Rome

Rome, Italy, was founded approximately 2,800 years ago and since then it has been filled with an expansive and dramatic history.

Located in the Lazio region of Italy in the central west, the mythical foundation of Rome was in 753 BC by the famous Romulus. But modern historians claim that it actually began in 625 BC.

Rome climate

The climate of Rome is pleasing for most of the year. In summer it gets very hot and often stays above 30 degrees Celsius.

Springtime in Rome is the loveliest season with clear and warm days, although it can equally encounter rain as well. Winter is mild and experiences fresh, sunny days.

Rome history

It wasn't until 510 BC that Rome became a republic and after its downfall, Octavian ruled the Roman Empire from 31 BC. Rome's Imperial period then began from 27 BC until 565 AD.

Modern Rome existed from the 15th Century, which was the period of Medieval Rome, Renaissance Rome - the period when art and culture flourished - and also the time that Rome became the seat for the Roman Catholic Church.

Rome attractions

Today, the history of Rome still exists in the form of its glorious architecture, monuments and art in its breathtaking museums.

The Colosseum and the Pantheon

When in Rome, as they say, top attractions to visit include the Colosseum. The Colloseum is one of Rome's most supreme works of design and architecture. Built by 80 AD, the Colloseum was used for gladiator contests, public events and theatre.

Later used for practical purposes, it now stands as an example of Rome's engineering finesse and rich history.

Another monumental building is the Pantheon that is visited from around the globe. It was built as the temple to Ancient Rome's gods - originally built in 27 BC.

The Roman Forum

You'll also love to visit the Roman Forum for insight into Rome's legacy.

One of the most significant Roman structures, this is the site where the Roman Republic began and operated from in search of justice. It was also the centre for the Roman Empire after the Republic's fall.

The Fontana di Trevi

The Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain), the largest Baroque fountain in Rome is also a site worth seeing and is located in the Trevi rione in Rome, Italy.

An Aqua Vergine - an aqueduct supplying pure drinking water to Rome - its construction began in 1453 and it wasn't until 1762 that the architectural marvel was finished.

The Musei Vaticani

Your eyes will delight in a visit to the awe-inspiring Musei Vaticani (Vatican Museums).

It began as a group of sculptures collected by Pope Julius II in the early 16th Century. The sculptures now exist as the Cortile Ottagio.

The Vatican Museums are divided into the Museums and the Vatican Palaces section, and include the beautiful Raphael Rooms, the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo's famous Last 'Judgement'.

Other top Rome attractions

Other exciting things to do in Rome include soaking up the ambience at one of Rome's city square, Piazza Navona and wandering through the narrow cobbled streets and medieval houses of Trastevere, rione (district) XIII.