Rome, the Eternal City, has for many years offered a visual delight to the visitor with a display of its churches and restored monuments. The five top picks detailed here will allow the reader to get a real insight of the glorious days of the Roman Empire.
Colosseum
This architectural marvel bears ample testimony to the skills the Romans were known to possess. Home to innumerable bloody gladiator combats, said to be witnessed by close to 50,000 spectators was a popular entertainment avenue. Visitors are advised to book online to avoid serpentine queues. One ticket has a two day validity and apart from the Colosseum includes the Forum and Palatine Hill.
Vatican City
This independent state, though located in Rome, is the home of the Pope and a few elite residents which are under protection of the Swiss Guard militia. The highlights here are the impressive seventeenth century St Peter’s Square, St Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s Pieta. The walls of the Vatican also house the museum which holds such masterpieces as the Sistine chapel and the painted ceiling of Michelangelo.
Trevi Fountain
From rediscovering love to aspiring for well being, the famous Trevi Fountain is a major tourist attraction of Rome. As soon as you have managed to throw your three coins and made your appropriate wish you can spend quality time at the Baroque, displaying Neptune riding the chariot. And by the way, your charitable donation at the Trevi is collected for feeding the poor of the city.
Capuchin Crypt
The Capuchin Crypt prominently portrays the life of the religious order of the Friars of Capuchin. The skull and bones on display may not offer a delightful visual, but the fact is these bones have been arranged to describe the story of life and death, rather than just being a macabre show. They depict a special interpretation of the teachings of the church regarding what is good and what is evil.
Pantheon
Once a Roman temple, the Pantheon, passed through many a uprising before it was finally converted into a church. It is located in the Campo and Novana neighborhood of Rome, and this 27BC building lies remarkably intact even till today. The intricate architecture of the Pantheon has inspired renowned artists and painters alike with its tall pillars rising skywards. The 27 foot hole in the middle of the roof dome through which the rays of the sun enter, gives the visitor a stunning impression of the oculus.
Rome is a city replete with icons depicting the Christian faith. Though your interests will largely govern the places you may want to visit, these five sites are some of the most obligatory landmarks of the city. These sites have been carefully selected keeping a varied experience in mind, so that the visitor gets to explore the tourist icons and other attractions together. Having said that, Rome is an extremely large place and can become overwhelming even for the most experienced sightseer. So do not forget to toss the coin in the Trevi Fountain to enjoy a revisit to this magnificent place.
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.
