The Best Historical Sites in Rome

Almost all of the most famous landmarks and tourist attractions in Rome are historical buildings and places, which can make it quite confusing for visitors to decide which ones they should go and see. In this article, we’ll highlight the best ones to visit so that you can make the most of your time in the city. 

Colosseum 
The most famous landmark in Rome, the Colosseum highlights Rome’s most famous era, when the Roman Empire stretched across the entire Mediterranean. The first thing that strikes you is the size of it, it was the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built and is still the largest standing one today nearly 2000 years after it was built. Tours of the Colosseum take you through the first two levels, talking you through how it was built and what would’ve happened in each part you walk through. If you are lucky you may get to visit the Arena Floor, which would’ve been hidden underneath the area and housed the gladiators, animals and more. If you visit one place in Rome it should be the Colosseum. 

 

Roman Forum 
If the Colosseum is one of the most impressive architectural feats of Ancient Rome, then the Roman Forum gives tourists the best idea of what daily life would’ve been like for citizens of the city. The Forum was where lots of the important day-to-day tasks such as public meetings and law trials would’ve taken place. It would’ve also been filled with open-air markets and was the site of many large temples in the city. It is fascinating to walk around as you imagine what it would’ve looked like at its height. Tours often include, or you can pay extra, to also visit the Palatine and Capitoline hills where you can see the palaces of the emperors and much more. 

 

Pantheon 
The most complete ancient site in Rome, this is in part because it has been in constant use since it was built in 609AD. It started life as a Roman temple and was then used as a Catholic church. It has a typically Roman looking front with a large portico with 12 pillars. This then gives way to the rotunda which is the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. Even better, as a church, it is free to enter so you can easily enjoy this beautiful and spectacular building. It sits nicely in the Piazza della Rotunda near the famous Piazza Navona.

 

St Peter’s Basilica & Sistine Chapel

Taking a large step forward in time compared with the previous sites, we get to St Peter’s Basilica. This iconic church is one of four basilicas in Rome and is by far the most famous, with the balcony looking out at St Peter’s Square from which the pope often addresses and greets people. Opened in 1626 the famous church is the burial site for Saint Peter as well as a number of popes. A few minutes away is the famous Sistine Chapel, part of the Vatican Museums and in the official residence of the pope. This beautiful church is most well known for its frescoes, especially those on the ceiling that were painted by Michelangelo. Both of these beautiful places are well worth a visit and are very close so can easily be done together when in Vatican City.

 

Castel Sant Angelo 
A striking castle complex overlooking the Tiber, it was originally built by Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family but was then later used by the popes in the 14th century and converted into a castle and fortress. It is now a museum with 6 floors that covers the history of the castle and its place and use throughout the history of Rome. The roof terrace on the 5th floor offers beautiful 360-degree views across Rome which are some of the best in the city.  

 

We hope this has given you an idea of some of the best historical places to visit if you visit Rome. For more travel inspiration and destinations, read our blogs or take a look around our website and then give us a call on 01157843388. If you already know where you’re looking to book, call us, email enquiries@ct4ntravel.co.uk or fill in our contact form with what you’re looking for. Don't forget to follow us on social media to find out the next Destination of the Week and for all your holiday needs. If you've been to Rome, where was your favourite place? What was the best thing you did, or do you think we missed anything that you must do? Let us know in the comments or on social media, just click the buttons below which take you to our social pages