Exploring Rome

Author: Larry Austin

Author: Larry Austin

The origins of the city can be traced back to 753BC when, according to Roman folklore, a dispute between the twins Romulus and Remus, banished scions of the Royal family, led to Romulus killing Remus to establish the city of Rome. Later on the city became an important part of a vast empire and one of the most important and wealthiest cities in the western civilised world. Today Rome proudly displays its rich history through its various monuments, piazzas, churches and ruins of the ancient city which is now a part of everyday roman life. Multitudes of tourists are drawn towards Romes exquisite beauty that portrays greater part of modern history. Romes key attraction, or the monument best associated with Rome, is the Colosseum. Built in 80AD, this huge elliptical amphitheatre measured 188m by 156m and rose up to 48 metres. The Colosseum, when functioning, could accommodate up to 55,000 spectators to the entertainment provided by the Emperor. The entertainment which came in the form of games, display of exotic animals and fights between gladiators and animals was provided to establish the popularity of the Emperor. Much of this prestigious structure has fallen into ruins. But even today its imposing beauty attracts tourists from all over the world The sole symbol of the Vatican and Catholism, St. Peter's Basillica, is the world's largest church. Although the symbolic location of the basilica was established during the time of Emperor Constantine, the new basilica was built in the 16th century. With Michelangelo as a co-architect, this impressive structure has a 218 metre long nave and boasts the world's largest dome measuring 42 metres in diameter and reaching 138 metres in height. The interior of the basilica has been decorated by many famous artists and these include the Pieta by Michelangelo. The opulence of the interior can be viewed daily for free but visitors have to adhere to a strict dress code. The dome itself can be visited for a fee and it boasts magnificent views of Rome and Saint Peter's square. Apart from St Peters Basilica, Rome is home to many other basilicas. Out of which the patriarchal basilicas of St. John in Lateran, the former seat of the bishops residence, and Santa Maria Maggiore, which is the most ancient church in the world, are well worth a visit. The magnificent Pantheon stands proudly to remind the visitors to the city the greatness of the Roman Empire. Built more than 1800 years ago this remarkable piece of architecture is more than 43 metres in height and its dome is one of the largest in the world. Its eight columns in the front portico, each boasting a diameter of 1.5 metres and weighing 60 tons, were quarried in Egypt and transported to Rome on barges and vessels. Originally a temple built for pagan gods it was later converted to a church. Today the Pantheon holds the tombs of the several Italian kings as well as the tomb of the famous artist Raphael. Anyone visiting Rome will be amazed by its exquisite monuments. The Vatican, an independent state within Rome, is in itself a major highlight. Being the world centre of Catholicism, it portrays the rich religious history of the city. With an unbelievable number of places to visit and things to do, any visitor, no doubt, will wish to return to this exotic destination. Legend has it that a coin thrown in to the Trevi Fountain, one of the most beautiful fountains in Rome, will ensure another visit to the city.About the Author:

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