The Spanish Steps, a monumental stairway of 135 steps, holds the distinction of being the longest and widest in Europe. The steps link Spanish Square, at the base, with the Trinity of the Mountains Square at the top.

The stairway was completed under Pope Clement XI in 1717, deriving its name from the nearby Spanish Embassy to the Holy See. Financed in part by a French diplomat, it features Baroque elements, inspired by garden stairs, and incorporates symbolic decorations such as the Bourbon heraldic lily flowers and papal eagles.

As a cultural and seasonal hub hosting public events such as Christmas cribs, spring azalea displays, and a flower market, the Spanish Steps have captivated artists and people of letters since the 18th century. Among them was the renowned English poet, John Keats, who lived and died practically next door. His house, at the base of the steps (located to the right, if you face the stairs), is now a museum.

Other nearby landmarks include the Ferrari di Valbona Palace, redesigned in 1936, and Babington's tea room, a resilient establishment that has withstood two world wars and numerous adversities, ultimately becoming a beloved tourist attraction.

The steps' cinematic appeal also made them a backdrop for numerous films, including the Hollywood blockbuster “Roman Holiday” made in 1953, starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. In the scene where Joe Bradley, played by Peck, meets Princess Ann, played by Hepburn, she sits on the steps, enjoying the view and eating ice cream. Fresh after the haircut, the princess takes compliments for her new look and makes up a story that she has run away from school. She accepts his proposal to spend the day together before she returns, and thus the Roman Holiday story begins!

Other filmmakers also made a mark on the steps, such as “The Talented Mr. Ripley” movie with Matt Damon, shot in 1999, and “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One,” featuring Tom Cruise, which premiered at the steps on June 19, 2023.

Consequently, the Spanish Steps became a magnet for aspiring models, affluent Romans, international travelers, and people from all walks of life. The tradition of gathering here is deeply ingrained in the locals and visitors alike. Today, the steps are protected by strict regulations against loitering, eating, or damaging, with heavy fines introduced to maintain decorum.

Tip:
The staircase offers picturesque views of Rome from its pinnacle, particularly at sunset-a truly unbeatable sight!
The afternoon and late hours are the best for visiting, so to avoid the heat of the day.
Alongside tourist activities such as carriage rides, you'll find nearby an array of shops and bars worth exploring.

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, drawing visitors to the eponymous Trevi Square all day long. Surprisingly, the fountain was not initially built in the heart of the city; instead, the city grew around it. Its name derives from the Latin word "trivium," which means “three streets,” as it sits at the junction of three streets: De Crocicchi, Poli, and Delle Muratte.

The fountain’s history dates back to 1629 when Pope Urban VIII commissioned Gian Lorenzo Bernini to redesign it, though his plans were never realized. Later, Pope Clement XII organized a competition in 1730, leading to Nicola Salvi's selection for the project, who incorporated the fountain into the rear of the Poli Palace. Salvi passed away before its completion. Giuseppe Pannini and other artists finalized the work in 1762.

Measuring over 26 meters in height and 49 meters in width, it is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome.

The Trevi Fountain features a Corinthian façade and bas-reliefs depicting the origins of the Acqua Vergine aqueduct, constructed in 19 BC. According to legend, a virgin guided Roman engineers to the aqueduct’s source, an event depicted in the fountain’s bas-reliefs. The aqueduct, which survived the Gothic invasions and was restored during the Middle Ages, still supplies water to the fountain today.

At the heart of the fountain is Oceanus, depicted riding a shell-shaped chariot drawn by two horses and guided by Tritons. The horses symbolize the sea’s contrasting moods-calm and turbulent. Flanking Oceanus are the statues of Abundance and Salubrity, representing prosperity and health. The symmetrical Rococo design combines dynamic artistry with Baroque grandeur, reflecting 18th-century European trends.

The Trevi Fountain is also known for the tradition of tossing coins, which promises a return to Rome. Popularized by the 1954 Hollywood film "Three Coins in the Fountain," visitors toss coins over their left shoulder with their right hand, generating daily about €3,000. This money, collected by municipal authorities, is donated to charity.

Celebrated in films like Roman Holiday and La Dolce Vita, the Trevi Fountain’s global fame is further evidenced by replicas worldwide. Access to the fountain is now limited to 400 visitors at a time, ensuring a more enjoyable visit to this timeless masterpiece. Surrounding the fountain are charming shops, restaurants, and gelaterias, making it a delightful spot to soak in Rome’s vibrant atmosphere.

Tip:
The fountain holds particular allure at night, especially after 10 pm when it is beautifully illuminated and the crowds dissipate, allowing you to enjoy the site almost exclusively.

The Colosseum, Rome’s iconic elliptical amphitheater, is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, covering 24,000 square meters. Constructed between 69 and 80 AD by the Flavian dynasty, it was initially called the Flavian Amphitheater. Its modern name stems from the Colossus of Nero statue that once stood nearby, with the term "Colosseum" emerging during the medieval period.

Built on the land reclaimed from Emperor Nero’s landscaped Domus Aurea complex after the Great Fire of 64 AD, the Colosseum represented a gift to the Roman people under Emperor Vespasian. It was constructed using travertine, tuff, and concrete and was funded by spoils from the Jewish War. The latter, fought in 70 AD, led to the Siege of Jerusalem and brought back numerous prisoners who largely contributed to the massive workforce needed for the construction. The amphitheater comprised four tiers that could hold between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators at a time. Its free-standing structure features three architectural orders – Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.

The lowest tier was for the emperor and the royal family, the two middle ones were for the noble Romans and members of government, while the highest tier was for the ordinary citizens. The elaborate system included 80 entrances, passageways for crowd control, and numbered pottery tickets for seating. Admission was free and the main sponsor was the emperor himself.

The Colosseum hosted gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and mythological reenactments. Events often featured exotic animals imported from Africa and the Middle East. Emperor Trajan's games, for example, involved over 11,000 animals and 10,000 gladiators over 123 days! The below-ground passages were used to bring men and animals into the arena, which was separated from the audience by a ditch. Occasionally, it was reportedly even flooded for naval battles. Executions were common during intervals, with the condemned facing wild beasts or acting out tragic myths.

During the medieval period, the Colosseum served as a fortress and even a stone quarry. Passers-by habitually chipped off pieces of it for souvenirs which, together with some natural causes like earthquakes, led to its partial destruction.

Despite popular belief that the early Christians were martyred here in numbers, evidence suggests that most executions occurred elsewhere. By the 17th century, the Colosseum became recognized as a sacred site. Today, it hosts the Pope’s Good Friday “Way of the Cross” procession.

Only the north side of the building, as well as the underground passages, have survived intact. The arena floor is totally gone. Inside the Colosseum, there's a historical exhibition with both permanent and changing displays.

Tips:
Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid long queues and heat. The ground and first floors are open to visitors without a special ticket, while the subterranean part and the third floor are accessed on pre-booked tours only. Opt for a guided tour to skip lines and access the Forum area. Alternatively, buy tickets in advance or at the Roman Forum. Enhance your experience with an audio guide for detailed historical insights.

The Roman Forum, once the pulsating heart of ancient Rome's public life, evolved from a simple marketplace around 500 BC into the epicenter of Roman political, social, and religious activity. Known as the Forum Magnum, it became a hub for triumphal processions, public speeches, elections, criminal trials, gladiatorial matches, and commerce. Statues and monuments celebrating Roman leaders solidified its status as one of history’s most significant meeting places.

Initially featuring early structures like the Regia (a royal residence) and the Temple of Vesta, the Forum developed into a formal assembly area called the Comitium, where the Senate and government convened. Over centuries, temples, tribunals, and public buildings, such as the Senate House and the Temple of Saturn, transformed the Forum into a multifunctional hub. The Basilica Aemilia, built in 179 BC, expanded judicial activities, while Julius Caesar’s enhancements, including the Basilica Julia and Curia Julia, underscored its role as a center for politics, commerce, and religion.

Despite its prominence, the Forum’s importance began to decline with the emergence of grander structures, such as Trajan's Forum and the Basilica Ulpia, to the north. Unlike the more planned Imperial Forums, the Roman Forum grew organically, reflecting a mix of architectural styles across periods. Constantine the Great’s construction of the Maxentius Basilica in 312 AD marked its final significant addition, temporarily restoring its political centrality. However, the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century AD led to the Forum's destruction and decline.

Today, the Roman Forum is a sprawling ruin but remains a priceless historical treasure. Though reduced to crumbling remains, it continues to captivate visitors, drawing nearly five million annually. Highlights of the site include the Sacred Street, the Arch of Titus, and remnants of iconic buildings like the Temple of Castor and Pollux.

The Pantheon is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, renowned for its architectural brilliance. Originally a Roman temple, its name comes from the Ancient Greek "pan theos," which means dedication to all gods. Built on the site of a temple commissioned by consul Marcus Agrippa during Augustus’ reign, the current structure was completed under Emperor Hadrian around 126 AD. It was transformed into a Catholic Church of Saint Mary and the Martyrs in 609 AD, ensuring its preservation through centuries.

The Pantheon’s unique design combines a classical portico supported by Corinthian granite columns with a domed cylindrical structure (called a rotunda). The unsupported concrete dome, still the largest of its kind in the world, features a central oculus that provides natural light, ventilation, and symbolic celestial connections. The rotunda's harmonious dimensions-43 meters in both height and diameter-epitomize Roman engineering excellence, while its original massive bronze doors, each weighing over 20 tons, and intricate drainage system (allowing to effectively divert rainwater) highlight the ingenuity of its creators.

Throughout its history, the Pantheon has been a vibrant part of Roman life. It served as a burial site during the Renaissance, housing notable figures like painter Raphael and Italian kings Victor Emmanuel II and Umberto I. Its materials, such as bronze, have been repurposed for other projects like Bernini’s baldachin above the high altar of Saint Peter's Basilica. However, its core structure remains remarkably intact. Today, the church still host religious ceremonies, including masses, weddings, and Pentecost celebrations.

The Pantheon’s influence extends far beyond Rome. Its dome inspired architectural marvels like the Florence Cathedral and Rotunda of the U.S. Capital in Washington D.C., while its combination of classical and modern elements shaped countless government and academic buildings worldwide.

With over six million annual visitors, the Pantheon remains a symbol of Roman ingenuity and artistic achievement. Tourists can enjoy free entry to this historic site or soak in its splendor from Rotonda Square, savoring gelato while marveling at its timeless beauty.

Tip:
Incredible at night (from the outside), it is especially so if you enjoy musicians with talent and engagement... but beware of pickpockets.

Navona Square, one of Rome’s most iconic places, is built on the site of the ancient (1st-century AD) Stadium of Domitian. The stadium’s elongated oval shape defines the square’s layout, which was originally designed for Roman games (or agones). Over time, the name evolved from Circus Agonalis (which means “competition arena”) to Navona. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the stadium fell into ruin and was quarried for materials, leaving few remnants today.

In the late 15th century, Navona Square was designated a public space when the city market moved there from Capitoline Hill. It became a celebrated example of Baroque architecture and art during the mid-17th century under Pope Innocent X, whose family property, the Pamphili Palace, overlooks the square. The latter also features several masterpieces, including Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers at its center, crowned by the Obelisk of Domitian. The renowned Church of Saint Agnes in Agone with its impressive dome further highlights the area's artistic significance. Also noteworthy are the Braschi Palace, presently home to the Museum of Rome, and the Cupis Palace, which now offers pre-booked accommodations.

Navona Square is also home to two additional fountains. The Fountain of the Moor, at the southern end, was originally sculpted by Giacomo della Porta in 1575, with Bernini adding a statue of a Moor wrestling a dolphin in 1673. At the northern end, the Fountain of Neptune, also by della Porta (created in 1574), gained its central Neptune statue in 1878.

The square has a rich cultural history, hosting theatrical performances and festivals, including a popular annual Christmas market, from December to January.

Navona Square made an appearance in several movies, including “Angels & Demons” (of 2008, starring Tom Hanks), “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” (with Sophie Loren, made in 1964), and “The Talented Mr. Ripley” (directed in 1999 by Anthony Minghella, featuring Matt Damon). The atmosphere in Navona Square exudes a cool and relaxed vibe which, complete with its cinematic and architectural appeal, makes it an ideal spot for photography.

Tip:
In the evenings, when the central fountain is illuminated, the square becomes particularly scenic.
If looking for more intimate and more value-for-money meals and refreshments, consider venturing onto one of the side streets adjacent to the square, filled with multiple eateries and cafes.

The focal point of Navona Square, the Fountain of the Four Rivers has been in place since the 17th century. While Rome has a longstanding affinity for fountains, dating back to antiquity, the Baroque era brought a new dimension to these water features, showcasing the generosity of the papacy.

In the case of the Fountain of the Four Rivers, Pope Innocent X, whose family seat – the Pamphili Palace – overlooks the square, entrusted the task to one of the most groundbreaking artists of the time, Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Created in 1651, the fountain was Rome's pinnacle achievement in fountain design, a symbolic masterpiece brimming with the dynamic and dramatic elements sought after by Baroque artists. Its central Egyptian obelisk is crowned with the Pamphili emblem, a dove with an olive twig.

Pope Innocent X chose Bernini after being secretly shown his model. The fountain was innovative, combining sculpture and architecture in a way unmatched by previous Roman fountains.

Here, the travertine base supports sculptures of four river gods, representing the major rivers of the continents over which papal authority had extended at that time. These include the Nile (for Africa), the Danube (for Europe), the Ganges (for Asia), and the Plate (for the Americas). Each figure conveys symbolic details: the Ganges is depicted holding a long oar, symbolizing the river's navigability; the Nile's veiled head signifies its unknown source; the Danube, the largest river near Rome touches the Pope's coat of arms; and the Plate sits atop a pile of coins, reflecting America’s wealth.

The fountain's unveiling on June 12, 1651, was marked by grand celebrations orchestrated by the Pamphili family. Allegorical figures of Fame and Curiosity paraded the streets, urging Romans to witness the reveal. The crowd marveled at the lifelike sculptures and water features, described as naturalistic and astonishing.

However, the project faced significant public opposition. Critics condemned its expense during the famine of 1646 to 1648, expressing their discontent through pasquinades demanding "Bread, not fountains." Street vendors and Roman Jews lamented their displacement from the square's market, which was closed to enhance its splendor.

Despite the controversy, the Fountain of the Four Rivers remains a cornerstone of Rome’s cultural and architectural legacy, blending mythology, artistry, and geographical narratives.

Tip:
To capture the essence of this fountain in photographs, it is recommended to shoot from various angles and positions, so as to get as much detail as possible. With ample space surrounding the fountain, take your time to find the perfect shot-or perhaps even multiple perfect shots.

Despite not being the mother church of Catholicism or Rome's cathedral, Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican is one of Christianity's holiest sites. Tradition holds that Saint Peter, the first Bishop of Rome, is buried inside, beneath the high altar, known as the Altar of the Confession.

Built to replace the aging original basilica, the new construction began in 1506, under Pope Julius II, and was completed in 1626. Designed by Renaissance masters such as Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, and Carlo Maderno, the structure embodies the grandeur of Italian High Renaissance architecture. Its vast interior makes it the largest church in the world by space.

The Latin cross layout features a vast dome, spanning 42 meters in diameter and towering 120 meters high. Meanwhile, the imposing façade adorned with statues of Saints Peter and Paul is complemented by a narthex housing the Holy Door. The latter, walled up with bricks, is opened only during jubilee years. Inside, the immense nave, wide aisles, and chapels are decorated with elaborate sculptures and artwork. Among these are Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin, a monumental canopy over the Papal Altar. Other notable artworks include Giotto’s Navicella mosaic and equestrian statues of Constantine and Charlemagne.

Michelangelo played a crucial role in shaping the place, refining its design into a more unified and monumental form. His dome, completed in 1590, has profoundly influenced Western church architecture. Slightly more pointed than Michelangelo's original plan, the dome's design blends Renaissance ideals with Baroque dynamism. Encircling the interior is an inscription that reads: "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church... and I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven."

The basilica also has six bells. The largest of them, "Campanone," weighs 9 tons and is used for ringing for papal blessings. Up on the roof are the sculptures of Christ the Redeemer, Saint John the Baptist, and 11 Apostles. Meanwhile, inside, there are over 100 tombs. Among those laid to rest are many popes, including Pope Jean Paul II, royals, and other historical figures, such as Holy Roman Emperor Otto II and Italian composer Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina.

Tips:
Arrive early in the morning to avoid long queues. Admission is free (until 5 PM when the gates close), but expect to undergo a security check before entering. Remember to dress modestly, with knees and shoulders covered (affordable scarves for ladies are available from nearby vendors). If you're feeling adventurous, ascend to the top of the dome. An elevator ride can save you from climbing more than 300 stairs.

Saint Peter's Square is a grand plaza in front of Saint Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. Both the square and the basilica (the largest Christian temple and spiritual heart of Catholicism), are dedicated to Saint Peter, one of Jesus’s apostles, who is also regarded as the first Pope.

Dominating the square's center is the Vatican obelisk, a red granite structure, rising to approximately 25 meters (or 83 feet). Originally erected in Heliopolis, Egypt, it was moved to Rome by Emperor Caligula in the 1st century AD and was finally relocated to its current position in 1586 by engineer Domenico Fontana under Pope Sixtus V. The obelisk, adorned with bronze lions and a cross-topped Chigi family crest, has remained intact since antiquity. It serves as the plaza's focal point and symbolizes the triumph of Christianity over paganism.

Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini between 1656 and 1667 under Pope Alexander VII, the square was intended to maximize visibility for papal blessings. Bernini incorporated colossal Tuscan colonnades, which are four columns deep and comprise 284 columns and 88 pilasters. The colonnades encircle the oval-shaped plaza, symbolizing the "maternal arms of Mother Church." The trapezoidal approach enhances the visual impact, a hallmark of Baroque design.

The square also features two matching fountains, flanking the obelisk, created by Carlo Maderno and Bernini (in 1613 and 1675 respectively), balancing the architectural harmony. The fountains represent the life-giving waters of the Christian faith.

The paving of the square includes travertine lines that radiate outward, breaking up the vast stone surface. In 1817, circular stones were added to transform the obelisk into a giant sundial, marking the sun’s position as it enters each zodiac sign.

Saint Peter's Square is accessible via Conciliation Street, an avenue created between 1937 and 1950 following the demolition of the medieval “spina” area. Its removal, under Mussolini's directive, made the basilica visible from Saint Angel's Castle.

Apart from being an architectural marvel, today the square serves as a gathering space for momentous events and ceremonies within the Catholic Church. These attract annually millions of visitors and pilgrims from across the globe seeking to attend papal audiences and receive blessings from the Pope. During significant occasions like Easter Sunday and Christmas, the square transforms into a splendid backdrop for grand celebrations and religious rituals, much as for capturing memorable photos.

The Sistine Chapel is one of the most significant artistic and religious landmarks in the world. Originally known as the "Great Chapel," it was reconstructed and consecrated between 1473 and 1483, under Pope Sixtus IV; hence its name.

The chapel’s fame largely stems from its breathtaking frescoes, particularly Michelangelo’s ceiling and The Last Judgment on the altar wall. Before that, Renaissance painters such as Botticelli, Perugino, and several others had already adorned the side walls with depictions of The Life of Moses and The Life of Christ. Above these biblical scenes, portraits of popes and “deceive the eye” drapery added to the visual splendor. Raphael later designed tapestries for the lower walls in 1515, though many were looted and only partially restored in the 20th century.

Under the patronage of Pope Julius II, in 1508, Michelangelo repainted the chapel's ceiling, originally decorated with a blue background and golden stars. Despite considering himself more of a sculptor than a painter, he undertook the monumental task, conditioned he was given full artistic control. Michelangelo's work, completed in 1512, transformed Western art with vivid colors and a masterful composition that depicted The Creation of the World, The Fall of Man, and The Redemption of Humanity. More than 300 figures, arranged in three layers, included prophets, ancestors of Christ, and nine dramatic scenes from Genesis, covering over 5,000 square feet.

These frescoes are accompanied by the presence of male nudes. Additionally, the spandrels surrounding the vault feature sibyls, prophetesses from pagan mythology, who were embraced by Christian artists during the Renaissance as capable of foreseeing the arrival of Christ. One of the most iconic paintings within the chapel is The Creation of Adam, portraying God reaching out to create Adam against a backdrop of cloudy heavens. This renowned artwork is among the most reproduced religious paintings in history.

In 1535, under Pope Paul III, Michelangelo returned to paint "The Last Judgment" and completed it in 1541. This monumental fresco, portraying Christ’s Second Coming, stirred controversy due to its nude figures, leading to a censorship campaign. The artist mocked critics by incorporating their likenesses into the painting, while later interventions saw parts of the nudity covered.

The chapel’s structure, measuring 35 meters long, 14 meters wide, and 20 meters high, follows precise Renaissance proportions. Though plain on the outside, its interior is a masterpiece of composition and storytelling.