You've surely heard the old phrase that a lifetime is not enough to visit Rome. We could all go on 1,000 "tours of a lifetime," discover extraordinary creative and cultural experiences, and still, just begin to scratch the surface of what Rome has to offer in terms of art and architecture.
Rome's reputation as the "Eternal City" is so well-deserved. For instance, several towns have made claims to be the new Rome over the years (Constantinople or modern Istanbul and Moscow are two examples). Rome itself, though, clearly has the greatest claim to the remnants of old Rome.
Not simply the legacy of ancient Rome, but also that of papal and Renaissance Rome, have left a significant mark on the globe. The city's incredible art and architecture will give you a never-ending list of things to do in Rome.
So let's start!
- Basilica Of St. John Lateran
No other sacred location in Rome could compare to the Basilica of St. John Lateran before St. Peter's and the Vatican City. In actuality, according to historian Lex Bosman, this is the oldest cathedral in existence.
The Bishop of Rome continues to reside in this basilica, which serves as Rome's principal cathedral (aka the pope). You would be correct in thinking that the popes reside at the Vatican. The pope still conducts an annual ceremony here as his official seat, hence this cathedral is still significant.
- Pyramid of Caius Cestius
Does Rome have a pyramid? Indeed, the city has a modest tomb that was modeled after those in Egypt, which is across the Mediterranean. We don't know much about Caius Cestius, a Roman magistrate from the first century BC, according to scholar George Sullivan.
Caius Cestius made sure, however, that we would never forget his tomb. Caius Cestius' inscription, which is embedded in the Aurelian Wall next to the Porta San Paolo, was probably inspired by the Romans' obsession with Cleopatra and everything Egyptian.
- Mouth of Truth
Some individuals think this is only a tourist trap. Yet Rome's greatest artistic and architectural treasures are the area around the so-called Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) and its surroundings. The Mouth of Truth is what, then?
The history of this bearded face cut into a marble disc has long been a topic of controversy among academics. John Fort says that the majority now think it's probably an old manhole cover or a piece of a fountain, nevertheless. Much of its notoriety stems from the fable that anyone who has the guts to utter a falsehood would have their lips sealed shut by a hand placed inside of them.
- Maxxi
If Renaissance and Baroque art and historic ruins aren't your things, you might believe you're in the wrong city. Rome, however, is home to several museums dedicated to modern and contemporary art. The MAXXI comes in first place. When jotting down things to do in Rome, Maxxi has to be on top of your list.
The MAXXI or National Museum of 21st Century Arts, which exhibits works by Italian and foreign artists, was finished in 2009. In general, exhibition venues provide a lot of participatory and immersive activities.
- Tempietto Di Bramante
The Tempietto is a neglected location in Trastevere, a district rich with genuine Roman experiences (little temple). It is located in the Montorio Church of San Pietro's courtyard. The Tempietto was created by architect Donato Bramante in the early 1500s.
One of Rome's finest displays of Renaissance art and architecture is the Tempietto. Likewise, early Christian martyria—chapels constructed on the site of a saint's martyrdom—are where Bramante drew inspiration, according to art historian Jack Freiberg.
At this time of the year, Rome Tours are excellent for going with family and friends.
