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Rome Places of Interest Print E-mail

Rome is probably the richest city in the world in terms of architecture, historical heritage and monuments. The Coliseum is one of if seats was famously used for gladiator battles between men and beasts as a form of entertainment for the aristocracy and the emperor. Rome is famous for its beautiful fountains, the most famous of all is certainly the Trevi Fountain, which is highly symbolic and is appreciated not only for the never stopping water flow and the Baroque architecture, but also for the legend according to which anybody who throws a coin into the fountain will return to Rome.

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The Coliseum

Saint Peter Basilica in the Vatican, delimited by 284 columns set in 4 rows and a central aisle of 218 metres is truly impressive. Its dome, designed by Michelangelo, is the largest in the world.
The Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s masterpiece ceiling must not be missed. The Pantheon is the best preserved Roman ancient building that was initially built like a Roman Temple and then consecrated as a Catholic Church at later date. It has a hemispheric dome with the opening at the top being the only source of light.
Rome has some of the most beautiful squares in the world, Piazza Navona, Piazza del Popolo and Piazza del Campidoglio, which, designed by Michelangelo, was once a sacred place while today is the see of the Town Hall. Piazza di Spagna (The Spanish Steps) is one of the most enchanting examples of Baroque architecture. The steps built in the 18th century by Francesco de Sanctis consist of twelve flights of different width leading up to the church of Trinita’ dei Monti dating back to 1503.

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Caracalla Baths

Other interesting places are the Caracalla Baths, some of the better preserved ancient thermal baths, and Castel Sant’Angelo that was originally built by the emperor Adriano and is particularly famous for the long tunnel that links it with the Vatican. The tunnel was built in 1277 as an escape route for the Pope in case of danger. The dungeons, which are still open to visitors, were terrible for their size and accessibility.

 
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