Top Eight Attractions in Rome

If you are planning on a trip to Rome, you will probably wish to make every minute count and include the most popular attractions. The problem is you may not know exactly what they are. Well, to help you get the most out of your vacation in Rome here is the list of the top eight attractions that visitors frequent repeatedly.

The first attraction is Piazza San Pietro or Saint Peter’s Square (although it’s actually an ellipse!). Strategically located in front of Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, it serves as an extended area where people convene to receive and view the Pope’s blessing every Sunday afternoon. Gian Lorenzo Bernini redesigned most of the sculpture and architecture of the San Pietro under the direction of Alexander VII. For accommodation, cozy Hotel S. Anna is a few blocks away.

The Pantheon is initially a temple built to all Roman Gods. Since the 7th century, it has been consecrated as a Christian church. The Greek temple with the 143 feet (in diameter and height) Roman dome makes it a landmark spiritual building. The summit of the dome is a 30-foot-wide oculus which serves as the source of light illuminating the inside of the temple. Considered to be one of the oldest infrastructures in the world, it is also Rome’s most preserved. Albergo Del Sole al Pantheon claims to be one of oldest accommodation inns in Rome. This 25-room hotel offers an exquisite view of the Pantheon.

The Colosseum or Flavian Amphitheater, is a must see for any history buff or gladiator fan. The giant sports stadium’s oval shape comprises four stories of varied architectural designs, 80 entrances and accommodates 50,000 spectators at a time. Ancient records tell that numerous gladiators, elephants, tigers, lions, giraffes, wild horses and hippopotamuses fought and were slaughtered here as part of entertainment, and executions. One of the two suites of the Hotel Celio has an overlooking view of the Colosseum from its terrace. The guest rooms, named after famous Italian artists, have high ceilings, walls and headboards frescoed with copies of famous Renaissance paintings and also have modern accommodations for the guests’ comfort.

The center of the Roman Empire, when it came to economics, politics and even the social life of the city was the Roman Forum. It can even be considered as one of the earliest outdoor malls where people gather to talk, buy and trade, or just hang around. Most of the major buildings, temples, pillars and arches are located here. The Hotel Forum is a 76-room hotel with a view of the Imperial Forums.

The Piazza di Spagna is a spectacular theatrical square that is used for international meetings, initially by the Spanish Embassy, and then later on by other foreign colonies. From the Piazza di Spagna to the Chiesa di Trinita dei Monti (Church of the Holy Trinity in the Hill), one will pass through the broad and graceful 137 travertine steps of the Scalinata dela Trinita dei Monti or the Spanish Steps. Dubbed as the Living Room of Rome, people flock the staircase not only to reach the Church above, but also to sit, relax and enjoy the breathtaking view of the area. There are several accommodations to choose from in and around Piazza di Spagna: from the pricey Hotel Hassler at the top of the Spanish Steps, to a small family-run Hotel Scalinata di Spagna (popular with honeymooners) to the ex-convent Hotel Georgina with their efficient and courteous service.

If you want to visit Rome again, you could wish for it at the Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain). With your back to the fountain, use your right hand to throw a coin over your left shoulder. The restored Neptune with his chariot and prancing horses decorates the back of Palazzo Poli. It’s a bit pricey but ideally, you can throw your coins from your bedroom window if you stay at Hotel Fontana, which makes staying right on top of Fontana di Trevi a reality.

Domus Aurea di Nerone Palace or Nero’s Golden House comprises a series of villas and Pavilions where guests are entertained whenever Nero threw parties, making it a party villa. It took over 15 years to restore the palace completely to its original beauty, where you can view the beautiful intricate design. The interior of Domus Aurea di Nerone is totally covered in gold, ivory, mother of pearl, and gemstones.

The oldest and one of the four major basilicas of Rome is the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano or Basilica of St. John Lateran. This cathedral church of Rome is the official ecclesiastical seat of the Pope. The Palazzo Apostolico Lateranense adjoins the right of the basilica while within the complex are cloisters, baptistry and Scala Santa (Holy Stairs).

These are only a few of the attractions that bring people from all over the world to visit Rome. You can make your own memories and find your favorite places to see and visit while you are here. Who knows, you may find some quiet and serene locations where you can just sit and bask in the beauty that Rome has to offer.

You can learn more about traveling to Italy at http://www.enit.it and http://www.governo.it. If you are looking for accommodation in Rome, there are lots of Rome accommodation options at http://www.accomline.com/hotel.reservations/Rome.htm.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticles.org

About the Author:
After graduating with a degree of B.S. Tourism, Elaine Muncal worked in a travel agency for 2 years giving advice and tips for people who wish to travel the world. She now shares her knowledge online by writing travel guides and tip and continues to explore the world for exotic destinations. You may visit www.accomline.com for more information about travel tips and accommodations.