The Ultimate Guide to Rome's Historic Landmarks

Last Updated: Jun 28, 2023
Reading Time: 21 minutes
By: Shaun

Rome has witnessed and influenced many events that have shaped the world we live in today. According to legend, Rome was founded in 753 BC by Romulus and Remus and became the capital of a powerful empire that ruled over most of Europe, Africa, and Asia. The eternal city, as it is also known, was also the centre of Christianity for centuries and today hosts the Vatican City, the smallest sovereign state in the world. Rome is also a city of art and culture, with countless masterpieces by artists such as Michelangelo, Raphael, Bernini, and Caravaggio.

You can explore the city for days, weeks, or even months and still discover new things every time. However, if you have limited time or want to focus on the most iconic landmarks, this guide is for you. We have selected 10 historic landmarks that represent different aspects of Rome’s history and culture.

These are the landmarks that we will cover in this guide:

• The Colosseum
• The Roman Forum
• The Trevi Fountain
• The Spanish Steps
• The Pantheon
• Piazza Navona
• St. Peter’s Basilica
• The Sistine Chapel
• Castel Sant’Angelo
• Villa Borghese

Are you ready to embark on a journey through time and space? Let’s start with one of the most famous landmarks in Rome: the Colosseum.

The Colosseum

Colosseum By Night | Image by Diliff on Wikimedia Commons

No landmark in Rome is more iconic than the Colosseum. This landmark is a massive amphitheatre that was built by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD and completed by his son Titus in 80 AD. It was used for gladiator fights, animal hunts, executions, dramas, and other spectacles that entertained up to 80,000 people at a time. It was also a symbol of Rome’s power and glory, as well as a place where emperors could display their generosity and popularity.

The best time to visit the Colosseum is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the crowds are smaller and the light is better for taking photos. You can also visit at night, when the Colosseum is illuminated and offers a different atmosphere. However, you will need to book a guided tour in advance to enter at night, as you cannot visit on your own.

The Colosseum has two levels of access: the ground level and the upper level. The ground level gives you a closer view of the arena, where you can imagine the gladiators and animals fighting for their lives. The upper level gives you a panoramic view of the whole structure as well as the surrounding landscape. You can also see some of the underground tunnels and chambers where the gladiators and animals were kept before the shows.

Interesting facts about The Colosseum

• The Colosseum was originally called the Flavian Amphitheatre, after the Flavian dynasty of emperors who built it. The name Colosseum comes from a colossal statue of Nero that stood nearby.
• The monument was damaged by earthquakes, fires, and vandalism over the centuries. It was also used as a quarry, a fortress, a convent, and a shelter for homeless people.
• It is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, along with other landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal.
• It is a symbol of peace and justice, as well as a reminder of the cruelty and violence of the past. It hosts events such as concerts, exhibitions, and ceremonies. It is also lit up in different colours to show solidarity with various causes or countries.
• The Colosseum has a special relationship with cats, who have lived there for centuries. They are protected by law and cared for by volunteers. You can see them roaming around or sleeping in the sun.

The Roman Forum

Roman Forum | Image by pascal OHLMANN on Pixabay

Close by to the Colosseum, one can visit The Roman Forum, which was the political, religious, and social centre of ancient Rome. It was where the most important buildings and monuments were located and where public speeches, trials, elections, ceremonies, and festivals took place. It was the heart of Rome’s public life and culture.

The Roman Forum has a lot to offer, but it can be overwhelming and confusing if you don’t know what you are looking at. That’s why we recommend you get a map, an audio guide, or a guided tour to help you navigate and understand the history and significance of each site. You can also download some apps or podcasts that provide information and stories about the Roman Forum.

Sites of interest at the Roman Forum

• The Temple of Saturn: This was one of the oldest and most important temples in Rome. It was dedicated to Saturn, the god of agriculture and time. It was also where the treasury of the Roman state was kept.
• The Arch of Septimius Severus: This was a triumphal arch that commemorated the victories of Emperor Septimius Severus and his sons over the Parthians, Arabs, and other enemies. It has three archways and is decorated with reliefs depicting scenes of war and conquest.
• The Curia: This was the meeting place of the Roman Senate, the most powerful political institution in Rome. It was where laws were passed, debates were held, and decisions were made. It was also where Julius Caesar was assassinated by a group of conspirators led by Brutus and Cassius.
• The Rostra: This was a platform where orators delivered speeches to the public. It was named after the rostra, or prows of ships, that were attached to it as trophies from naval battles. It was also where Mark Antony delivered his famous funeral speech for Julius Caesar, inciting the crowd to revolt against his assassins.
• The Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine: This was one of the largest and most impressive buildings in the Roman Forum. It was a civil court and a public hall that hosted various events and ceremonies. It was also where Constantine, the first Christian emperor, displayed his vision of the cross that inspired him to convert to Christianity.

Interesting facts about The Roman Forum

Palatine Hill | Image by Karelj on Wikimedia Commons

• The site was not always what it is today. It was originally a marshy area that was drained by the Etruscans and then developed by the Romans over the centuries. It reached its peak during the Imperial period but declined after the fall of Rome. It was then buried under rubble and dirt until it was excavated in the 18th and 19th centuries.
• The Roman Forum is not only a historic site but also a living one. It hosts events such as concerts, exhibitions, and reenactments. It is also a place where people gather to celebrate or protest various causes or occasions.
• It is part of a larger archaeological area that includes Palatine Hill and the Colosseum. You can buy a combined ticket that gives you access to all three sites and also allows you to skip the line at each entrance.

The Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain | Image by Ademar Gomes on Flickr

Another iconic landmark of Rome is none other than The Trevi Fountain. It was built by Nicola Salvi in 1762 and represents the theme of water and its abundance. It depicts Oceanus, the god of water, riding a chariot pulled by sea horses and tritons. It also shows various allegorical figures and animals related to water and its benefits.

The Trevi Fountain is not only a stunning sight but also a place where you can make a wish. According to legend, if you throw a coin into the fountain over your shoulder, you will return to Rome someday. If you throw two coins, you will find love in Rome. If you throw three coins, you will get married in Rome. The coins are collected every night and donated to charity.

Due to the popularity of the spot, the area surrounding the fountain is often crowded and noisy, so be careful of pickpockets. It is also forbidden to swim or drink from the fountain, as well as to damage or deface it. You can be fined or arrested if you break these rules.

Interesting facts about The Trevi Fountain

• The Trevi Fountain is the largest and most famous Baroque fountain in Rome. It is 26 metres high and 49 metres wide. It has over 30 sculptures and more than 100 jets of water.
• It is connected to an ancient aqueduct that was built by Agrippa in 19 BC to supply water to his baths. The name Trevi comes from Tre Vie, or Three Roads, that converged at the fountain.
• As you can expect, it has been featured in many movies, such as La Dolce Vita, Roman Holiday, and Three Coins in the Fountain. It has also inspired many songs, such as Arrivederci Roma and Fontana di Trevi.

The Spanish Steps

Spanish Steps | Image by Petra on Pixabay

The Spanish Steps were built by Francesco de Sanctis between 1723 and 1726 to connect the Piazza di Spagna at the bottom with the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. They have 135 steps that are divided into three sections by terraces and fountains. They are also decorated with flowers in the spring and summer.

The Spanish Steps are also a place where you can relax, socialise, or admire the surroundings. You can sit on the steps and watch the people and traffic go by. You can also see some of the landmarks that are visible from the steps, such as the Obelisk of Sallust, the Keats-Shelley House, and the Villa Medici.

Interesting facts about The Spanish Steps

• The steps are named after the Spanish Embassy that was located in Piazza di Spagna in the 17th century. They are also called Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti, after the church that stands at their top.
• Just like the Trevi Fountain, the steps are one of the most popular places for lovers in Rome. They have also been featured in many movies, such as Roman Holiday, The Talented Mr. Ripley, and To Rome with Love.
• They are around the steps and are also a place where you can find some of the most famous and expensive shops in Rome. You can shop for clothes, jewellery, shoes, or accessories from brands such as Prada, Gucci, Valentino, or Dolce & Gabbana.

The Pantheon

Pantheon | Image by krystianwin on Pixabay

The Pantheon is one of the most remarkable and well-preserved buildings in Rome. It was built by Emperor Hadrian in 125 AD as a temple dedicated to all the gods of Rome. It was later converted into a Christian church and a burial place for some of the most illustrious figures in Italian history, such as Raphael, Victor Emmanuel II, and Umberto I.

The Pantheon has a circular plan with a portico of 16 columns supporting a triangular pediment. The most striking feature of the Pantheon is its dome, which is the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. The dome has an oculus, or a circular opening, at its centre that allows natural light and rain to enter. The dome symbolises the connection between heaven and earth, as well as the perfection and harmony of the universe.

Interesting facts about The Pantheon

• The building is one of the oldest and most influential buildings in Western architecture. It inspired many other domes, such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the U.S. Capitol, and the Louvre.
• It attracts over 7 million visitors every year and is free to enter, making it one of the most visited monuments in Rome.
• The Pantheon has a special phenomenon that occurs on April 21st, the traditional date of Rome’s founding. On this day, at noon, the sun shines through the oculus and illuminates the entrance of the Pantheon. This is believed to be a sign of divine favour and protection for Rome.
• Just like the Trevi Fountain, The Pantheon has a similar legend that says that if you throw a coin into the fountain in front of it, you will return to Rome someday.

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona | Image by Jorge Franganillo on Flickr

Piazza Navona was built on the site of an ancient stadium that was used for athletic competitions and games. It preserves the shape and size of the stadium, which could hold up to 30,000 spectators. It was transformed into a public square in the 15th century and became a place where artists, performers, and vendors gathered.

Piazza Navona is a place where you can enjoy the beauty and charm of Rome, so make sure you respect the rules and regulations of the square, such as not feeding the pigeons, not littering, and not making noise.

Piazza Navona Main attractions

• The Fountain of the Four Rivers: This is the largest and most famous fountain in Piazza Navona. It was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1651 and represents the four major rivers of the world at that time: the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube, and the Rio de la Plata. Each river is personified by a statue and accompanied by animals and plants. The fountain also has an Egyptian obelisk at its centre that was brought from the Circus of Maxentius.
• The Fountain of Neptune: This is the fountain at the northern end of Piazza Navona. It was designed by Giacomo della Porta in 1574 and completed by Antonio Della Bitta and Gregorio Zappalà in 1878. It depicts Neptune, the god of the sea, fighting with an octopus and being surrounded by sea nymphs and tritons.
• The Fountain of the Moor: This is the fountain at the southern end of the piazza. It was also designed by Giacomo della Porta in 1575 and modified by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1653. It depicts a Moor, or an African man, holding a dolphin and being attacked by four tritons.
• The Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone: This is the baroque church that faces the Fountain of the Four Rivers. It was built by Francesco Borromini and Carlo Rainaldi between 1652 and 1672. It is dedicated to Saint Agnes, a young Christian martyr who was killed in a nearby stadium during the persecution of Diocletian. The church has a beautiful façade, a dome, and a bell tower. It also has a rich interior with paintings, sculptures, and relics.
• The Palazzo Pamphilj: This elegant palace occupies most of the western side of Piazza Navona. It was built by Girolamo Rainaldi between 1644 and 1650 for Pope Innocent X Pamphilj, who also commissioned the Fountain of the Four Rivers. The palace has a long balcony that overlooks the square and a gallery that hosts art exhibitions. It also houses the Brazilian Embassy and the Institute of Brazilian Studies.

Interesting facts about Piazza Navona

• The Piazza was originally called Circus Agonalis, or Competition Arena, because it was used for athletic games and competitions. The name was later corrupted to in agone, then to navone, and finally to navona.
• It is one of the most popular places for street artists, performers, and vendors in Rome. You can find painters, caricaturists, musicians, magicians, clowns, and more. You can also buy souvenirs, snacks, or drinks from various stalls.
• The square hosts some special events throughout the year, such as Christmas markets, carnival celebrations, concerts, and shows. One of the most famous events is La Befana, or Epiphany Eve, when children receive gifts and sweets from an old witch who flies on a broomstick.

St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica | Image by Peter Sampson on Flickr

St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest and most important church in Christendom and is located in Vatican City, the smallest sovereign state in the world. It is the seat of the Pope and the centre of Catholicism. It is also a masterpiece of art and architecture, with contributions from some of the most renowned artists in history, such as Michelangelo, Bramante, Bernini, and Maderno.

St. Peter’s Basilica is no small site and has a lot to offer. The following is a list of the main attractions that you must visit. Do keep in mind that as this is a religious site, you should dress modestly, be silent, and refrain from taking photos or videos inside.

St. Peter’s Basilica Main Attractions

• The Dome: This is the most prominent feature of St. Peter’s Basilica. It was designed by Michelangelo and completed by Giacomo della Porta and Domenico Fontana in 1590. It is 136 metres high and 42 metres in diameter. It has 16 windows that let natural light in and 16 ribs that support its structure. It also has a lantern at its top that serves as a ventilation system.
• The Altar: This is the focal point of St. Peter’s Basilica. It was designed by Bernini in 1656 and stands on the spot where Saint Peter, the first Pope and apostle of Jesus, was crucified upside down. It is made of bronze and has four spiral columns that support a canopy called a baldachin. It also has a dove-shaped window behind it that represents the Holy Spirit.
• The Pietà: This is one of the most famous sculptures in St. Peter’s Basilica. It was created by Michelangelo in 1499, when he was only 24 years old. It depicts Mary holding the dead body of Jesus after his crucifixion. It is made of marble and has remarkable realism and expression. It is also the only work that Michelangelo ever signed.
• The Vatican Museums: These are a complex of museums that house some of the most valuable and diverse collections of art and culture in the world. They include the Sistine Chapel, where you can admire the frescoes by Michelangelo; the Raphael Rooms, where you can see the paintings by Raphael; the Gallery of Maps, where you can see maps of Italy from the 16th century; the Gallery of Tapestries, where you can see tapestries from the 16th and 17th centuries; and many more.
• The Vatican Gardens: These are a green oasis in the heart of Vatican City. They cover about half of the territory and include fountains, statues, flowers, trees, and paths. They also offer a stunning view of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Dome. You can visit them by booking a guided tour or a train ride.

Interesting facts about St. Peter’s Basilica

• St. Peter’s Basilica is not the first church on this site. It was built over an earlier church that was built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century. The construction of the new basilica took over 120 years, from 1506 to 1626, and involved many architects, artists, and popes.
• The building is not only a church but also a museum and a tomb. It has over 10,000 square metres of mosaics, over 800 columns, over 300 statues, and over 100 tombs. It also has a crypt where you can see the remains of Saint Peter and other popes.
• The basilica is a place where you can witness some of the most important events and ceremonies of the Catholic Church, such as papal masses, blessings, canonizations, and funerals. You can also see the Pope himself every Wednesday at his general audience or every Sunday at his Angelus prayer.

The Sistine Chapel

Sistine Chapel | Image by Sistine Chapel on Pixabay

Another famous site in the Vatican City is the Sistine Chapel, famous for its magnificent chapels. It is part of the Vatican Museums and is where the cardinals gather to elect a new pope in a secret conclave. It is also a masterpiece of art and architecture, with frescoes by some of the most renowned artists in history, such as Michelangelo, Botticelli, Perugino, and Pinturicchio.

The Sistine Chapel has a rectangular plan with a barrel vaulted ceiling and six windows on each side. The most striking feature of the Sistine Chapel is its ceiling, which was painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. It depicts scenes from the Book of Genesis, such as The Creation of Adam, The Fall of Man, The Flood, and The Creation of Eve. It also has four large pendentives that depict the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel. The ceiling is considered one of the greatest artistic achievements of all time and a testament to Michelangelo’s genius and skill.

Another masterpiece of the Sistine Chapel is The Last Judgment, which was painted by Michelangelo on the altar wall between 1536 and 1541. It depicts the second coming of Christ and the final judgement of the souls of the dead. It is a dramatic and complex scene, with over 300 figures and various symbols and references. It also caused some controversy, as some critics considered it too violent and indecent.

The Sistine Chapel also has other frescoes that decorate its walls, such as The Life of Moses and The Life of Christ, which were painted by various artists between 1481 and 1483. These frescoes illustrate the parallelism between the Old and New Testaments and the continuity of God’s plan for humanity. They also have portraits of some popes and donors who commissioned them.

Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant'Angelo | Image by Thomas Wolf on Wikimedia Commons

The Castel Sant’Angelo is a fortress that was built by Emperor Hadrian in 139 AD as a mausoleum for himself and his family. It was later converted into a military stronghold, a papal residence, a prison, and a museum. It is also known as the Castle of the Holy Angel because of a legend that says that an angel appeared on its roof to announce the end of a plague in 590 AD. The castle is located just outside the Vatican City limits.

The site has five levels of access: the ground level, the first level, the second level, the third level, and the fourth level. The ground level gives you access to the courtyard, where you can see some ancient sculptures and inscriptions. The first level gives you access to the museum, where you can see some paintings, weapons, and furniture. The second level gives you access to the papal apartments, where you can see some frescoes, tapestries, and portraits. The third level gives you access to the prison cells, where you can see some graffiti and chains. The fourth level gives you access to the terrace, where you can see the statue of the angel and enjoy a panoramic view of Rome.

Interesting facts about Castel Sant’Angelo

• Castel Sant’Angelo was originally a cylindrical structure that had a garden on its top and a bronze statue of Hadrian on its peak. It also had a spiral ramp that led to the burial chambers inside. It was later modified and enlarged by various popes and emperors, who added walls, towers, bridges, and decorations.
• It is connected to the Vatican City by a secret passage called the Passetto di Borgo, or the Corridor of Borgo. It was used by some popes to escape danger or reach the castle in times of need. It was also used by some prisoners to escape from the castle or to communicate with the outside world.
• The building is considered one of the most haunted places in Rome. It is said that it is haunted by the ghosts of some of its former inhabitants, such as Hadrian, Beatrice Cenci, Giordano Bruno, and Benvenuto Cellini. It is also said that it is haunted by the angel who appeared on its roof, who sometimes plays his trumpet or moves his wings.

Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese | Image by Emanuele on Flickr

The Villa Borghese is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Rome. It was created by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the 17th century as his private residence and garden. It was later opened to the public and expanded by various popes and architects.

It covers an area of 80 hectares and includes fountains, statues, lakes, temples, villas, and museums. Below are its main attractions:

Villa Borghese Main Attractions

• The Galleria Borghese: This is one of the most famous and impressive art museums in Rome. It was built by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the 17th century to house his private collection of paintings, sculptures, and antiquities. It has works by artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini, Titian, Raphael, and Canova. It also has a beautiful garden and a terrace that overlooks the park.
• The Pincio Terrace: This is a panoramic terrace that offers a stunning view of Rome and its monuments. It was designed by Giuseppe Valadier in the 19th century and has a neoclassical style. It also has a clock tower, a water clock, and a sundial. It is a popular spot for taking photos and watching sunsets.
• The Bioparco: This is a zoo that was founded in 1911 and hosts over 1000 animals of different species. It aims to promote conservation, education, and research on wildlife and biodiversity. It also has playgrounds, cafes, and shops for children and families.
• The Casina di Raffaello: This is a small villa that was built in the 16th century and was used as a residence by Raphael and his pupils. It was later transformed into a children’s museum and library that offers various activities and workshops for kids. It also has a puppet theatre and a toy shop.
• The Temple of Asclepius: This is a small temple that was built in 1786 on an artificial island in the middle of a lake. It was dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine and healing. It was also used as a place where people could bathe in the water or drink from a fountain that was believed to have healing properties.

Conclusion

Rome is a city that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone who visits it. It is a city that combines history and culture, beauty and charm, tradition and innovation. It is a city that has something for everyone, from ancient ruins to modern art, from religious monuments to secular attractions.

In this guide, we have only covered 10 of the many historic landmarks in Rome, so this guide is far from exhaustive. There are many more landmarks that you can explore and discover in Rome, such as the Catacombs, the Baths of Caracalla, the Pyramid of Cestius, the Circus Maximus, Piazza Venezia, Piazza del Popolo, and the Mouth of Truth. We encourage you to do your own research and plan your own itinerary according to your preferences and interests.

We hope that you have a wonderful time in Rome. Arrivederci!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do I need to visit Rome and its landmarks?

This depends on your budget, time, and interests. However, we recommend at least three days to see the main landmarks and attractions in Rome. You can also extend your stay to five or seven days if you want to see more of Rome or visit some nearby places, such as Naples, Pompeii, Florence, or Venice.

How can I get around Rome and its landmarks?

The best way to get around Rome and its landmarks is by public transportation or by walking. You can use the metro, bus, tram, or taxi to reach different parts of the city. You can also walk from one landmark to another if they are close enough. However, you should avoid driving or renting a car in Rome, as the traffic is chaotic and parking is scarce and expensive.

How can I save money when visiting Rome and its landmarks?

There are many ways to save money when visiting Rome and its landmarks, such as buying a Roma Pass or an Omnia Card that gives you free or discounted access to various museums and attractions, or booking your tickets online, which can be cheaper than if you get them at the door. Some of these landmarks can also be accessed for free.