Monday, February 18, 2013

Rome, Italy


Places to visit:

1. Vatican City

Home of the Sistine Chapel, Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world. It was established as a city in 1929 and is ruled by the Bishop of Rome (The Pope). It includes the famous St. Peters Square, the basilica and obelisk. The Sistine Chapel is known for work by Pergino, Domenico Ghirlandaio and Botticelli and most famous the Last Judgement painting by Michelangelo. This impressive city is full of the most amazing architecture and is definitely one of the places I would visit!

2. The Colosseum

The build of the Colosseum dates back to AD80 when it was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian. This impressive amphitheatre was built to gain popularity of Emperor Vespasian through staging fights between Roman gladiators (usually men but sometimes women) and wild animals. These gladiators were usually criminals, slaves or prisoners; thousands were killed through these fights! Everyone came to watch whether you were poor, rich or even the Emperor.

Two thirds of the original amphitheatre has been destroyed due to earthquakes, fires and other exploitation issues however the remains still stands today and is still an impressive sight to see!

 3. Spanish steps

The Spanish steps were built between 1723 and 1726 and connects the square and the church together. It is also home to the Baracaccia fountain which was built in commemoration of the floods which occurred in 1598. The famous steps lead the way to prestigious boutiques like Gucci, Prada and Valentino. Perfect place to start your shopping!

 4. Trevi fountain

The Trevi fountain is the largest and most famous fountain in Rome! The fountain which we see today was designed by Nicola Salvi in 1732 and completed build in 1762. Recently, fashion house Fendi have decided to fund the restoration of the fountain; they have invested over £2m!

The figures of Neptun (God of Sea) alongside two Tritons symbolise the contrasting moods of the sea. Resembling a stage set, the fountain has captured attention of directors who have filmed parts of many films there. The fountain is also within walking distance of the Spanish steps!

Travelling around the city:

The main methods of travel include buses and the metro. Both run very frequently and are quite cheap to use. The metro is a very simple method to use; there are 2 main lines which run throughout the city. You can also hop in a taxi and get around the city or even rent a bike or scooter but I would definitely recommend walking! It is by far the best way to get around the city and sightsee to your heart’s content.

 
Recommended hotels:

Relais 6
iQ Hotel Roma

Hotel Giuliana
Hotel Re Di Roma

Hotel Lodi

 

Review:

I went to Rome a few years ago and it was by far one of the best holidays I have been on! Walking around the city was the best method to sightsee and helped burn off all those pizzas!! My favourite part of the trip was seeing the Colosseum; the whole construction may not be there but you get a real feel for what it was like being at the staged fights. Another favourite was visiting the Sistine Chapel and relaxing by the Trevi fountain. To be fair, I enjoyed the whole stay. If you’re looking for a relaxing city break then Rome is definitely the one to visit!

By: Aman

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