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| Though in ruins, the Flavian Amphitheatre, now known as the Colosseum, still stands today (Photo credit: Wikipedia) |
By Preety Gupta
Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. It is home to several historical monuments some of which can be seen for free while others require cards and passes. Most of these ancient monuments are located in the city's historic centre and so there are several places that you can visit in a single day. Even if you don't have time for an in-depth look, you will find walking past them an incredible experience. Over the past few years, some of these monuments have been renovated to make them more user-friendly. Here are just some of the historical monuments that you may wish to see while in Rome.
The Colosseum
This huge amphitheatre in Rome needs no introduction. Built by Emperor Vespasian in AD 80 it had seating capacity of 55,000 people and was the scene of many gladiatorial battles and animal fights. Visit the monument and you will be able to see men dressed in gladiatorial costume walk between the Colosseum and the nearby Arch of Constantine, which was built in AD 315. Ticket lines can be very long so it is advisable to book online. You can also buy a combination ticket for the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum at the nearby entrance to the Palatine Hill. This ticket is valid for two days which means that you don't have to rush through all sites in one day.
The Pantheon
The Pantheon, or the temple of all the gods, was built by Emperor Hadrian between AD 118 to 125. In the early 7th century it was converted in a church; today it houses several tombs. The Pantheon is one of the best preserved ancient Roman buildings and the entrance to this monument is free. The building is surrounded by a lively piazza where you can sit and enjoy a pleasant drink.
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum comprises several monuments and buildings including ruined temples, arches and basilicas. During the ancient Roman period, it served as the ceremonial, legal and social centre. You can get a good view of the complex from Capitoline Hill behind the museums. You would need to buy an entrance ticket.
The Capitoline Hill
Set above the Roman Forum, Capitoline Hill housed the Temple of Jupiter and was the symbolic centre of Rome. Today it houses two museums, which are the oldest public museums in the world, Palazzo dei Conservatori, with art galleries, sculptures, and frescoes, and the Palazzo Nuovo, with Greek and Roman sculptures. From here, you can enjoy some of the best views of Rome.
Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona was originally built as a stadium in the first century for athletic contests and chariot races. Today, it is dotted with luxurious cafes and also houses three lavish Baroque fountains. It is believed that the famous ice-cream dessert, tartufo, originated here and you can still try it in the cafes.
Accommodation in Rome
Rome attracts visitors the year round from those who wish to splurge and those on a budget. There is an accommodation type to meet all requirements from private rel=nofollow [http://eitalyvillas.com]Italy villas to hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses. However, it is advisable to book your rental well in advance to get the best locations and best deals.
Preety is a travel writer with [http://www.eatsandretreats.com/]Eats & retreats a modern online magazine with unique travel articles, photo galleries and a selected portfolio of holiday villas and apartments featured by Web Perspective Ltd.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?5-Top-Historical-Monuments-in-Rome&id=7751305] 5 Top Historical Monuments in Rome
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