|
Rome, known as the Eternal City has attracted visitors for over 2000 years. It is one of the most magnificent and romantic cities in the world. Rome has an attractive mix of grandiose sights and bustling city life. Life is sweet - the cake is there for the eating. Italian designer shopping, smooth ice cream, frothy cappuccino and exquisite wines to name but a few things.
Where do you start to summarize the history of the Eternal City? A good date might be 21 April 753 B.C. The day when Romulus is said to have founded the city after murdering his twin brother Remus. During the following centuries Rome grew into a powerful empire whose peak was during the rule of Marcus Aurelius in 161-180 A.D. Just like the ancient city, Rome today is built on seven hills: Capitolino, Palatino, Quirinale, Viminale, Esquilino, Celio and Aventino. The central area is called Campo Marzio, named after the Roman god of war, and was the ancient army's training grounds. This is where many of the famous sights are located. Other well-known areas are Trastevere, on the other side of the River Tibern, and Monti. Little Pigneto is considered the most Roman neighbourhood.
Rome is more than a fascinating European capital city; it is a spectacular encyclopedia of living history. Rome is halfway down Italy's western coast, about 12 miles inland. It has been said that every road in Rome leads to eternity. The city is vast, though the historic center is quite small. The whole experience of Rome is so powerful as to be almost overwhelming at times. The best way to prepare for a visit is to study a little of the history of the region, to be as well rested as possible, and to arrange an itinerary that allows time to explore, rest, and reflect on the magnificence of it all.
There is a steady stream of spectacular festivals, exhibits and events for the whole family. Guided walking tours and bus tours for every energy level and budget provide great assistance in becoming acquainted with the past and present of this amazing city. Rome is a city in which it is recommended that driving and walking anywhere near areas of traffic be avoided if possible. The streets are extremely congested, and drivers are not considered to be responsible for watching out for pedestrians. The public transportation is excellent and offers the convenience of buses and subways at a nominal cost.
Whether the visitor is seeking a quiet, romantic café on the Campo de' Fiori; a fast food McDonald's with air conditioning on the Piazza della Repubblica or a cozy and intimate family operated restaurant with one or two exquisitely prepared selections of the day on the Piazza Santa Maria, there is great food for every taste.
The city boasts a wide variety of shopping opportunities. Spanish Square presents high fashion selections while the more modestly priced clothing is to be found on the Via del Corso and Via Tritone. North of Spanish Square are areas famous for their antique shops and art galleries. Porta Portese hosts a huge flea market every Sunday morning.
Rome does not go to sleep at sunset. Open air symphonic concerts, ballet and opera performances, live rock and jazz are all available.
Rome lays claim to two pro football teams, Roma and Lazio. Rivalry is fierce between them. Basketball is gaining in popularity. It is played in the Palazzo dello Sport designed for the 1960 Olympics.
The city's 300 fountains, its sculpture, its glorious panorama of ancient, medieval, Renaissance, baroque and modern art, music and architecture are all part of the reason that Pope Gregory XIVs remark in the 16th century is still true today. Pope Gregory said of the joys of exploring and discovering the city, "a lifetime is not enough."
|
|