Rome, the “Eternal City” and former capital of the world, is a bubbling metropolis rich in history, filled with culture and bursting with architectural wonders. The capital of Italy, Rome is a cherished and popular destination being one of the most visited cities in the world.

History

The origins of Rome is a topic of much debate. Legend has it that Rome was founded in 753 BC by the twins Romulus and Remus but some archaeologists believe that Rome was founded in the middle of the 8th century BC but this date itself is subject to controversy. The city was the capital of the Roman Kingdom – ruled by a succession of seven kings, the Roman Republic – headed by a Senate and then the Roman Empire in 27 BC led by an Emperor. The Roman Empire is probably the most famous period in the history of Rome as Roman dominance spread to most of Europe and lasted for nearly 1,000 years. Under the reign of Constantine I the Bishop of Rome gained political as well as religious importance, eventually becoming known as the Pope, and established Rome as the centre of the Catholic Church. In 756 AD the Papal States were formed with Rome remaining their capital until its annexation by the Kingdom of Italy in 1870. The latter half of the 15th century saw the Italian Renaissance move from Florence to Rome, a move which saw the creation of much of Rome’s most iconic architecture – St Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel etc. In 1861, although still under the control of the Pope, Rome was declared the capital of Italy taking the title from Florence. 1929 saw the signing of the Lateran Treaty granting the Vatican City independence from the Kingdom of Italy. Following World War II a referendum in 1946 saw the monarchy abolished in favour of the Italian Republic and a period where Rome grew rapidly economically and in terms of population. Rome today, as the capital of Italy, is a modern city, rich in history and proud of its roots.

Getting In & Getting Around

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (also known as Fiumicino International Airport) is the main airport in Rome chartering domestic, European and world-wide flights. The airport is 26km (16 miles) from the city centre with express train connections. Ciampino International Airport is located southeast of the capital and is a popular destination for budget airlines. Termini Station is the main hub for Rome’s transport network with nearly everything starting, terminating or passing through here. Rome is served by 300 bus, 6 tram and 2 metro lines which collectively cover the entire city. There are also a number of tram lines, operating mainly around the historic centre. Driving in Rome isn’t advisable as traffic can be chaotic and parking difficult to find. Walking is a great way to see the city centre, admire the sights and take in the atmosphere.

Culture, Sights & Attractions

When visiting Rome you will be overwhelmed by the sights and attractions that are on offer and will find it difficult in choosing where to start. The remains of the imperial glory days are some of the most famous sights in the world – the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Pantheon. Renaissance architecture is to be found all over the city including the sprawling Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps and the Trevi fountain. Wander the streets of the historic centre where you will stumble across magnificent churches, Renaissance fountains and beautiful piazzas. Walk up Palatine Hill and admire the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II, Roman Forum and the Flavian Palace and enjoy a slice of pizza in the gardens. Visit Vatican City and see the Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica and the Apostolic Palace along with St Peter’s Square and a number of museums. 

Eating Out

Rome is a great city for eating out with lots of trattorie (cafés) and ristoranti (restaurants) scattered about. Roman pizza is delicious, generally more thin crusted than that of other regions and can be found in pizzerias all around the capital. Ice cream, coffee and wine are also extremely good in Rome, enjoy some sat at a pavement café in Piazza Navona and watch the world go by. Other foods are easy to find with Chinese, Thai, Japanese and Indian restaurants located around the city.

Outside The City

Visiting Rome doesn’t mean that you have to be confined to the city centre, there is much to explore close by. Pompeii is possible on a day trip from Rome, you may be tired but it will be well worth walking around the Roman settlement and admiring the ruins and excavations. Frascati is just a thirty minutes train ride to the south east of Rome. The historic hill town is famed for its white wine and is a popular get-away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a trip to Tivoli where you can walk around Villa Adriana, the country retreat of Emperor Hadrian is largest Roman villa known, and Villa d’Este, famous for its beautiful gardens and magnificent fountains.


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