Palatino (Palatine Hill), Rome

Palatino (Palatine Hill), Rome (must see)

Palatine Hill, or Palatino, is one of Rome's seven hills and is steeped in mythology and history. As the site where Rome is traditionally believed to have been founded, Palatine Hill holds a unique place in the city's rich historical tapestry.

According to legend, it was on this hill that the twins Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome, were discovered by a she-wolf who raised them. When they grew up, the twins set out to build a city of their own. While Remus wanted to build it on Aventine Hill, Romulus had his mind set firmly on Palatine Hill. The brothers argued fiercely, and during the fight, Romulus killed Remus. He went on to build the city in 753 BC, calling it Rome, and reigned there as a king.

Overlooking the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus, Palatine Hill became the desirable location for the homes of Rome's wealthiest citizens during the Republic era. During the Imperial era, it transformed into an exclusive residential area for the emperors, starting with Augustus and continuing with Tiberius, Nero, and Domitian, who built the impressive Domitian's Palace.

Today, Palatine Hill is an extensive archaeological site where visitors can explore the ruins of the grand palaces, gardens, and buildings that once stood there. Highlights include the House of Augustus and the House of Livia, which contain well-preserved frescoes, and the Palatine Museum, which showcases artifacts found on the site and provides a deeper understanding of its history.

From its lush gardens and panoramic views of the city to the striking ruins of Rome's glorious past, Palatine Hill offers a journey through the centuries. It is a must-visit spot on any Rome itinerary.

Tip:
With "Super" tickets, you gain entry to numerous attractions on the Hill, and you have the option to choose a specific site to visit. Additionally, access to the Roman Forum and the Colosseum is included. Before entering, it's advisable to grab water and snacks since locating vending machines can be challenging, and the ascent up the main hill can be tiring on an empty stomach. It's also recommended to bring a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear, as the paths and steps can be steep or uneven.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Rome. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Palatino (Palatine Hill) on Map

Sight Name: Palatino (Palatine Hill)
Sight Location: Rome, Italy (See walking tours in Rome)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Rome, Italy

Create Your Own Walk in Rome

Create Your Own Walk in Rome

Creating your own self-guided walk in Rome is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Holy Sites Walking Tour

Holy Sites Walking Tour

As the cradle of the Catholic Church, one of the world's largest organizations, Rome has a large number of valuable, sacred places of worship. Crowded with architectural splendors from different periods of time, each of its churches and basilicas represent a significant part of culture and history.

Take this self-guided walking tour to discover Rome's magnificent religious heritage,...  view more

Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 6.9 Km or 4.3 Miles
Hidden Art Treasures in Rome

Hidden Art Treasures in Rome

Rome is one of the world's top living museums, replete with some of the most iconic pieces of art on the face of the planet. Famous artists, such as Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael, Bernini, to mention but a few, had lived and worked here and left indelible marks in the city.

Needless to say that the abundance of masterpieces makes Rome crowded with tourists anxious to see them, causing...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
Food Tasting Walking Tour

Food Tasting Walking Tour

Whether it’s a long lunch or a stop-off for an ice cream on an evening stroll, eating in Rome is a very social activity. Culinary traditions run deep here, and it may well be one of Italy’s most pleasurable cities in which to eat. Deli shops, prosciutterias, pizzerias, fornos (bakeries) and caffès are also very popular and offer a great alternative to a restaurant meal.

On this...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Rome Introduction Walking Tour I

Rome Introduction Walking Tour I

Legend has it that Rome was founded in 753 BC by twin brothers Romulus and Remus who were raised by a she-wolf. However, the pair argued about who had the support of the gods, and Romulus ended up killing Remus in a fight on what became Palatine Hill. Thus, Romulus named the city after himself and declared himself as king.

In a slightly less glorious account, Rome actually began as an Iron Age...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
EUR Sightseeing Walking Tour

EUR Sightseeing Walking Tour

The Esposizione Universale di Roma (EUR), located in the southern suburb of Rome, was originally constructed for an international exhibition that was planned by Mussolini as a grand celebration of Fascist Italy. However, due to the outbreak of World War II, the exhibition never took place. The architecture of EUR was designed to glorify Fascism and showcases a distinct style that sets it apart...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Vatican Walking Tour

Vatican Walking Tour

Consisting of a walled enclave within the city of Rome, the Vatican is the world’s smallest sovereign state, as well as a symbol (and headquarters) of the Roman Catholic faith. Although only 44 hectares in surface, one is amazed by the vastness of this place and the sheer size of everything. When gazing around in all directions, you realize how much can be achieved by people working in faith for...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles

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