Top 17 Tourist Attractions In Rome, Italy [2023] Do Not Miss #4:

Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with a rich history and culture that has been around for centuries. From ancient ruins to iconic landmarks, Rome offers something for everyone.

Whether you are looking to explore the city’s art and architecture or simply relax in its many parks and squares, there is no shortage of things to do here. With its amazing food scene, vibrant nightlife, and stunning views of the Italian countryside, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to Rome every year!

Here are 17 must-see attractions in this incredible destination that will make your trip unforgettable:

Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome and a symbol of the power and magnificence of the Ancient Roman Empire. Built between 72 and 80 AD, this massive amphitheater was used for gladiator fights, hunting shows, drama and animal shows as well as executions. It was built with an elliptical shape, measuring 188m in length, 156m wide, and 48m high. The building has three floors with 80 arches, and could hold up to 50,000 spectators. Its exterior is made of limestone blocks while the interior is made of brickwork.

Today the Colosseum is a popular tourist destination where many people can come to take pictures and marvel at its grandeur. Inside there are many ancient artifacts to explore such as statues, mosaics and frescoes that were once part of the arena floor or walls. There’s also a museum where visitors can learn more about its history and how it was used during its heyday.

One of the most impressive features of the Colosseum is its remarkable state considering it has been around for over two millennia – it’s estimated that only half of its original structure remains intact! Although much restoration work has been done over the centuries, some parts are still deteriorating due to weathering or natural disasters like earthquakes. Despite this, it is still an incredible sight to behold; a reminder of Rome’s grand past and a testament to human ingenuity!

Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica

The Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica are two of the most famous sights in Rome, and for good reason. The Vatican City is an independent city-state located within the city limits of Rome and home to the Pope and his court. It is made up of a number of buildings, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and several museums like the Vatican Museums.

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest churches in the world and stands at the heart of the Vatican City. It was built over five centuries ago on the site where St. Peter, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles, was laid to rest after he was martyred in 64 AD. The basilica has many notable features such as its dome which is one of the highest ever built – reaching 136 meters tall! Inside you can also find impressive works of art by Renaissance masters like Michelangelo and Bernini as well as beautiful mosaics created by artists from all over Italy.

The Sistine Chapel is another must-see while visiting Rome; it was designed by renowned Renaissance artist Michelangelo in 1508 and painted with some of his most famous frescoes depicting Biblical scenes such as “The Creation of Adam” and “The Last Judgment” among others. The chapel also houses important works from other Italian painters like Botticelli, Ghirlandaio and Perugino as well as a series of tapestries from Raphael’s School.

No visit to Rome would be complete without exploring its incredible museums either; there are about 65 museums in total covering diverse topics such as archaeology, modern art, ancient sculptures, paintings and more! Rome also boasts an impressive collection of galleries housed in former monasteries or palaces; Villa Borghese Gallery being one notable example that showcases Renaissance and Baroque artwork from names like Caravaggio, Titian or Bernini among others.

Pantheon

The Pantheon is a magnificent structure located in the heart of Rome, Italy. Built in 126 AD by Roman Emperor Hadrian, it has been standing for nearly two thousand years and is one of the best-preserved monuments from ancient times. The Pantheon is an impressive feat of engineering; its dome is 43 meters high and it has a diameter of more than 43 meters as well, making it one of the largest unsupported domes in the world. This structure also has a unique design; it has an oculus at the top of its dome which allows natural light to enter and provides a spectacular view of the sky at night.

The interior of the Pantheon contains many intricate designs such as mosaics and marble sculptures. It also houses several tombs including those belonging to noted Renaissance artists like Raphael, Annibale Carracci, and others. The Pantheon was originally built as a temple dedicated to all gods but was later changed into a church dedicated to St. Mary and the Martyrs by Pope Boniface IV in 609 AD.

Today, visitors can still explore this remarkable monument and marvel at its incredible architecture with its mix of Doric columns, Corinthian pilasters, and large windows that allow for ample amounts of light inside. The interior boasts intricate marble floors, beautiful frescoes on the walls depicting various religious scenes, and impressive statues from past centuries that have been preserved over time. Whether you’re looking for historical insights or simply want to admire its beauty up close, the Pantheon should definitely not be missed when visiting Rome!

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome, Italy. Located in the center of the city, this Baroque-style fountain has been a popular tourist destination for centuries. Built between 1732 and 1762, it was designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi and stands at 26 meters tall and 49 meters wide. It is made up of over 1,500 different pieces, including Travertine marble statues depicting Neptune and Abundance as well as other figures from Roman mythology that have been crafted by such acclaimed sculptors as Pietro Bracci and Giuseppe Pannini.

The Trevi Fountain is best known for its stunning design that features an array of statuary figures standing on top of a central structure surrounded by cascading waters that seem to come down from the sky itself. This magnificent fountain draws its namesake from a nearby church dedicated to Saint Mary in Aquiro; ‘Trevi’ translates to ‘three streets’, which refers to the three roads leading into the square where the fountain sits.

The Trevi Fountain has become an essential part of Roman culture and tradition throughout history; it was even featured in numerous films including Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita as well as The Lizzie McGuire Movie. As legend goes, those who wish to return to Rome should throw three coins into the fountain – one for each road surrounding it – ensuring their return at some point in future! Another interesting fact about this landmark is that more than 3,000 Euros are thrown into it every day; all money collected by municipal authorities is then donated towards charity projects around Rome.

Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps, located in the city of Rome, Italy, is a monumental staircase constructed from 135 individual steps. The staircase connects Piazza di Spagna at its base with the Trinita dei Monti church atop the peak of the hill. This iconic landmark was built between 1723 and 1725 and was originally intended to link two popular tourist destinations; however, it quickly became one of the most beloved attractions in Rome and has become an example of Baroque architecture.

The Spanish Steps are known for their beautiful white marble design, which features curved balconies decorated with wrought-iron railings. At their base sits a large fountain representing the sea god Neptune, flanked by four allegorical figures depicting Abundance, Health, Chastity and Agriculture. On each side of the fountain stands a large obelisk that dates back to ancient Egypt.

The Spanish Steps have long been considered one of Rome’s most romantic spots; it has featured prominently in films such as Roman Holiday (1953) and The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999). It also served as a gathering place for artists during the 19th century who wanted to take inspiration from its beauty; among them was French novelist Stendhal who described his experience there as “the morning coolness that made me shiver.”

Today, visitors can still enjoy this impressive structure by walking up or down its 135 steps or simply sitting along its balconies to admire its beauty and take in some of Rome’s breathtaking views. The Spanish Steps are also home to several renowned cafes and restaurants which serve traditional Italian cuisine; they offer ideal spots for visitors to enjoy an al fresco lunch while admiring one of Rome’s most remarkable monuments!

Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel, located in Vatican City, is one of the most iconic places of worship in the world. It was built by the Order of Saint Sylvester between 1473 and 1481 and was originally intended to serve as a grand place of worship for Popes. The chapel is best known for its breathtaking ceiling painted by Italian artist Michelangelo from 1508 to 1512; it stands as one of his greatest masterpieces, featuring nine scenes from Genesis which depict important stories from the Bible.

At the center of this awe-inspiring mural lies the Creation of Adam scene, where God reaches out with his finger towards Adam’s extended hand. This image has become an iconic symbol for human connection and understanding throughout history; it continues to be used today in many forms, including literature, film and music.

The Sistine Chapel has also become renowned for its astonishing frescoes that line its walls; created by such artists as Botticelli and Perugino, these paintings include depictions of several Biblical scenes such as the Last Judgement (the main painting on the wall behind the altar) and other religious vignettes like The Birth of Christ. Other frescoes decorate its four pendentives which were commissioned by Pope Julius II to portray specific saints: St. Peter, St. Paul, St Matthew and St. Mark.

The Sistine Chapel remains a pilgrimage site for visitors around the world who come to admire Michelangelo’s magnificent artwork that stretches across its ceiling and walls. It also serves as an important venue for papal ceremonies such as conclaves (where a new pope is chosen), beatifications and consistories (where bishops are appointed). Due to its immense cultural significance, it was listed as part of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites in 1984 – a testament to its status among some of Rome’s most remarkable monuments!

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum is one of the most iconic and historically significant sites in Rome. This ancient site has been home to some of the greatest moments in Roman history and serves as a reminder of the power and grandeur that was once held within this city. It sits directly between the Palatine Hill and Capitoline Hill, two well-known hills that were once considered to be part of Rome’s seven hills.

This forum was built by Julius Caesar in 46 BC to serve as a central meeting place for citizens and politicians, although it had existed long before his reign. Before the creation of the Roman Forum, Romans would make their way to large open areas known as “agora” which served as public squares where people could meet, discuss politics, hold trade fairs, or simply enjoy leisure activities.

Today, visitors can explore the ruins of this ancient forum which serves as an incredible reminder of how powerful Rome used to be during its time. The ruins include temples dedicated to gods such as Jupiter Optimus Maximus, Mars Ultor and Venus Genetrix; arches such as the Arch of Titus (dedicated by Emperor Domitian in 81 AD) and Arch of Septimius Severus (built to commemorate his victory over Parthia); along with several other structures like basilicas, law courts and senators’ homes.

Aside from these remains, visitors can also admire artwork located around the area such as statues depicting gods or political figures that have been set up throughout its history. Additionally, several important events have taken place here throughout history including Julius Caesar’s funeral procession in 44 BC and Mussolini’s speech in 1922 where he declared himself leader of Fascist Italy.

Thanks to its incredible historical significance, UNESCO named the Roman Forum a World Heritage Site in 1980 – a tribute to its importance among some of Rome’s most remarkable monuments!

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is a stunning and vibrant public square located in the heart of Rome, Italy. It is one of the most iconic and beautiful squares in the whole city, boasting an array of historic monuments, lively bars and restaurants, and exquisite architecture.

The square was originally built during the 15th century, upon the ruins of what used to be a stadium for athletic games known as the ‘Stadio di Domiziano’. This stadium was commissioned by Emperor Domitian who wanted it to be the venue for his chariot racing events which he held in honor of the God Apollo.

The Piazza is rectangular in shape and measures almost 300 meters long. Its main feature is its three majestic fountains: The Fountain of Neptune (or Fontana del Nettuno), with its magnificent bronze figure standing tall over cascading water; The Fountain of Moor (Fontana del Moro) with its 16th-century statue depicting a Moor fighting with a dolphin; and The Fountain of Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi), designed by Andrea Bernini in 1651 featuring four figures representing rivers from different continents.

The surrounding streets are lined with lively bars and restaurants that serve traditional Italian cuisine alongside boutiques selling artisanal crafts and souvenirs from around Italy. During summer months, entertainers such as musicians or mimes often perform on the square, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

Since its beginning, Piazza Navona has been home to many historical events including Pope Innocent XI’s election in 1676 and Garibaldi’s speech during his campaign for unification in 1860 – making this piazza an integral part of Italian history! Today it remains one of Rome’s most popular destinations where locals gather to enjoy good food or simply admire this beautiful space while soaking up the sun.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant’Angelo, also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, is a historic fortified palace located on the right bank of the Tiber in Rome. It was commissioned by Roman Emperor Hadrian and built between 135-139 AD as a grand mausoleum for himself and his family.

The castle stands at an impressive height of 82 meters and is shaped like a cylinder. Its walls are made from travertine blocks with alternating layers of bricks and tufa. Inside, visitors can explore the castle’s many chambers including its bedrooms, dining rooms, art galleries, weapons storerooms and even secret passages!

Atop the structure stands an angel statue holding a cross which was added in 1687 under Pope Innocent XI after he believed it had been visited by an angel during a plague outbreak in Rome. The statue has since become one of Castel Sant’Angelo’s most famous features.

Throughout its history, Castel Sant’Angelo has served several purposes beyond being just a mausoleum. It was used as a fortress to protect Popes during times of danger such as invasions or sieges; it housed prisoners such as Benvenuto Cellini; and it acted as part of a secret passageway connecting Vatican City to Castel Sant’Angelo known as Passetto di Borgo.

Today, this spectacular castle attracts tourists from all over the world due to its incredible architecture and rich history! Visitors can take guided tours through its various chambers where they will learn about how it served various roles throughout its existence – making it one of Rome’s most unique monuments!

Villa Borghese and Borghese Gallery

Villa Borghese and Borghese Gallery are two of Rome’s most renowned attractions. The Villa is a large public park located north of the city center and it is one of the largest parks in all of Europe. It was founded in 1605 by Cardinal Scipione Borghese and houses some of the best works of art found in Italy, including masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.

The park itself is made up of several gardens and ponds, as well as many pathways for visitors to explore. It also features numerous sculptures, fountains, lakes, temples and even an amphitheater which hosts performances during the summer months. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby where visitors can have a bite to eat or just relax after a long day walking around the park.

At the heart of Villa Borghese lies the magnificent Borghese Gallery – a museum built between 1808-1818 to house Cardinal Borghese’s personal collection of artwork. Inside its walls you will find sculptures from ancient Greece and Rome as well as a plethora of other artworks from different eras – making it one of Rome’s best cultural attractions!

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Rome or simply want to admire its stunning architecture, Villa Borghese and Borghese Gallery are must-see landmarks that no visitor should miss!

Palatine Hill

Palatine Hill is one of the seven hills that overlooks Rome and is considered by many to be the most important. It is believed to have been where Romulus established the city in 753 BC and was later transformed into a royal palace by Emperor Augustus.

Today, Palatine Hill stands as one of Rome’s oldest structures and one of its most visited sites – attracting millions of tourists every year. Visitors can explore the ruins of this ancient hill including its baths, temples, gardens and houses. The site also offers amazing views over the city below with landmarks such as Circus Maximus and Colosseum easily visible from its peak!

Aside from the ruins, visitors can also find other attractions such as museums and parks on Palatine Hill. The most notable museum is the Museo Palatino which features artifacts from imperial palaces dating back to antiquity. There are also several gardens scattered throughout the hill ranging in size from small courtyards to large public parks – making it a great place to relax after exploring its historical sites!

In addition to being a heavily visited tourist attraction, Palatine Hill has also become an important archaeological site for historians who seek to uncover more about Roman culture. In fact, excavations at Palatine Hill have revealed evidence that suggests it was inhabited much earlier than previously thought – possibly even as early as 1000 BC! This makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to learn more about Rome’s history or just enjoy some breathtaking views!

Piazza del Popolo

Piazza del Popolo is a monumental public square located at the entrance of Rome and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Originally built in 1538 by Pope Paul III, the square nearly doubled in size between 1811-1822 under Napolean’s rule and today it boasts an impressive elliptical shape with three separate entrances – each leading to different parts of Rome.

At the center of Piazza del Popolo lies an obelisk taken from Egypt that was given to Rome as a gift from Augustus – making this one of Rome’s oldest monuments. The base of the obelisk is decorated with hieroglyphs and its height reaches over 25 meters – making it an impressive sight! On either side of the obelisk are two identical churches known as Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, which were both built in 1675 and feature stunning Baroque architecture.

The piazza also showcases many stunning sculptures such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s Neptune Fountain, Pietro da Cortona’s Christ Redeemer monument, as well as four matching lion statues found at each corner of the square. Other attractions include an outdoor cafe where visitors can grab a bite to eat while admiring the view, shops selling souvenirs and artwork, and even small gardens where visitors can take a break from all the hustle and bustle.

In addition to its historical sites, Piazza del Popolo is also known for its vibrant nightlife scene where locals and tourists alike come together for drinks and music. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder why this popular attraction has become one of Rome’s most visited destinations!

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four major basilicas in Rome, and stands out as the largest Catholic Marian church in the city. Located at the foot of Esquiline Hill, this impressive basilica was built during the 5th century and features a mix of Renaissance and Baroque elements throughout its architecture.

The exterior of Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is dominated by a large portico which faces onto Piazza del Esquilino. The entrance is marked by two large bronze doors that bear scenes from the life and works of Mary, while four statues depicting saints can be found above them.

Inside the basilica one finds an impressive array of frescoes, mosaics, sculptures and other artworks. One of the most notable works is Jacopo Torriti’s 13th century mosaic depicting Christ between Saints Peter and Paul on a golden background – known to many as “The Golden Dream”. Other works include a beautiful mosaic floor made up of over 20,000 tesserae (tiny squares) dating from the 12th century, frescoes from the 14th century depicting scenes from Mary’s life and two ornate pulpits designed by Carlo Maderno in 1614.

In addition to its artwork, Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore also houses several important relics such as pieces believed to be from Jesus’ crib, as well as fragments from his crown of thorns. It also contains several chapels dedicated to various saints such as Saint John Paul II and Saint Frances Cabrini who was canonized here in 1946.

Standing tall for many centuries at the heart of Rome, Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore continues to draw thousands of visitors each year who come to admire its stunning architecture and artworks. Even today it remains an iconic symbol of faith in Italy with its grandeur paying homage to Italy’s rich history and religious traditions.

Trastevere

Trastevere is a charming and vibrant neighborhood located on the west bank of the Tiber River in Rome. It is known for its narrow cobblestone lanes, quaint cafes, colorful markets, and lively nightlife.

The area has a long and vibrant history dating back to the 1st century BC when it was home to wealthy aristocrats, merchants and artisans. Over time it became popular with artists who appreciated its small-town atmosphere and picturesque views. Today, Trastevere remains a popular hub for writers, painters, musicians and other creative types looking for inspiration.

The area also offers a wide range of attractions worth exploring. Visitors can stroll through the small alleys lined with pastel-colored buildings or explore one of Rome’s oldest churches – Santa Maria in Trastevere – which dates back to the 4th century AD. They can sample some delicious Italian cuisine at one of the many restaurants or take a leisurely boat ride down the Tiber River at sunset.

On any given night there are dozens of bars, pubs and clubs open until late where locals gather to enjoy live music and partake in some friendly conversation over drinks. There is also plenty of shopping available at local boutiques selling handmade items such as leather bags or artisanal jewelry as well as larger stores offering designer fashion from all over Italy and Europe.

No matter what you’re looking for – whether it’s culture, relaxation or nightlife – Trastevere has something for everyone to enjoy! This charming neighborhood captures the very essence of Rome with its unique mix of artistry, history and hospitality that keep visitors coming back time after time!

Campo de’ Fiori

Campo de’ Fiori is a picturesque neighborhood in the heart of Rome, Italy. Located between the Piazza Navona and the Palazzo Farnese, it is known for its lively market square and colorful fruit stall. Every morning vendors gather here to sell fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables and freshly made pasta.

The area has been a hub of activity since the 15th century when it was a popular gathering place for merchants, traders and artisans. Today it still retains its old-world charm with cobblestone roads and rustic buildings that are centuries old. The focal point of Campo de’ Fiori is its eponymous market square which is lined with inviting cafes and al fresco dining spots where locals come to enjoy some delicious Italian food.

At night, the piazza transforms into vibrant nightlife scene as bars, pubs and clubs turn up the music and draw visitors from all over Rome. Visitors can find anything from traditional Italian fare to modern international cuisine at nearby restaurants or explore the many galleries selling artwork from local talented artists.

In addition to its shops and boutiques, Campo de’ Fiori also has several historical landmarks worth exploring such as Giordano Bruno’s statue which honors his martyrdom in 1600 after being burned at stake for heresy by the Inquisition. The famous writer Giambattista Vico who wrote about early philosophy and natural science can also be found here, standing proud above a fountain in his honor.

Whether you’re looking for some good Italian food or just want to explore Rome’s vibrant culture, Campo de’ Fiori has something for everyone! With its unique blend of historical architecture, local culture and lively atmosphere it’s no surprise this charming neighborhood attracts so many visitors from around the world!

Piazza di Spagna

Piazza di Spagna is a beautiful square located in the heart of Rome, Italy. Named after the Spanish Embassy which is located at its center, this iconic landmark has been a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike since the 16th century. With its breathtaking views and stunning architecture, Piazza di Spagna is a must-see while visiting Rome.

The area is home to several important sites such as the Fontana della Barcaccia or ‘Fountain of the Old Boat’, an impressive marble fountain created by Pietro Bernini in 1627. The design is based on a Roman legend where an old boat was discovered washed up on the steps during a flood due to the Tiber River overflowing its banks. Visitors can also find two large staircases – known as the ‘Scalinata di Trinita dei Monti’ – that lead up to Pincio Hill and offer spectacular views of Rome from above.

Nearby lies Keats-Shelley House Museum which is dedicated to English Romantic poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley who once lived in this house while studying Italian culture and art during their stay in 1820–21. It now houses artifacts related to their lives such as manuscripts, books and paintings with over 5 000 volumes in its library.

In addition to these attractions there are plenty of places to do some shopping around Piazza di Spagna such as designer boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries and more which offer everything from high-end fashion items to locally made souvenirs. There are also several restaurants available serving delicious Italian cuisine including hand-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas that make dining here an unforgettable experience!

Whether you’re looking for unique treasures or just want to admire some breathtaking sights, Piazza di Spagna has something for everyone! Whether you come here for a day visit or plan on staying longer, this historic site will leave you with unforgettable memories of your time spent in Rome!

Villa d’Este

Villa d’Este is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome, Italy. Located in the lush gardens of Tivoli, this stunning villa was once the summer residence for Cardinal Ippolito II d’Este back in 1550. Today, it stands as a testament to Renaissance architecture and artistry and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The entire complex consists of over 500 fountains, waterfalls, terraces, grottoes and cascades spread out over 25 acres of beautiful gardens. These spectacular sights are further enhanced by the numerous sculptures, reliefs and mosaics found throughout the property which were added by various Popes and Cardinals throughout history.

The main focal point of Villa d’Este is its magnificent Fountain of Neptune which stands in front of the main entrance. This majestic work of art takes its name from the Greek God Neptune who symbolizes strength, power and wisdom – traits that reflect the spirit of this Renaissance villa. Created by Giovanni Fontana in 1572, it features a grand statue at its center surrounded by four horseshoe-shaped basins with cascading waterfalls pouring into them.

Other notable features include Fountain of Dragons which has two large stone serpents spitting jets of water and Galatea’s Grotto where visitors can find a breathtaking marble sculpture depicting Cupid riding on a dolphin amidst an impressive array of stalactites and stalagmites created from seashells.

Villa d’Este also houses an exquisite library with handwritten manuscripts from antiquity that are still used today for research purposes by scholars from all over the world. The walls feature intricate frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible while various pieces from Renaissance artists adorn the hallways alongside ancient Roman artifacts such as coins, pottery and statues.

Villa d’Este offers something for everyone – whether you’re looking for stunning artwork or just want to take in some fresh air among nature’s finest creations! With its graceful architecture and lush gardens it’s no surprise why this magical place continues to captivate visitors year after year!

Conclusion:

Rome, Italy is a city full of historical and cultural attractions that will captivate any traveler. From the Keats-Shelley House Museum to the iconic Villa d’Este, there are countless sites to explore in this beautiful destination.

Whether you’re looking for unique treasures or just want to admire some breathtaking sights, Rome has something for everyone!

With its rich history and stunning architecture it’s no wonder why so many people visit year after year – come see what all the fuss is about and experience this magical place yourself!