There’s no place like Rome, Italy’s Capital City
jescapes on 03 11, 2009
Rome unfolds like a tapestry women in pale beige clusters accented with terra cotta from the vantage point of one of its seven fabled hills. The Eternal City is at its essence, beyond its color scheme, a captivating blend of both ancient and modern. As the sun rises each morning, city buses, Fiats, cyclists and pedestrians jockey to negotiate the bustling streets of the city named nearly more than 2,500 years ago after the ruler Romulus, who, according to Roamn mythology, founded Rome with his twin brother, Remus.
History tells us that the Roman Republic, which began about 500 B.C. and eventually dominated much of the Mediterranean region, gave way to the Roman Empire. After the fall of empirical Rome, the Holy Roman Empire emerged and came to dominate most of Europe. The empire may be long gone, but tangible remnants have endured, in some cases for millennia.
Even to those who have never set foot there, Rome evokes familiarity as a combination of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Vatican City with its Sistine Chapel as well as some monuments and opulent fountain squares. Trodding the ground where some of the most famous, and infamous, figures in world history can be a walk of experience that is both fascinating and unforgettable.
Rome’s Ancient Wonders
Except for the grand buildings of St. Peter’s Basilica, most of the ancient ruins and religious sites are situated on the east side of the Tiber River, which bisects Rome. One of the best-preserved buildings dating back to ancient Rome is the Pantheon, which, according to history was built by Agrippa circa 27 B.C. as a temple to the gods. It was destroyed by fire but was completely rebuilt around 125 A.D. and in 609 was consecrated as a church by Pope Boniface IV. It was used as a tomb since the Renaissance and considered as the final resting place of painter Raphael and Italian kings Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto II, among others.
Another ancient wonder is the Roman Forum which sets in the center of Rome. Built in in the 6th century B.C., it’s now one of Europe’s most visited archeological sites. Nearby is the Capitoline Hill which is considered the most sacred of Rome’s seven hills. It is said to be home to the sacrosanct Temple of Jupiter in which Brutus and his accomplices locked themselves up after murdering Julius Caesar. It’s current main attraction is the Capitoline Museum which showcases ancient Roman artifacts that includes an original second-century B.C. bronze statue of Marcus Aurelius and the head from a giant bronze statue of Constantine.
The Colosseum is another ancient but still-standing amphitheater where Romans once turned out in droves to witness bloody gladiatorial fights and elaborate stage productions millions ago. Presently, crowds of tourists snap photos of what remains. Next to the Colosseum is the Arch of Constantine, which cuts an impressive silhouette in the Roman skyline. Its towering ivory structure commemorates the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 A.D., which resulted in Constantine’s conversion to Christianity.
You have not visited Rome without a stop in Vatican City. Visitors of all religions marvel at the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square and Basilica. The wide-open square that lies before St. Peter’s Basilica is framed by two mammoth semicircular Doric colonnades topped with 140 statues of saints. Crowds traditionally gather here for Christmas and Easter services hoping to catch a glimpse of the Pope. The centerpiece of the opulent interior of St. Peter’s Basilica is the papal altar. The first chapel located on the north aisle is home to Michelangelo’s Pietae. Beneath the basilica house is the Vatican grottoes that house a cache of papal tombs, including that of Pope John Paul II. Climb the steps to the top of the basilica’s dome if you want to get a panoramic view of Rome. There is however a strict enforcement of dress code in the basilica, particulary during the summer months. Strictly prohibited are wearing of shorts, miniskirts and bare shoulders. Entrance attendant’s won’t hesitate to drove you away if dressed improperly.
The Vatican Museums located just nearby is a vast assemblage of art. It is divided into a complex of pontifical museums and galleries and boasts everything from ancient Egyptian art and hieroglyphics to tapestries, ceramics and a sea of famous paintings. For diehard lovers of art, this is a great place to sightsee. Don’t miss the Sistine Chapel where you’ll find Michelangelo’s masterful depictions of biblical stories.
Rome’s Modern Pleasures
Rome is not only a place to learn great history but also a place for shopping. You’ll find many boutiques and gift stores near the Piazza di Spagna, home of the famous Spanish Steps. Rack up a string of purchases at Rome’s Madison Avenue where top designers are located. For some affordable shopping, climb the Spanish Steps and head towards Via Francesco Crispi.
Rome is not only a combination of shopping and sightseeing but of dining too. It abounds good cafes and trattorias. Cuisine is simple and rustic centering mostly on roasted meats and fish with vegetables as well as pasta side dishes.
No matter what combination of sightseeing you decide upon, savor the beauty of each site as you savor the taste of Pasta for which Italians are known for. Rome isn’t going anymore so keep it on your list as it is one of the best places on earth to visit.