Abigail Hole - Lonely Planet Discover Rome

Welcome to Rome

Rome is a seductive, thrilling city, created through the alchemy of history, genius and the hot Mediterranean sun.

With an artistic heritage dating back to Etruscan times, the city is packed with masterpieces, particularly from the ancient, Renaissance and baroque eras. Throughout history, Rome has played a starring role in the major upheavals of Western art and the results are there for all to see amazing classical carvings, stunning Renaissance frescoes and breathtaking baroque statuary. Walk around the centre and, even without trying, you'll come across works by the greats of the artistic pantheon sculptures by Michelangelo, paintings by Caravaggio, frescoes by Raphael and fountains by Bernini. In Rome, art is not locked away from view, it's all around you.

Once caput mundi (capital of the world), the glittering hub of the vast Roman Empire, Rome was the seat of papal power for centuries. The legacies of its past are embodied in awe-inspiring buildings such as the Roman Forum, the Pantheon and the Vatican, which contemporary Romans navigate with an uncanny air of nonchalant cool. Rome was a city that counted, and this is writ large on its historic streets the Colosseum evokes glorious imperial days, the Circo Massimo conjures up images of wild chariot races, Castel Sant'Angelo testifies to violent dramas and St Peter's Basilica stands as a monument to artistic genius and papal ambition.

But Rome is as much about lapping up the lifestyle as it is about gorging on art and historic sights. And there's no better way of getting into the spirit of things than by eating and drinking well. Food and wine are as important to Roman social life as those other pillars: family and football, and the hundreds of pizzerias, trattorias, restaurants and gelaterie in the city buzz and bubble over with life. Whether it gets to you through its art, its architecture, its pasta or its vibrant sense of life, Rome is a city that encourages devotion.

Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi and Chiesa di Sant'Agnese in Agone, Piazza Navona ()
RICHARD I'ANSON/LONELY PLANET IMAGES

Romes Top Experiences

Colosseum ()

Rome's most iconic monument, the Colosseum is a compelling sight. You'll know what it looks like but no photograph can prepare you for the thrill of seeing it for the first time. For 2000 years, this muscular arena has stood as the symbol of Roman power, as the striking embodiment of the terrible awe that Rome once inspired. As you climb its steeply stacked stands, try to imagine them full of frenzied spectators screaming for blood a chilling thought.

GEOFF STRINGER/LONELY PLANET IMAGES

Palatino ()

Rome's seven hills offer some superb vantage points. One of the best is the Palatino (Palatine hill), a gorgeous green expanse of evocative ruins, towering pine trees and sweeping views that rises above the Roman Forum. This is where it all began, where Romulus supposedly killed Remus and founded the city in 753 BC, and where the ancient Roman emperors lived in unimaginable luxury.

ARALDO DE LUCA/CORBIS

An architectural wonder, ancient Rome's most complete building. ()

Glittering with imposing splendour, full of artistic riches, topped by Michelangelo's dome. ()

Huge lozenge-shaped piazza, ripe for people-watching and filled with baroque fountains. ()