Known as 'Caput Mundi' (capital of the world), Rome, perhaps, is the most compelling and fascinating of all Italy’s historical cities. There is arguably more to see in Rome than any other city in the world, with the relics of over two thousand years packed into its sprawling metropolis. A vibrant mixture of medieval and ancient history, baroque architecture, Italian art and modern fashionable designer shops.
The agreed period of the foundation of the city, was the coronation of Romulus around 753 BC, although the first settlements in the region can be traced back to the early Etruscan civilisation. As its magnificent history continued, artists and architects flocked to work for popes and their rich families, notably in the Renaissance and Baroque periods when marvellous architectural works were created. The legacy of this uninterrupted history can be seen as you wander streets flanked by historical buildings and monuments.
In recent times, in fact, for the Jubilee Year in 2000, billions were spent to restore the city. Churches and palazzi were cleaned, roads and transport improved, car parks turned back into public spaces, whilst museums were completely reorganised and reopened. Rome, as the Italian Tourist State Board boasts, has polished its looks, never has the city seen such organised information for its visitors.
Rome holiday highlights
• Explore the Vatican Museums, Piazza San Bernardo, Via Piemonte, the Aurelian Walls, Porta Pinciana, the Muro Torto and the Villa Borghese.
• Visit Michelangelo’s Capitol, the seat of Rome Town Hall and enjoy the unique sight of the Forum, the Palatine Hill and the massive structure of the imposing Colosseum.
• Venture up tot the hill town Tivoli, probably the most popular place to visit from Rome - Tivoli is a small ancient town famous for its soothing spring of ‘Acqua Albulea’ (sulphureous baths).
• Tour Villa D'Este, famous for its water system, the architecture of its gardens, the pavilions, the artificial caves and the dozens of fountains dotted around this beautifully groomed park.