Rome

No trip to Italy would be complete without a stop in it’s capital.  So logically it is the best place to start – especially if you are pressed for time.  The majority of it’s sites are located outdoors, and as long as you have cooperation from mother nature you could have a great time just taking in the outdoor locations.  With only a day or two this is how I would approach the Eternal City.

The best place to start your day has to be the…

Colosseum

The most iconic of all sites you will see not only in Rome but in all of Europe.  Most

recently brought to life in the Russell Crowe film Gladiator, The Colosseum, official called the Flavian Amphitheatre, was completed in the 80′s A.D. by Emperor Domitian.  Like to today’s sports stadiums, the 50,000 seater was a gathering place for spectators and participants alike – the only difference being that more than likely failure resulted in death and not simply heart ache.

If you are limited on time or funds for that matter I would not suggest entering the Colosseum itself.  Most of the glory can be felt from circling the huge structure several times.

Once you have had your fill of the Colosseum work your way around to the side facing the…

Roman Forum

Before you enter the ancient ruins take a moment to examine the Arch of Constantine just a few steps from the Colosseum.  This 3rd Century arch was erected to celebrate one of Emperor Constantine’s, the first ‘Christian’ Emperor, victories.  Although the sculptures are not among the greatest, demonstrating the slight decline in Roman artistry of the 3rd Century it is still a magnificent sight to see.

 

From the Arch of Constantine work your way to the Roman Forum.  This was the center of Roman politics and culture.  Far more interesting than the Colosseum if one takes the time to study some of it’s history.

Some of the remains require some imagination, while others provide a clear view of the ancient Roman center.

Although I am not a fan of tours (I would much rather discover things on my own), this is a place where one of the audio guides could come in handy.  They are available near the Arch of Titus.  Whether you choose to rent one or not be sure to stop by and take notice of the Temple of Julius Caesar, the spot where Julius Caesar was cremated and Marc Antony gave his eulogy.

When you exit the Forum you will find yourself near…

Piazza del Campidoglio

Designed by Michelangelo and containing the Capitoline Museum it provides a wonderful view of the Roman Forum from above, a wonderful photo opportunity.  In the center of the square you will find an exact copy of the Statue of Marcus Aurelius.

Piazza Venezia

Disliked by many Roman’s today mainly due to the ‘Wedding Cake’ officially known as the Vittorio Emanuele Monument.  The square was designed by Mussolini and used to greet the people of Rome.  Today it is more of a giant traffic circle – but also double as a good meeting place if you split up with your party.

From Piazza Venezia make your way to…

The Trevi Fountain

Easy to miss if you are not looking for it, tucked away in a small piazza is the Trevi Fountain.  Unless you arrive early in the day the fountain and the surrounding piazza is packed with tourist.  But if you allow yourself to get somewhat lost in the beauty of the fountain you will be able to envision yourself standing before this great fountain when it was first completed in 1762.

Today it is a huge piggy bank filled with the coins from the thousands of tourists that come to visit it each year.  Custom suggests that you  tossing the coin over your shoulder into the fountain will ensure that you will return to Rome.

The Trevi Fountain has featured in a few films, including Roman Holiday staring Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn, but none more legendary than the iconic scene found in Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita.

From the Trevi Fountain work your way through the narrow street towards…

The Spanish Steps

The 138 step monument was complete in 1725.  Climbing the steps gives you a nice view of the city.  Before you climb take a look at the building on your right, at the base of the steps and you will find the house in which English poet John Keats both lived and died, and currently functions as a museum in his honour.

The Spanish Steps offers you a moment to grab a drink, or something to eat, and of course a photo opportunity.