Rome has always been the beating heart of Italy with 2,700 years of history, and a global influence in art, architecture, and culture that is difficult to measure. From ancient ruins to Renaissance palaces, quaint cafes to elegant restaurants, Rome offers mystery and timeless beauty around every corner. There is truly never a dull moment in the Eternal City.

A Brief History

Legend has it that Rome was founded by the twins Romulus and Remus in 753 BC, who were said to be raised by a she-wolf. Historically, Rome evolved from a small village on the banks of the Tiber River into the epicenter of one of the most powerful and influential civilizations in history—the Roman Empire.

The Roman Republic, established in 509 BC, marked the beginning of Rome’s ascendancy. Through military conquests and strategic alliances, Rome expanded its territory, becoming a dominant force in the Mediterranean. The Punic Wars with Carthage, led by figures like Hannibal and Scipio Africanus, further solidified Rome’s influence. In 27 BC, Rome transitioned from a republic to an empire with the rise of Augustus Caesar, marking the beginning of the Pax Romana—a period of relative peace and stability that lasted for about two centuries.

The city flourished during this time, witnessing the construction of iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. However, the decline of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century AD marked the end of this golden era. Rome faced invasions, economic decline, and political fragmentation. The city fell under the sway of various rulers, including the Byzantines, the Ostrogoths, and the Lombards, before becoming the seat of the Papal States.

In the 19th century, Rome played a pivotal role in the unification of Italy, becoming the capital of the newly formed Kingdom of Italy in 1871. Today, Rome stands as a living museum of its illustrious past, where ancient ruins and Renaissance masterpieces coexist with a modern, bustling metropolis. It remains a global center for art, culture, and history, drawing millions of visitors each year to marvel at its architectural wonders and immerse themselves in the legacy of an extraordinary civilization.

Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore

One of the four Patriarchal Basilicas of Rome, Maria Maggiore was built by Pope Liberio who is said to have seen the Virgin Mary in his dreams on August 5th 356. This is one of the most celebrated and beautiful churches in Rome that brings pilgrims from all over the world.

Palazzo Spada

Palazzo Spada holds the powerful Cardinal Spada’s vast collection which includes art by Rubens, Dürer, Caravaggio, Guido Reni, Titian, Jan Brueghel the Elder, Guercino, and Domenichino. Also waiting to be discovered is Borromini’s Prospective Gallery, a Baroque masterpiece built in 1652. This is a must-see, off-the-beaten-path attraction.

Appia Antica

Located just outside the city center, the Appian Way, or Via Appia Antica, is an ancient Roman road built by Appius Claudius in the 5th century B.C. to connect Rome with southern Italy. Stroll along the 2,500 year old ancient thoroughfare which displays many still-standing burial monuments to the Roman elite families that ruled the Empire over the ages.

Montemartini Centrale Museum

Set in Rome’s first public electrical power plant, the Centrale Montemartini Museum presents marble statues from the Capitoline Collection set against the backdrop of preserved turbines, diesel engines, and steam boilers to create one of the most thought-provoking museum spaces Rome has to offer.

Hotel Raphael

Beautiful hotel located at the north end of Piazza Navona with a perfect rooftop terrace overlooking central Rome. Just walk straight past the front desk and you’ll see the elevator. Head up the 5th floor then follow the signs to the terrace for lovely views of Roma.

St. Pauls Outside the Wall

Located at the presumed burial place of St. Paul, the basilica lies outside the Aurelian walls of Rome, hence its name. The architecture and famous works of art alone are worth the visit, but you will find on display the traditional chains of St. Paul when he was imprisoned in Rome.

Borghese Gallery

Holding the largest collection of Bernini statues in the world, the famous palace turned art gallery is situated on the grounds of Villa Borghese, and first constructed in the 17th century by Cardinal Borghese to showcase his many collected works of art.

Botanical Gardens in Trastevere

The quiet and shady Orto Botanico in Trastevere is one of Europe’s finest small botanical gardens. It was laid out in 1883 over 30 acres and currently run by Rome’s University, La Sapienza.

When in Rome…

An outdoor dining experience is a must do in Rome, one of the things the Eternal City is famous for. Although a bit touristy, Piazza Navona is a great spot with a bustling atmosphere filled with restaurants and cafes offering alfresco dining and chairs facing out for the best people-watching, while musicians stroll and play for you. For a more local experience head to Piazza Coppelle, a smaller more secluded square just a few blocks north of the Pantheon.

If you’re looking for gelato

Giolitti is a famous ice cream shop close to the Pantheon is arguably the best gelato in central Rome! A must visit on your trip to the Eternal City.

The Centro Storico is the beating historical center of Rome that includes major sites like Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. Stay here if you are short on time and want to pack as much of the historical city center as possible. 

Monti is oldest rione of Rome, and today a splendid little neighborhood jam packed with traditional quaint mom-and-pop-style trattoria’s and high-end boutiques. Stay here if you want local shopping and prefer a more suburban setting.