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Rome - the city of mythical wonders, timeless art and awe-inspiring architecture - is one of the most coveted tourist destinations of the world. And why not? The breathtaking locales offer a portal into the city's illustrative history. Here's a list of the city's top 5 attractions that will take you back in time. As they say, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do."
Castel Sant'Angelo
Located on the right bank of river Tiber, Castel Sant'Angelo was built by Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for his family. As time went by, it served as a fortress for medieval popes and later as a prison till 1870.
Today, the castle is a famous museum, housing numerous artefacts and popular pieces of art. It was also featured in the Tom Hanks starrer Angels and Demons. Mausoleum, fortress, prison and now museum, the monument has had quite a fascinating journey!
Trevi Fountain
The fountain's name comes from its location at the junction of three roads (Tre Vie). It features a sculpture of Neptune, the God of Sea. The God is depicted to be riding in a shell-shaped chariot driven by seahorses.
Legend has it that whoever throws a coin in the fountain will return to Rome again. For those who do not believe in legends, you will be pleased to know that the money collected is used to feed the poor.
Vatican
Although the Vatican is considered as a separate entity, it is situated in Rome and is an integral part of every tourist's itinerary. St. Peter's Square and the Vatican museums are the highlights of this tour.
One of the largest churches in the world, St. Peter's Basilica is an epitome of stunning Renaissance architecture. Designed by some of the most influential Renaissance architects like Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the monument is considered to be the centre of the catholic world.
The Vatican museums are together known as Palazzo Apostolico Vaticano and house several important relics including Michelangelo's stellar paintings, namely the Sistine chapel ceiling and the Last Judgement.
Pantheon
The Pantheon is the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. Originally constructed to serve as a temple for Roman gods in 126 AD, the Pantheon has been serving as a Roman Catholic Church since the seventh century. It was also used as a tomb for painters and kings. Featuring thick brick walls and marble columns, the Pantheon's main attraction is its 43-meter high concrete dome with a 27-feet opening at the centre, known as the Oculus.
Colosseum
The Romans loved to put up and witness a good show, and this is where all the action took place – The Colloseum. This amphitheatre was the chief source of entertainment for the Romans, hosting momentous fights and spellbinding exhibitions of various art forms.
The mammoth stadium took eight laborious years to be built and had a capacity of around 50000 spectators at a time. It is considered to have been an architectural marvel, as it boasted of 80 entrances and had underground entry-exit tunnels/chambers for the performers. The Colosseum also features in the Seven Wonders of the World.
Come to Rome for a fantastic experience; relive the era of the kings, the artistic vigour of Renaissance and the splendour of mythology. For a stress-free excursion, book your tickets in advance to benefit from economical fares and do not forget to avail travel insurance.
