If you are planning your first visit to the Eternal City, there are some must-see places you should go to. These are the places to see in Rome because of historical, cultural, or political importance.
Collosseum of Rome
Originally called the Flavian Amphitheater, after the emperor dynasty when it was built, the Collosseum, which means giant in the Roman language, became so named because of its size.
During its heyday, this enormous place to see in Rome was the venue for all gladiator games. Participants of this gory sports included criminals and thrill seeking men who just wanted to show off their skill.
The Roman Forum
This historical place to see in Rome is between Palatine Hill and Capitoline Hill. The Romans built it to be the place for social and political happenings.
It was also a market place, civic center, and business district. When Rome was at the height of its power and authority, this place to see in Rome was literally a hub.
Romans went there to transact business, handle law cases, pass bills, and worship their God. After the collapse of the Roman Empire, the Forum declined due to neglect.
Today, when you visit the Forum, what strikes you most is not only the magnificence of the structure, but also loneliness of great places gone to ruin.
Piazza Campidoglio or Capitoline Hill
This place to see in Rome was once the seat of power. There are still government activities that take place here today. Capitoline Hill is one of the seven hills in Rome.
It had one of the largest and most magnificent temples in all of Rome. Unfortunately, today, you can barely tell it was even there. The design you see now and the buildings around it were created by Michelangelo Buonarroti. He was asked to do this by the Pope at the time who wanted to showcase this hill as the symbol of a new Rome.
The Vatican
Regardless of religious affiliation, one must visit this place to see in Rome. Culturally, it has one of the most extensive collections of art and culture of Rome.
Here in the Vatican, which is the home of the Pope, and place of worship for all Catholics, you will be able to wonder at St. Peter’s Basilica, and the works of Michelangelo, including the Pieta. There are also the papal catacombs and the museums which have preserved Egyptian mummies.
The Sistine Chapel
The greatest work of Michelangelo for many can be found on the ceilings of this place to see in Rome. Here, you will see a summary of the bible, all in glorious preserved color. The sheer thought of what this artist did to complete the work still amazes everyone who goes here.
There are still so many other places to see in Rome that will not only amaze you but even leave you speechless. Some of these places are not just ancient buildings, or parks, but also in the small, narrow streets or Rome, where you will find a tiny shop full of the history and splendor of a once superpower city of the ancient world.
