By Melissa Voelker
Sightseeing in Rome, Italy
Rome, Italy is a city steeped in history, which can be seen in the abundance of historical landmarks and ruins throughout. From the ancient Colosseum where gladiators once fought, to the Arch of Constantine that marks a great war time victory, to the Sistine Chapel which stands as a monument to art and religion, there is something for every history buff and tourist to see and admire in this Italian metropolis.
The Arch of Constantine
Commissioned in 312 AD, this giant stone Triumphal Arch was built to commemorate the victory of Constantine over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge. It is a famous landmark of Rome, and has appeared in many movies and TV shows that filmed in the city. It is located next to the Colosseum, so you can easily visit both structures on the same day. Viewing the Arch of Constantine is free.
Arch of Constantine
Via San Gregorio
Foro Romano, 00184 Rome
The Colosseum
This immense, four-story structure was originally called the Flavian Amphitheater, and once was home to gladiatorial events as well as other forms of ancient entertainment. It is located next to the Arch of Constantine as well as nearby the Parco di Triano, and aside from being a big tourist attraction, also hosts regular events such as musical concerts (which take place just outside). It costs around $20 to see the interior of the Colosseum, which is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Tickets can be purchased either at the main box office or ticket booths around town (as of 2009). Special package deals may be available that allow you to purchase a ticket to the Colosseum as well as other landmarks around the city.
The Colosseum
Piazza del Colosseo
I-00186, Rome
The Pantheon
Not only is the Pantheon the oldest large-scale dome in Rome, it is also the largest brick dome in the history of architecture. Once a home temple for all of the gods in Roman mythology, now this structure stands as a marvel of ancient building techniques and a reminder of the Rome of ancient times. It is open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. It is closed on some of the major holidays. Admission is free.
The Pantheon
Piazza del Rotonda
00186 Rome
The Sistine Chapel
As part of the Vatican Museums, this structure is also one of the most well-recognized buildings in the world. While famous artists such as Botticelli, Perugino and Ghirlandalo all worked on the great paintings that grace the Chapel walls, it is the mural done on the ceiling by Michelangelo that is the most well-known. Bring binoculars with you on your visit so that you can view this ceiling masterpiece. Photography is not allowed (especially flash photography), so leave your cameras in your bags. Admission costs around $17 normally to enter the Sistine Chapel, though it is free on the last Sunday of the month (as of 2009). During the busy season (March through October) visitors are allowed inside from 8:45 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8:45 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. on Saturdays and the last Sunday of the month. Hours may differ during the rest of the year.
The Sistine Chapel
Viale Vaticano
Vatican Palace, Rome
About the Author:
Melissa Voelker has been a professional writer since 2002. She works full time at a TV station in the commercial traffic department and also writes for Paperbackreader.com and Pinkraygun.com. Her articles have appeared in "Listen," "The Spokesman Review" and "Freepress Houston."
Photo Credits:
aviewoncities.org
