Welcome to Rome: A Journey Through History, Art and Curiosities

Rome, the Eternal City, is one of the most fascinating and iconic tourist destinations in the world. With over 2,700 years of history, Rome is an open-air museum, a place where past and present blend together in a unique symbiosis. Every corner of the city tells a story: from the imposing architecture of the ancient Roman emperors, to the intricate details of the baroque churches, to the elegant cafés where today you can breathe la dolce vita.

If you are planning a trip to the Italian capital, prepare to be captivated by the beauty and timeless atmosphere of the city. In this article we will take you to discover Rome, its history, and the five unmissable places to visit, with some gems and curiosities that will make your experience even more special.

The History of Rome: From Myth to Modernity

Rome would not be Rome without its foundation myth. According to legend, the city was founded in 753 BC by Romulus, the first king of Rome. Romulus, along with his twin brother Remus, was the son of Mars, the god of war, and the vestal virgin Rhea Silvia. The two were abandoned on the banks of the Tiber, but were saved by a she-wolf who nursed and cared for them. Romulus then killed Remus in a dispute and became the first king of the new city, which took the name “Rome” in his honor.

The Finding of Romulus and Remus by Rubens

From its legendary founding, Rome grew rapidly, becoming the heart of one of the greatest empires in history. The Roman Empire dominated much of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East for centuries, bringing legal, political, and architectural innovations that still influence the modern world today.

Military conquests and ingenious infrastructure, such as roads and aqueducts, allowed Rome to expand and prosper. Architecture and art flourished, with majestic monuments that still stand as witnesses to the city’s glorious past.

With the decline of the Roman Empire, Rome entered a period of turmoil, with barbarian invasions and internal strife. However, the city maintained its central role, thanks to the growing influence of the Catholic Church. In the Middle Ages, Rome became the center of Christianity and the seat of the Papacy. The popes commissioned great works of art and architecture that helped give the city the appearance we know today.

Rome flourished again during the Renaissance, when artists such as Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bramante left their indelible mark on the city. St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and many other wonders are testament to this period of cultural rebirth. Later, with the advent of the Baroque, architects such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Francesco Borromini added a new layer of beauty to the city, with churches and piazzas that still capture the imagination of visitors today.

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel

The 5 Unmissable Places in Rome

Rome is full of wonders, but if you have little time available, there are five places that you absolutely cannot miss. These iconic places not only represent the thousand-year history of the city, but also offer breathtaking views and tell stories that continue to inspire visitors from all over the world.

1. The Colosseum: The Flavian Amphitheatre

Colosseum

The Colosseum is perhaps the most recognizable monument in Rome and one of the most famous in the world. This massive amphitheater, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, was built in 70-80 AD during the reign of the emperors Vespasian and Titus. Originally used for public spectacles such as gladiatorial combat, the Colosseum could accommodate up to 50,000 spectators.

Curiosity: A Symbol of Rebirth

In the Middle Ages, the Colosseum fell into disuse and was plundered for its building materials. Today, it is a symbol of Rome’s strength and resilience, as well as a monument that attracts millions of tourists each year. Don’t miss the opportunity to also visit the underground area of ​​the Colosseum, recently opened to the public, where you can see the ancient cages of gladiators and animals.

2. The Trevi Fountain: A Baroque Jewel

The Trevi Fountain is one of the most romantic corners of Rome. Built in the 18th century and designed by Nicola Salvi and completed by Giuseppe Pannini, this majestic baroque fountain represents Oceanus on a chariot pulled by seahorses. At 26 meters high and 49 meters wide, the Trevi Fountain is the largest in Rome.

Fun Fact: Flip a Coin and You’ll Come Back

According to tradition, if you throw a coin into the fountain, making sure to do it with your right hand over your left shoulder, you will surely return to Rome. Every year, the fountain collects about 1.5 million euros in coins, which are donated to charities.

Visiting the Trevi Fountain at night, when the lights illuminate it in a suggestive way, is an experience you will never forget.

Trevi Fountain

3. The Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica: Heart of Christianity

The Vatican City State is the smallest independent state in the world, but it houses one of humanity’s greatest treasures: St. Peter’s Basilica. This imposing church is the center of Catholicism and the seat of the Pope. Its dome, designed by Michelangelo, is visible from much of the city and is one of the most evocative panoramic points of Rome.

Curiosity: Michelangelo’s Unfinished Work

Michelangelo began work on the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, but was unable to complete it. It was completed by Giacomo Della Porta and Domenico Fontana. You can climb to the top of the dome for a breathtaking view of Rome.

In addition to the Basilica, visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, where you can admire one of the greatest masterpieces of art: the ceiling painted by Michelangelo.

St. Peter’s Basilica

4. The Roman Forum: The Heart of Ancient Rome

The Roman Forum was the nerve center of political, commercial and religious life in ancient Rome. Here, among temples, basilicas and columns, the daily activities of the empire took place. Walking among the ruins of the Forum is like taking a trip back in time, discovering an ancient Rome that still retains its charm today.

Curiosity: The Tomb of Romulus?

According to some scholars, the tomb of Rome’s founder, Romulus, could be located inside the Roman Forum. Although there is no certain proof, the myth of his burial still hovers over these ancient stones.

Don’t forget to visit the Arch of Titus and the Arch of Septimius Severus, two triumphal monuments that testify to the power and glory of the Roman Empire.

Roman Forum

5. The Pantheon: The Temple of All the Gods

The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome, and it is still a mystery how it was built with such architectural precision. Originally a temple dedicated to all the gods of ancient Rome, it is now a Christian basilica dedicated to Santa Maria ad Martyres. Its dome, with a diameter of 43.3 meters, is still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.

Curiosity: The Central Forum

The most fascinating feature of the Pantheon is its oculus, a circular opening in the center of the dome, which lets in natural light and, sometimes, rain. The oculus has no glass, and on a rainy day you can see the water gently falling inside the temple.

Pantheon

All you have to do is discover Rome with us!

Rome is a city that never ceases to amaze. From iconic monuments such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon, to small curiosities hidden in the alleys, every visit offers something new to discover. With the new TMC division of LFM, your trip to Rome will be a 360-degree experience, a complete immersion in the history, art and culture of one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Get ready to discover Rome with us, and remember: once you throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, you will always come back.