of various thicknesses, decreasing from the base to the center.

A surviving pediment from Agrippa's first Pantheon adorns the façade, and is supported by a portico of 16 granite columns. Once it was decorated with bronze sculptures, which during the construction of St. Peter's Cathedral were removed and sent for alteration.

Inside the Pantheon, seven niches were arranged, in which there were statues of the main Roman gods. After it was consecrated into a Catholic church, they were replaced with sculptures of biblical saints.

Since the Renaissance period, great people of Rome have been buried here. The Pantheon did not stop functioning during the entire period of its existence, perhaps that is why it has survived to our time in such good condition.

• Address: Piazza della Rotonda.
• Opening hours: daily from 9.00 to 19.30, Sunday - from 9.00 to 18.00.
• Admission fee: free.

Navona Square (Piazza Navona)

Navona Square was formed on the site of an ancient circus built under Emperor Titus Flavius. Over time, the word "agon", meaning competition, was transformed into Navon. With the decline of the Roman Empire, the stadium was no longer used for its intended purpose, it was gradually destroyed. In place of its walls, buildings began to be erected, surrounding the free space of the arena.

Modern look The square arose at the end of the 15th century, when the Pamphili family acquired three buildings on it. A representative of this wealthy family, having become Pope Innocent X, rebuilds them into a luxurious mansion and gives it to his daughter-in-law, Olympia Pamphili. The architect Girolamo Rainaldi, the master of the Baroque style, designed and supervised the construction, maestro Francesco Borromini was engaged in the interior decoration.

Its fountains have become a true decoration and a special attraction of Piazza Navon. The largest of them is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, located in the middle of the square, dedicated to the rivers Nile, Danube, Ganges and La Plata. In the center of the fountain rises a stele decorated with hieroglyphs. The fountain is decorated with sculptures symbolizing these great rivers.

Along the edges of the square are the Fountain of Neptune and the Fountain of the Moor. It has become a favorite place for walks and recreation of the Romans themselves and numerous tourists.

• Address: Piazza Navona, 00186 Rome.

St. Peter's Square (Piazza San Piedro)

The square in front of St. Peter's Cathedral was created according to the project and under the guidance of the baroque master Lorenzo Bernini in the middle of the 17th century. He gave it the original shape of a key, which symbolizes the veneration of St. Peter as the keeper of the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.

Consists of two squares, passing into each other. The first, starting from the steps of the Cathedral, has the shape of a trapezoid surrounded by galleries. Further, through a slight narrowing, it passes into a round square. On the sides of its arcs are colonnades with four rows of columns.

An Egyptian granite obelisk rises in the center. He serves as a gnomon in the sundial marked on the square. Symmetrically on both sides of the obelisk are fountains made by the architects Bernini and Maderno.

On the outer side of the colonnade is the border of the Vatican. From the Basilica to the center of Rome, the street of Reconciliation is laid. Believers gather on the square during the days of general prayers to receive the blessing of the Pope.

• Address: Piazza San Piedro, 00186 Roma.

Piazza del Popolo

Piazza del Popolo, or as it is also called the People's, is a large and beautiful square. Its modern ensemble was formed in the first half of the 19th century. Architect Giuseppe Valadier, rebuilt and improved it for more than 10 years.

Three streets fan out from it in a southerly direction. From the north, the former Flaminian Way approaches it, along which pilgrims came to Rome from the north. The Flaminian Gate was erected on this site.

A magnificent Egyptian stele adorns the center of the square. It is believed that its age is 3400 years. In antiquity, it adorned the Great Circus, where it was found during excavations and transported to the square. Fountains in the form of lions were built around the obelisk. At its opposite ends are the Fountain of Neptune and the Goddess of Rome. They give the area an unforgettable flavor and a cozy atmosphere.

Another feature of the square was the baroque churches - the twins of Santa Maria Montesanto and Santa Maria dei Miracoli. Created in the second half of the 17th century under Pope Alexander VII. They are located in the southern part and delimit the streets going south from here.

The area is a pedestrian zone. It hosts fairs and concerts. There are various shops, cafes and restaurants around.

• Address: Piazza del Popolo, Rome.

Roman Forum (Foro Romano)

The forum was the focus of the commercial and social life of ancient Rome. It was formed in a depression between the Palatine and Capitol Hills, a swampy, unsuitable area for life.

From the 7th century BC. work began on the construction of drainage channels, the Great Cloaca was built, thanks to which it became possible to build structures on this territory. Initially, trading places were located here, adjacent to temples and administrative buildings, sentences were passed and news was announced.

During the time of the Roman Republic, the Forum was rebuilt, roads were laid to other urban areas, temples and curia were built. The temple of Saturn housed the treasury of the city, and the temple of the goddess Juno Moneta produced metal money. The forum has become an administrative and political center.

The reign of Emperor Augustus was marked by the construction of the temple of Julius Caesar, the erection of monuments. The most ancient buildings of the Forum, the Golden Mile and the "navel of the earth" have become symbols of the center of the empire.

After the fall of Rome from the barbarian invasion, the Forum was abandoned for a long time. Then, Christian churches began to be erected on the ruins of ancient buildings.

Large-scale excavations at the site of the Forum have been carried out since the 19th century. Mixing in one place the evidence of different eras gives the key to understanding the name of Rome - the Eternal City.

• Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma.
• Opening hours: from 8.30 to 19.00 depending on the season.
• The cost of visiting: full - 12 euros, preferential - 7.5 euros. The first Sunday of the month is free.

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the largest and most beautiful, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is a papal cathedral where he annually holds festive services.

It began to be erected in the middle of the 4th century under Pope Liberius, at the expense of a wealthy citizen. According to legend, the Pope and the city dweller simultaneously dreamed of the Blessed Virgin, who commanded to build a temple where the snow would fall. Therefore, the church is sometimes called "God's mother in the snow."

During the years of its existence, the temple was repeatedly subjected to changes. Each pontiff made some changes. But this did not damage the integrity of the image of the cathedral. Several architectural styles are organically intertwined in its external appearance, which gives it an indescribable flavor and originality.

The decoration preserved early paintings and mosaics dating back to the 5th century. At the main eastern entrance, a beautiful mosaic of the first half of the 14th century has been preserved. In the same century, a bell tower was added. The portico itself with a loggia was added in the 40s of the 18th century. The basilica has three naves separated by columns. Three chapels are attached to it: Sistine, Paolina and Sforza.

The decoration of the cathedral is striking in its beauty and richness. The abundance of gilding, frescoes, sculptures and mosaics is amazing. In the lower tier of the basilica there is a museum, which stores exhibits related to it. On the square in front of the entrance there is a stele with the figure of the Virgin Mary, erected in honor of the deliverance from the plague in 1614.

• Address: Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore, 42, Rome
• Opening hours: daily from 7.00 to 19.00.

Sistine Chapel (Capella Sistina)

The Sistine Chapel is an unremarkable building, built next to the resplendent St. Peter's Basilica. It looks more like a fortress than a temple building. However, it was built by Pope Sixtus IV to protect the inhabitants of the Vatican. The first divine service and consecration of the chapel was held in 1512 on the day of the Ascension of Our Lady, the chapel was given the name Sistine.

The chapel was intended for holding meetings of the clergy; since 1492, conclaves began to be held in it, at which a new Pope was elected. It is from here that the smoke from the chimney signals to believers around the world about the election of a new Pontiff.

The Chapel is most famous for its murals. It was here that the great Michelangelo painted the vault with beautiful frescoes of The Creation of Adam and others on biblical themes. A little later, he made a fresco on the altar wall "The Last Judgment".

Other eminent masters also took part in the design of the chapel: Perugino, Botticelli, Rosselli, Ghirlandaio. Their works leave an indelible impression with their naturalness and realism. All tours of the Vatican end here.

• Address: Viale Vaticano, 00120, Citta del Vaticano, Sistine Chapel.
• Opening hours: from 9.00 to 18.00
• Entry fee: 16 euros.

Basilica di San Pietro

St. Peter's Basilica is the heart and center of spirituality for Catholics around the world. For other people, it is a temple of the soaring creative skill of great artists. The largest Catholic church has contained a huge number of the greatest works of art and is itself architectural masterpiece. This is the most famous and recognizable place in Rome.

The modern building of the cathedral was built on the site of the circus of Nero. In 67 AD on it the apostle Peter was executed and buried by his followers near the circus. His grave became a place of pilgrimage for the first Christians. During the reign of Emperor Constantine, who converted to Christianity, the first temple was erected over the tomb of St. Peter. For more than a thousand years of history, it has completely dilapidated.

The construction of a new temple on the site of the collapsing one was started by Pope Julius II, inviting the architect Bramante. Many prominent architects took part in the construction, but the main project was created by Michelangelo. After his death, the cathedral was completed according to his drawings by Domenico Fontana and Giacomo della Porta.

Over time, the original form of the plan in the form of a Greek equilateral cross was changed to an oblong form of a Roman cross. They built up one of the branches of the cross with a three-nave extension and designed a modern facade.

The interior of the temple is rich and beautiful. The vaults of the dome are covered with gilding and paintings. Particular attention is drawn to the sculpture of the young Michelangelo "Pieta", filled with piercing sorrow and grief. Tourists are sure to come up to the sculpture of St. Peter to touch his foot and partake of his holiness.

Under the main altar is the tomb of the Apostle Peter, to which a glazed window has been cut through in the floor. The temple contains the tombs of several pontiffs, a large number of valuable Christian relics.

The architectural image of the cathedral became a role model for the creation of many religious buildings of subsequent years in all parts of the world.

• Address: Piazza San Pietro.
• Opening hours: from April 1 to September 30 - from 07.00 to 19.00; from October 1 to March 31 - from 7.00 to 18.30.
• Admission fee: domes - 8 euros, necropolis under the cathedral - 13 euros. Entrance to the cathedral is free.

Stanzas of Raphael (Stanze di Raffaello)

Raphael's Stanzas are four small rooms in the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican. Stanze means room. Having become Pope Julius II invited the young Raphael to paint his private premises. The rooms are divided thematically, but with obligatory biblical subjects.

The first room decorated by the artist, in which the Pontifex held various meetings, is called the Stanza della Senyatura. Segnatura is translated as signature, seal. The plots of the paintings are dedicated to the spirituality of Homo sapiens. Present here: justice with a blindfold, scales and a sword. Poetry is represented by the fresco "Parnassus", philosophy - "The School of Athens", theology - "Dispute", virtue - "Virtue and Law".

The next room, designed by Raphael, was intended for private audiences with officials, influential and famous people. Accordingly, the theme of the murals was chosen - the sending down of divine beneficence and the protection of faith and the church.

The station "Fire in Borgo" was the last room painted personally by Raphael. The frescoes in it are based on historical subjects, with the participation of the pontiffs and the Catholic Church. Stanza "Konstantina" was already painted by pupils of the great maestro, using his sketches. This hall was used for formal grand receptions. The images in it are devoted to the theme of the struggle of the first Christians with paganism. The stages of the Christian formation of Constantine are told.

According to tourists, Raffael's Stanzas leave an indelible impression on visiting the Vatican Museums.

• Address: Viale Vaticano, Rome.
• Opening hours: Monday - Friday - from 8.45 to 16.45, Saturday - from 8.45 to 13.45.
• Entrance fee: 16 euros, preferential - 8 euros.

The Baths of Caracalla

The Baths of Caracala is a gigantic structure comparable in size and wall thickness to an average defensive fortress. Looking at these ruins, it's hard to imagine that they were just public baths. In Rome, great attention was paid to hygiene. But baths served not only the utilitarian goals of cleanliness, but were the focus of social life.

The Baths of Caracal were built in 217 on a gigantic area between the hills of Caelius and Avetinos. Up to 1600 guests could be accommodated at the same time. By this time, more than 80 public baths were already functioning in Rome. But these baths surpassed everything available and for several centuries became the most popular among the Romans.

During the erection of walls, gravel was mixed with lime and sand and poured with concrete. Then faced with marble tiles. Thanks to this technology, the building looked easy, and the walls turned out so strong that they withstood one and a half thousand years.

Two libraries, a gymnasium, and an amphitheater were arranged in the baths. In the garden on the territory of the baths there were places for visitors to relax. In the main building there were three bathing halls - with a cold pool, a warm one and a hot one.

All utility rooms were under the floors. Water was supplied from aqueducts and accumulated in several cisterns. Hot air and water were supplied through ceramic pipes laid under the floors.

The baths were magnificently decorated with mosaics, sculptures, fountains. A statue of Apollo Belvedere was found here during excavations.
Currently, concerts are held on the territory of the former baths, using the ruin as scenery.

• Address: Viale delle Terme di Caracalla.
• Opening hours: daily from 9.00 to 19.00, except December 25 and January 1.
• Entry fee: 8 euros.

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain can be considered a relatively young landmark of Rome. But it also has an ancient backstory. According to legend, during the reign of Emperor Augustus, the girl helped to find a new source to supply the city with water. The aqueduct from this source was called Aqua Virgo, which translates as "Water of the Virgin". It ended in the area of ​​the Pantheon and, like all aqueducts, traditionally with a fountain.

The modern Trevi Fountain was built on the initiative of the Pontiff Clement XII, who decided to ennoble the central square of the city. In a competition of 16 architects, the winner was Nicolo Salvi. In his fountain projects, he relied on the ideas and developments of Lorenzo Bernini.

The architect, in order to create a single composition with the fountain, made changes to the facade of the Poli Palace. The powerful figure of the sea god Poseidon rises in the center. With an imperious gesture of his right hand, he controls the sea elements. They are symbolized by sea horses: sometimes rearing and powerful, like a horse on the right, sometimes quiet and obedient, like a right horse. Water cascades create the illusion of surf.

The sculptures are made so realistic that it seems now they will rush past, spraying. This favorite place for tourists walking. It is believed that if you throw a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain, you will definitely come back here again.

• Address: Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma

Vittoriano

Vittoriano - a monument in honor of King Victor Emmanuel II, who managed to unite Italy in united country. It is the main decoration of Venice Square, attracting a large number of tourists here.

The monumental complex was built for almost 40 years according to the project of the architect Giuseppe Sacconi. It mixed classical and ancient Roman style. Construction was completed already in 1935, adding the tomb of the Unknown Soldier to the complex. Since then, it has also had the second name "Altar of the Fatherland".

The center of the composition is an equestrian sculpture of the king, made in bronze. Behind him is a colonnade crowned with an architrave. On both sides, the galleries end with porticos with sculptures of the goddess Nike. Above the architrave are 16 statues dedicated to the regions of Italy. Fountains are also full of symbolism. They represent the seas washing the country.

There are museums and an art gallery in the building of the complex, which hosts temporary exhibitions.

Often, city residents express dissatisfaction with pretentiousness and congestion with elements of the "Altar of the Fatherland". But, maybe it is this unusual ensemble that gathers guests of the city on Venice Square.

• Address: Piazza Venezia, 00186 Roma
• Opening hours: Monday - Thursday - from 9.30 to 19.30, Friday - Saturday - 9.30 - 22.00, Sunday - 09.30 - 20.30.
• Admission fee: Vittoriano museums - free of charge, temporary exhibitions - up to 15 euros, elevator to the observation deck - 7 euros.

Trajan's Forum

Trajan's Forum was built in 106 to commemorate the emperor's victory over Dacia. It turned out to be the largest and last built in a series of similar structures. Forums in ancient times were a place of brisk trade and meetings of townspeople.

The project of the forum and the management of the construction were carried out by the architect Apolodor of Damascus. Extensive earthworks were carried out to prepare the construction site. Carrying out such a large construction project required large financial costs and laid a heavy burden on the country's budget.

The forum was rectangular in shape, surrounded by a one-story building with semicircular niches for vendors. The main entrance was decorated with a portico with a chariot above the atik. On the opposite side of the forum were two libraries, the Ulpia Basilica, which was used as an administrative building. A little later, a column of Troyan was installed nearby.

It is notable for the fact that it has a spiral staircase through which you can climb to the top and view the surrounding landscapes from the platform. Bas-reliefs depicting the victories of the divine Trajan are painted on the column in a spiral.

Of all the past splendor of the complex, the column and the five-story market, which hosts exhibitions of the Museum Dei Fori Imperiale, are in the best condition.

• Address: Via dei Fori Imperiala, Roma, Italia.
• Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday - from 09.00 to 19.00, day off - Monday, January 1, May 1, December 25.
• Admission fee: 15.5 euros, preferential - 9.5 euros.

Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano

San Giovanni in Laterano is the most important basilica in the ecclesiastical world. Her primacy is announced by a bas-relief on the entablature, that she is the mother and head of all cities and the world.

Here is the papal altar. It preserves the most valuable shrines for Christians. In reliquaries made in the form of bust figures, the heads of St. Paul and St. Peter. Another of the sacred things especially revered by Christians is the “Holy Staircase”. It is believed that Christ used it to ascend into the palace hall to Pilate for an unjust trial.

In plan, the temple was built in the form of a Roman cross. It was built on the site of an early Christian basilica from the 4th century. The modern building was built in 1735 under the direction of the famous architect Bramini. It has a five-nave structure.

The protruding facade with columns, loggias, a triangular pediment and a balustrade is decorated with figures of biblical saints. The interior decoration is rich, beautiful and harmonious.
In 1929, the Lateran Agreement on the delimitation of powers between the Vatican and Italy was concluded here.

• Address: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 4, Roma, Italia.
• Opening hours: Monday - Friday - from 10.00 to 17.00, Saturday from 10.00 to 15.00.

Basilica of San Paolo fuori le Mura

St. Paul's Cathedral is located in the south of Rome. It is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is a papal basilica.

St. Paul was executed at the end of the 1st century by order of Nero, far from the city. He was buried by admirers near the Aurelian wall. A basilica was built on the burial site of St. Paul by Emperor Constantine I in the 4th century. Due to the limited land area, it turned out to be smaller than the Cathedral of St. Peter.

Over the long years of its existence, the temple has been repeatedly rebuilt, improved, and changed. In 1823, after a fire, it turned into ruins. Miraculously, a mosaic dating back to the 5th century survived in the altar. It took more than 30 years to restore.

After excavations in the basilica, she discovered a sarcophagus with the remains of a man who lived at the turn of the 1st-2nd centuries. The Roman Church recognized that they belonged to St. Pavel.

The facade of the cathedral is decorated with a colonnade with a pediment, above which are the figures of the apostles and Jesus. On the platform in front of the basilica there is a sculpture of the Apostle Paul.

The interior decoration of the five halls of the basilica, separated by marble columns, is rich and beautiful. Its peculiarity is the medallions located inside around the halls, with portraits of all the pontiffs. Few remained free. According to the legends, if all the medallions are full, the world will end.

The relics of the Apostle Paul, a piece of the Cross, a piece of the staff of St. Paul and other relics.

• Address: Piazzale San Paolo, 1, Roma, Italia.
• Opening hours: from 7.30 to 18.30
• Entrance fee: 4 euros, preferential - 2 euros.

Church of Il Gesu (La Chiesa del Santissimo Nome di Gesu)

The Church of the Holy Name of Jesus was built in the second half of the 16th century as a cathedral church for the Jesuit order. The project was developed by the architect Giacomo del Porta. Here is the burial place of its founder, Ignatius Loyola.

It became the standard for the construction of Jesuit temples in Europe and Latin America. The architectural style is transitional between Renaissance and Baroque.

The appearance of the temple is laconic, without frills in decoration. Rectangular pilasters and round columns support the cornice. Above the portal is a medallion with the coat of arms of the order. A triangular pediment with a sculpture of St. Paul.

The greatest impression in the interior decoration is made by the painting of the vault of the central nave. The figures are depicted so vividly and dynamically that it seems as if they even cast a shadow on the ceiling.

There are several chapels dedicated to various holy martyrs. The interior is characterized by a large amount of gilding, paintings, and sculptures.

At the temple there is a museum with rare exhibits related to the Jesuit order.

• Address: Via degli Astalli, 16, 00186 Roma, Italia.
• Opening hours: from 7.00 to 19.45, break from 12.30 to 16.00.

Catacombs of Rome

The catacombs of Rome are artificial underground structures. The word catacombus means deepening. Usually stone was mined in the catacombs for construction. According to scientists, the Roman catacombs are not suitable for these purposes - the corridors are too narrow.

Several catacombs have been discovered in Rome and its environs. Most are located along the Appian Way, where rich Romans and nobles used to build tombs. According to tradition, burials in the city itself were prohibited.

The first burials of pagans date back to the 1st century BC, when the tradition of cremation began to disappear. On private land plots underground tombs and crypts for family members were arranged along the roads. Subsequently, fellow believers began to be admitted.

Representatives of Christians, Jews, pagans and Gnostics made their burials in the catacombs. The graves are niches in the walls, which were then covered with a slab and walled up. Rectangular niches were called loculi or shtetls. Arch-shaped recess - arcosolium.

In the catacombs there were many burial places of the first Christians who died for their faith. Here were the tombs of the first popes. A large number of murals, mosaics, inscriptions and objects that accompanied the burial ritual have been preserved.

A notable fact is the similarity of funerary symbols on early Christian and Jewish epitaphs. Memorial liturgies were held at the graves of the martyrs, and pilgrimages were made.

Gradually, the relics of the first Christian martyrs were taken out of the catacombs and placed in various basilicas in the city. By the end of the 9th century, pilgrims' interest in the catacombs faded. For almost six centuries, no one remembered them.

From the 16th century to the present, excavations and research have been carried out in them. Access is not allowed to all catacombs and only as part of organized tours.

Medici Villa (Villa Medici Roma)

The history of the Villa Medici in Rome goes back centuries. Its first owner was the Roman commander Lucio Lucullus, who lived at the turn of the II-I centuries BC. In the 60s of the same century, he built a house here and laid out a huge magnificent garden around. Lucullus loved to arrange big receptions and grandiose feasts, after which the words "Lukul's feast" became a household expression.

For many centuries, the villa with the adjacent plot passed from hand to hand, was ruined and restored again. It passed into the possession of the Medici family in 1576. Inviting the architect Bartolomeo Ammannati, Cardinal Ferdinando Medici restored the former splendor of the villa and the surrounding gardens.

He planned to arrange here a kind of museum for his rich collections. The building was decorated with a large number of bas-reliefs, the interiors were painted with frescoes. The garden was restored on the model of the botanical garden, a large number of antique statues were installed.

IN early XIX century Napoleon bought this estate for the French Art Academy in Rome. It hosted several art workshops. And now scholarship holders of various creative professions are being trained here.

• Address: Vuale Trinita dei Monti, 1, Roma.
• Opening hours: from 10.00 to 19.00, day off - Monday.
• Entry fee: 12 euros.

Borghese Gallery

Villa Borghese was built in the first quarter of the 17th century by Cardinal Scipione Borghese on Pincio Hill. He was the nephew of the pope and had almost unlimited access to church finances and a passion for collecting. Vacation home immediately intended for existing and future art objects.

The villa was built by the architects Ponzio and Byzanzio. The villa acquired its modern look in the style of classicism at the end of the 18th century. The interiors are decorated with frescoes, mosaics, gilded stucco, the floors are decorated with mosaics of multi-colored marble. Around the area of ​​80 hectares there is a beautiful park.

The cardinal intensively replenished his collection, buying unique paintings and sculptures from the owners. Honest methods were not always used in this case. Often, artists were bought up for a pittance of paintings that customers refused.

Currently, the gallery's collection includes several hundred priceless exhibits. On the ground floor there is an exposition of sculpture. Exhibits from antiquity to the 18th century are presented. There are several works by Giovanni Barnini, who was patronized by Scipio Borghese. Including his bust.

The second floor is reserved for the exhibition works of art. Paintings by the greatest masters of the 15th-18th centuries are exhibited: Caravaggio, Raphael, Ghirlandaio, Coreggio and many others.

• Address: Piazza Scipione Borghese, 5, 00197 Roma
• Opening hours: from 8.30 to 19.00, day off - Monday.
• Entry fee: 20 euros.

San Pietro in Vincoli

The Cathedral of St. Peter in chains is not the most famous place for excursions among tourists. But connoisseurs of Michelangelo's work and lovers of history will find something to admire here.

For believers, this basilica serves as a place of pilgrimage. The chains with which St. Peter in Jerusalem and in Rome. There is a legend that the wife of Emperor Valentine Eudoxia received part of the Jerusalem chains from her mother as a gift. To store them, the imperial couple built a basilica in the middle of the 5th century.

Excavations carried out in the 20th century established that rich houses stood on the site of the basilica in ancient times. Over the long years of its existence, the temple was rebuilt many times, almost nothing remained of its original appearance. Only two dozen marble columns that separate the naves.

Sacred chains are kept under the altar in a transparent glass casket. Believers believe that they are able to heal the sick.

The basilica is also famous for the wonderful work of the genius Michelangelo - the sculptural group "Moses". There are two more of his works, installed near the papal tomb - sculptures "Leah" and "Rachel".

Not every eminent museum can boast of such valuable exhibits.

• Address: Piazza di San Pietro in Vincoli, 4/a, 00184 Roma, Italy.
• Opening hours: from 8.00 to 12.30 and from 15.30 to 18.30.

Having been in Rome, it is difficult to remain indifferent to these beauties and the greatest creations of the ancient masters. The Eternal City - that's how it was, that's how it will remain forever!

Rome is one of the largest and oldest cities in the world. Sometimes Rome is called not only the capital of Italy, but of the whole world. The city is rich beautiful architecture, mass interesting places and majestic sights. You should visit Rome more than once, because to see everything tourist places the capital of Italy in one trip is unlikely to succeed. Below is a list of the most famous attractions in Rome which are a must see.

The Colosseum is one of the main attractions of ancient Rome. The building is located in Piazza del Colosseo. Construction was carried out in the period from 72 to 80 years. Its height is 50 meters. At the time of its functioning, it accommodated more than 50,000 people. Several times the Colosseum was destroyed. The reason for this was 2 earthquakes and a major fire, resulting in the collapse of the outer and southern walls. It was after these events that the Colosseum acquired its modern dilapidated appearance, attracting all visitors to Rome today.

2. Capitol Hill

One of the seven hills on which Ancient Rome was founded. Today, Capitol Hill can be safely called a museum under open sky. On the territory of the Capitol, tourists are waiting for ancient statues, viewing platforms, several palaces and a beautiful square designed by Michelangelo. Here you can visit the Capitoline Museum. This is a whole complex where ancient sculptures, figurines, paintings and other works of art are presented.

On the hill is the Palace of the Senators, also built according to the project of Michelangelo. Both sides of the palace offer magnificent views of the Forum. Walking along Capitol Hill can take all day, and during this period you can learn a lot of new and interesting things.

3. Plaza of Spain

Piazza di Spagna is located in the center of Rome, in the Campo Marzio area. She got her name because of the Spanish embassy located on it. The area is famous for several attractions. Its northern side is famous Spanish stairs, which has 138 steps and the Catholic Church of Trinita dei Monti, built in 1585. On the south side is the Palace of Spain, the construction of which dates back to 1620. It is noteworthy that the Plaza de España is the heart of the Roman fashion quarter. From here begins Via dei Condotti, where you can visit the most prestigious and fashionable shops in Rome.

4. Pantheon in Rome

The Pantheon is one of the most popular attractions in Rome, which every traveler also wants to see. This is the most majestic ancient domed building that has survived to this day. The Pantheon was built in 126 AD. by order of Emperor Hadrian. The building is a prominent representative of ancient Roman architecture.

The Pantheon in Rome has a rich interior decoration. The main feature of the structure is a hole in the roof through which sunlight enters the building. At noon, a beautiful light column is formed, which every perfectionist will appreciate. Many famous Italian figures are buried in the Pantheon: Raphael, Victor Emmanuel II and Umberto I.

St. Peter's Square is the most major city. It houses a number of other attractive sights of Rome, the largest of which is St. Peter's Basilica. The square was designed by Giovanni Bernini in 1656-1667. It has an oval shape, and if you stand at certain points, an optical illusion can be created when the columns of the rows of the colonnade become in one line. The square also has two fountains. One designed by Alberto da Piacenza, the other by Carlo Maderna.

The forum is located in the central part of Rome. This is one of the favorite places for tourists and residents of the capital of Italy. Long term was a place for public gatherings. The attraction has an impressive size and includes a huge number of interesting buildings: Temples, Arches, Basilicas and much more. The most famous building in the Roman Forum is the Temple of Saturn. It was erected in 489 BC. This is one of ancient temples throughout Italy, see in Rome which is a must.

The Sistine Chapel was founded in 1473-1481 according to the project of George de Dolci. Outwardly, this Roman landmark is a simple church building, but inside it is a real work of art. Today, the Sistine Chapel is a full-fledged museum and a pearl of the Renaissance. Inside the chapel, visitors can enjoy the masterpieces of such geniuses as Michelangelo, Sandro Botticelli, Perugino, Domenico Ghirlandaio and many others. The Sistine Chapel is heaven and a must-see destination in Rome for art lovers.

Santa Maria Maggiore is a Catholic church, one of the main basilicas of Rome. It was built in the 4th century. The church shows the outlines of different eras. It has an ancient layout, but its interior decoration dates back to the 18th century. Inside you can see many mosaics, frescoes, paintings and decorations. Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the most visited churches in Rome.

The largest Catholic cathedral in the Vatican, where every tourist in Rome also goes. Several generations of great masters worked on its creation. St. Peter's Cathedral includes 2 architectural directions: Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Inside the cathedral is no less beautiful than outside. Its interior is full of various statues, altars, tombstones, paintings and works of art. The cathedral is divided into several parts: the central nave, the right nave and the left nave. In each of them you can see the work of great masters.

The Baths of Caracalla is a well-known landmark of the city of Rome, which is a whole complex of huge boulders. Their construction was carried out from 212 to 217 BC. This is a truly majestic place that deserves the attention of tourists, which can be visited along the Appian Way, against the backdrop of picturesque nature.

11. Castel Sant'Angelo

The construction of this castle was carried out in the period from 135 to 139. Emperor Hadrian erected the building as a Mausoleum for the burial of emperors. However, later (during the period of the Roman popes) the building began to be used as a fortress from enemy raids. Today the castle is used as a military history museum. During its existence, the castle suffered numerous destructions and restorations. That is why it reflected the architectural styles of several eras. Great place in Rome for history buffs!

12. Raphael's Stanzas

Raphael's stations - rooms located in papal palace Vatican. They present the best works of Raphael and his students, made in the form of frescoes. Raphael's stanzas are only part of the Vatican museum complex. The rooms are quite small, but they fascinate with their grandeur and beauty. The works are presented in 4 rooms: the Stanza della Senyatura, the Stanza d'Eliodoro, the Stanza del Incendio di Borgo and the Stanza Constantine. Raphael's Stanzas are deservedly one of the most interesting places in the Vatican.

13. Vatican Museum Complex

The Vatican Museum Complex was founded in 1506 and, along with the Capitoline Museums, is the oldest in Rome. The Vatican Museums have been operating for more than 500 years, so they feature works of art from different centuries. This is a real treasure visual arts. Today this complex bears the title of one of the richest museums in the world. The most popular attractions of the museum are the aforementioned Sistine Chapel and Raphael's Stations. In total there are 54 galleries here.

The largest library in Rome, called the Vatican Apostolic Library. Founded in 1475. The library has gone through many eras, which allowed it to become one of the richest in manuscripts and collections. The library is still growing today. At present, it has over 1,600,000 classical books, 150,000 manuscripts, 100,000 prints and maps, and so on. The attraction has a rich interior and spacious reading rooms. There are all conditions for a pleasant pastime with a book. From a huge number of works, you are sure to find something interesting.

15. Capitoline Museums

One of oldest museums world, founded in 1471 by decree of Pope Sixtus IV. The Capitoline Museums in Rome were built on the famous Piazza del Campidoglio, standing on the Capitoline Hill. Museums are located in three palaces: the Senator's Palace, the Renaissance Palazzo Conservatori and the New Palace of the 17th century. Each museum has spacious halls where you can see works from different eras. Here you can enjoy Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces, numerous statues and frescoes, as well as interesting archaeological finds. The main collections are presented in Palazza Nuovo and Palazzo dei Conservatori. With a rich history and unique collections, the Capitoline Museums are among the most visited in the world.

Rome - a beautiful city for lovers of art and culture. Almost everything in this city is saturated with centuries of history. In Rome, there are sights of various eras: from the time of the Empire to the Renaissance. Among all the sights, it should be noted: Catholic churches, rich palaces, interesting museums, libraries and much more. It is impossible to see all the sights of Rome in one week. That is why many tourists are not limited to one trip to this beautiful city. Having visited Rome once, you will definitely want to return there again.

Rome is one of the oldest cities in the world and a favorite holiday destination for millions of tourists. People come here to see the most famous sights of Rome with their own eyes and touch the eternal with their own hands. Undoubtedly, for most tourists, Rome is primarily associated with antiquity. However, few people know that the eternal city is ready to offer its guests an equally rich modern excursion program.

Historical sights of Rome

Perhaps the main attraction of Rome, which every tourist is in a hurry to visit. The uniqueness of the Vatican, first of all, is explained by its status, because it is, in fact, a separate state. In addition, here is the main Catholic church in the world and the residence of the Pope himself. On the territory of the city-state there are several notable museums, the collections of which contain unique sculptures and paintings. Also during the tour of the Vatican, you can visit the famous Sistine Chapel and enjoy the incredible beauty of St. Peter's Basilica.

This architectural monument was built in 80 AD as an arena for gladiator fights. The amphitheater consists of 3 tiers, with a total height of 50 meters. The Colosseum is considered the largest amphitheater in the world and can accommodate up to 50 thousand spectators within its walls. Today, this majestic building is proudly the most recognizable landmark of the city and is included in the list of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Check out the best sights in Italy if you want to get to know the country better.

The place is known throughout the world as a temple dedicated to all the gods. The Pantheon is one of the best objects of centric-domed architecture. The structure is made of concrete and brick and topped with a hemispherical dome with a diameter of 43 meters. The highlight of the Pantheon is an unusual hole in the roof, through which a ray of light penetrates at noon, which you can even touch. Now the temple is used as a museum and as the resting place of the famous people of Italy.

Another architectural landmark of the Italian capital. The first stone in the construction of the castle was laid more than 2 thousand years ago. Since then, the building has been reconstructed more than once and used as a castle, tomb, prison, papal residence and treasures. A tour of the castle includes a visit to the Hall of Justice, the Secret Archive, the Hall of Treasures and the Angelic Courtyard. The highlight of the castle is an unusual spiral gallery and a large terrace from which all the beauties of Rome open up.

Impossible to list main historical sites Rome and without the Vittoriano monument. It was erected in honor of the first king of Italy and is a symbol of friendship and reunification. The monument is located on Capitol Hill in the center of Venetian Square. Externally, Vittorio is an architectural composition that includes a monument to the Unknown Soldier, two bas-reliefs and several fountains. The facade of the building is decorated with 16 columns, above each of which there is a statue symbolizing a particular region of Italy.

Once the center of political life in Italy, and now the heart of the Old City. It was here during the existence of the Roman Empire that the most significant state events were held, elections of consuls were held, new laws were proclaimed and victories in wars were celebrated. Initially, the forum included more than 10 buildings, most of which were destroyed over time. To this day, only the ruins of a majestic building have survived, which can be seen by visiting the Open Air Museum.

One of the main Roman sights, on the site of which the first stone of the Ancient Power was laid. The open-air complex includes the Capitol itself, the palaces and the adjacent square, built according to the design of Michelangelo himself. Here you can also visit the Capitoline Museum and look at the historical finds, sculptures and paintings presented in its collections.

The largest historical and archaeological monument of the Italian capital, dating back to the 3rd century AD. At one time, this place served not only as a bath complex, but also as a gathering center for representatives of high society. Here you can have a good rest, relax and at the same time make useful acquaintances. Nowadays, the Baths of Caracalla are used as a museum and venue for performances of the Roman Opera.

One of the first triumphal arches in the world and a significant historical structure of the "eternal" city. Its opening was timed to coincide with the victory of Emperor Titus over the uprising in Jerusalem, which took place in 81 AD. The arch is a structure of 15x13 meters, made of rare Pentel marble. The facade of the arch is decorated with bas-reliefs and semi-columns, as well as historical inscriptions.

An important historical site in Rome dating back to the 2nd century AD. In terms of its importance, it can be compared with such sights as the Pantheon or the Colosseum. The column is a building 36 meters high, made of white marble. The column represents the victory of Emperor Trajan over the Dacians and tells the story of Roman wars in general. At the foot of the column there is a small tomb in which they found their last resort emperor and his wife.