First stop: the Coliseum. This amphitheater is by far the most famous monument in the city. It dates back to 80 A.D., had 76 numbered entry ways, marble seating for 80,000 spectators, retractable cloth sunscreens, and underground passageways. A perfect scene: gladiatorial fights, challenges against wild animals, and real naval battles. Your guide will explain its history in detail. Not too far away you will visit the Arch of Constantine, a tribute to the Christian emperor who defeated the pagan Massenzio in 306 A.D.
Once you walk through this doorway to the past, you will find yourself upon one of the most important archeological sites in the world, the Imperial Fora (Fori Imperiali). These were the centers of political, religious, and commercial life. The grand foundations, the columns, the arches have survived thousands of years. The Campidoglio, the smallest of the Seven Hills of Rome, is still the center of today’s city. Its homonymous piazza, masterfully redesigned by Michelangelo, can be reached by ascending the majestic Cordonata stairway. To the piazza’s side, is the unmissable ancient temple of Giunone (Juno), baptized into Christianity as Santa Maria in Aracoeli, a magnificent church accessed by a large stairway which has 122 steps on the right side and 124 on the left. Count them if you want!
The tour concludes in splendid Piazza Venezia, where you can admire the imposing monument dedicated to Vittorio Emanuele II, first king to Italy – who, since 1921, guards the tomb of the unknown soldier; on the other side of the piazza, Palazzo Venezia (Venezia Palace) offers the beauty of a fourth century palace.
At the end of your tour you’ll deserve some relax. The beautiful terrace atop the Musei Capitolini (Capitoline Museums) has an amazing view and is a great compliment to a refreshing aperitif.
