They say ‘when in Rome, do as the Romans do’. When it comes to visiting Rome it is a chance to explore and experience some of the most fascinating, historical and cultural areas in the world. We are all aware of many of the most well known areas within Rome, but when planning a trip to this fantastic city, we highly recommend that you include these must see sites in your itinerary.

One of the must see sites within Rome is the Pantheon, which is located near the Piazza Navona on the northeast side of the city. Built around 120 A.D, this is one of most well preserved ancient Roman buildings which was originally dedicated to the major Roman Gods by Emperor Hadrian. The building was consecrated and then saved as a church in the 600s and is a chance to take a step back in time and experience a true piece of history. With plenty of great neighboring sites and places to eat and take in the awesome site of the Pantheon, this is a sight you are guaranteed to not forget about in a hurry and be completely astounded by.

Rome’s Colosseum is known as one of the most iconic sites within Rome and is a chance to ‘live’ history and imagine the Romans who once stood there before you. Located near the ancient centre of Rome but not as well preserved as the Pantheon, the Colosseum was originally commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in the 70s A.D. This was the original site where many gladiators fought until the power of Rome was taken over by Constantine who outlawed all forms of gladiator games and blood sport. Following this, the Colosseum was abandoned and stripped of its original treasure, but it still remains one of the most important symbols of world history and heritage.

St Peter’s is a site filled with a great deal of history and remains one of the greatest living testaments to the history of Rome. Following his death, St Peter was buried near to Nero’s Circus in a small cemetery on Vatican Hill and it is believed that this spot lies directly below the current dome of St Peter’s. Not only is this a stunning piece of architecture and history, but it is also a huge symbol of Christianity as it is one of most famous churches within the Christian faith. It is also a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces and architectural designs, displaying work by many of the greats including Michelangelo, Bramante and Maderno. This is a spot which is frequently visited by fans of Rome and it will continue to amaze you every time you visit.

The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are great for those who thoroughly enjoy viewing great treasures from history and historical pieces of art. The Vatican Museums are located in the Papal Palace and include some extremely elaborate rooms which are home to a wide range of treasures. The most famous room within the Vatican Museums is the Sistine Chapel which is well known thanks to Michelangelo’s most famous painting. The Sistine Chapel itself is quite a small, but this is soon forgotten as you begin to view these magnificent pieces of art which is why it is on the top of many tourists’ lists when visiting Rome.

Fans of ruins will thoroughly enjoy the Roman Forum and Palantine Hill. These areas no longer resemble their original magnificent stature, but the ruins which now remain offer some fantastic insights into what may have once existed in their place. By investing into a historical guide on the ruins, you will be able to identify the ruins and possibly conduct your own thoughts on exactly what it is you are viewing. Here you are able to get quite close to the ruins and monuments which allows for an experience which you simply cannot get from reading books on Rome.

Rome is an opportunity to explore into different areas of history and experience sights which many can only dream of. By making the effort to visit these fantastic sights, you will be opening up your eyes to a world of culture and history and are sure to be amazed by your vacation in Italy as a whole.

Author Bio: Mark Scriven is an online marketing expert and has written many articles on business, travel and the internet. For a wide selection of vacation rentals in Italy visit Cottages to Castles, specialists in luxury vacation accommodation in Italy.

Category: Travel
Keywords: rome, visit rome, Colosseum, Pantheon