Some of the most popular tourist spots in the city consist of Rome’s famous monuments. Many of these monument were built thousands of years ago and are still standing the test of time.
The Colosseum
One of the best known landmarks in Rome is the Colosseum. This ancient site has been standing since 72 AD. At the time, Rome celebrated for 100 days to mark the completion of the building. The amphitheater could house up to 55,000 spectators. Those spectators saw everything from animal fights to horse races and gladiator battles. As one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, the Colosseum is open to tourists six days a week. Visitors can purchase tickets and get an informative tour of the site.
The Arch of Constantine
The Arch of Constantine is an ancient arch structure located at Via di S. Gregorio. The monument was built in 315 AD as an honor to the emperor Constantine after he waged a battle against Maxentius. The monument is actually comprised of materials taken from other ancient monuments that had previously been dedicated to the rulers Trajan and Hadrian. On the top of the monument the words “Constantine overcame his enemies by divine inspiration” are inscribed.
Palatine Hill
The first real city center in Rome was located at Palatine Hill, nearly 70 meters high above the city. Here, visitors will be able to see remains of the Roman structures in the Villa Farnese and the Ancient House of Tiberius as well as many staircases and gardens along the hill. If you like Roman mythology, this is the site where it is thought that Romulus and Remus were found as infants.
Mausoleum of Augustus
The Mausoleum of Augustus is the place where Augustus and his family are buried. Augustus broke a long standing sacred rule that burial was forbidden inside the city walls by building this tomb. Architectural buffs will want to explore this area because it has a basic form inspired by the Etruscan tumulus. The tomb is only open to tourists on weekends and you will have to purchase tickets to see it.
The Pantheon
Another one of Rome’s more popular monuments is the Pantheon. Originally built as a Roman temple, this is one of Rome’s ancient spiritual sites. Later on, it was consecrated as a Catholic church. The porch of the building is one of its more recognizable features. At one time, this entrance faced a large colonnade and courtyard, but at present it looks out on a small piazza. Inside you can step into the wide circular center of the temple with tall ancient columns all around. The center of the dome and the doors are the only places where light comes in, and as the sun moves during the day, the light casts deep shadows across the floor and walls to illuminate specific features.
These monuments are all a look back at ancient civilizations that at one time or another populated the city of Rome. No matter where you interests lie, the monuments of Rome are both entertaining and educational for the world traveler to see.
