Secret places in Rome that tourists don't get to. Interesting places in Rome

I was in Rome three times, but it turned out that I didn’t get to see much. I wanted to know the history of these unusual places, maybe next time I’ll be able to visit them.

Buco della serratura or keyhole.

Rome is the city of seven hills. The southernmost of them - Aventine - is located on one of the banks of the Tiber and houses many attractions. At the top of the hill, on the Square of the Knights of Malta, there is a unique keyhole. Looking into it, you can see three sovereign public education– Italy, the Vatican and the Order of Malta.

And this is called the Holy Hole (Santo Buco). This optical joke was invented by Piranesi (1720 - 1778) - Italian archaeologist, architect and graphic artist, master of architectural landscapes). Through this very hole three states are visible: the Vatican, Malta and Italy, that is, St. Peter's Cathedral (belonging to the Vatican), the gardens of the Order (belonging to Malta) and Rome itself, the capital of Italy, are visible.

PYRAMID OF CESTIUS.

An ancient Roman mausoleum in the shape of an irregular pyramid on the Aventine in Rome, next to the Porta San Paolo.

The pyramid is located at the fork in two ancient roads: Ostian and another leading west to the river Tiber approximately along the modern Via della Marmorata. Built between 18 and 12 AD. BC e. for Gaius Cestius Epulona , magistrate and member of one of the four great Roman priesthoods collegium, Septemviri Epulonum.

It is a perfectly preserved building made of concrete lined with brick and marble . The height is 125 Roman feet (or 36.4 meters), the length of the base is 100 Roman feet (30 meters). Inside the pyramid there is a crypt 5.95 m long, 4.10 m wide and 4.80 m high. Nearby - Non-Catholic cemetery with the graves of Shelley, Keats and Bryullov.

In ancient times, the grave was carefully sealed, which did not prevent it from being looted in subsequent years.

In the Middle Ages it was believed that the Cestian Pyramid was buried Rem , and in the Vatican pyramid - his brother Romulus . In particular, he wrote about this Petrarch . Only in the 1660s. during excavations undertaken by order Pope Alexander VII , the entrance to the pyramid, traces of frescoes and marble inscriptions on the bases of the statues were discovered, indicating the circumstances of its construction.

Frescoes.

The Cestian Pyramid has long attracted the attention of foreigners visiting Rome. Paintings and engravings depicting her were especially popular. Perhaps the most famous image belongs to Piranesi

ORANGE GARDEN.

Savello Park is one of the romantic places in Rome, located on the Aventine Hill. There are practically no tourists here, so it is one of the favorite places of Roman residents. Couples in love come here, families with children like to relax here, wedding celebrations are often held - the garden is a wonderful and suitable place for photo sessions.

Previously, on the site of the park in Rome there was a noble fortress Italian family Savelli, which is why the park was named Savello Park. Unfortunately, the fortress has not survived to this day. The Orange Garden is what the Romans call Savello Park. And they call it that because the garden itself is planted with wild orange trees, the fragrance of which spreads throughout the entire territory of the garden.

They say that the first orange tree was planted by Saint Dominic on the territory of the monastery in which he lived. The park was officially opened in 1932, and is still carefully maintained and blooms beautifully.

FOUNTAIN OF BOOKS.

The ancient Romans said “Habent sua fata libelli”, which translated means “Books have their own destiny.” This saying means that one should not judge literary works rashly.

As if a silent reminder of this wisdom is the Roman Fountain of Books (also known as the Fountain of Science or the Fountain of Knowledge), created by the sculptor Pietro Lombardi and dedicated to Thomas Aquinas. It consists of two stacks of books with bookmarks and a deer's head between them. This unusual fountain is located not far from the masterpiece of the Roman Baroque, the 17th century Catholic church - Sant Ivo alla Sapienza, which is part of the Roman Borromini University.

ROMAN CATS.

The ruins of the ancient Roman temple complex on Torre Argentina are just one of the habitats of the famous Roman cats, about whose free life many films have been made by world television channels.

A cat sleeping on a piece of marble is a favorite subject of calendars and postcards that tourists bring from Rome. Here, in Largo Argentina, cats have lived since 1929, when this oldest religious building in the city was excavated (300-400 BC).

In the 1950s, Anna Magnani came here to feed the four-legged strays. Today, charity has taken on more organized forms: an international team of volunteers is caring for the 250 cats living in the ruins. You can visit the cats, and buy cute souvenirs with appropriate symbols in the store at the cat shelter.

Cloaca Maxima

The exact date of its construction is unknown for certain (either the 4th or 7th century BC), but it is definitely one of the most ancient and unique such structures. Sewage in Rome began to be actively built under Lucius Tarquinius Prisca, who paid great attention to the infrastructure of the city.

It was during his reign that the construction of the Great Cloaca is most often attributed. To do this, they invited Etruscan craftsmen and dug a canal 800 m long, 3 meters wide and 4 meters high between the Palatine and Capitoline hills. Cloaca Maxima was originally open, then it was covered with wooden decks and then paved with Gabi stone.

To this day, despite its venerable age, the Great Cloaca is in fairly good condition and serves as a storm drain.

In addition to the main attractions of Rome, described in all guidebooks, the Eternal City has places that are not known to every tourist. Below we have listed 5 of the most interesting and unusual attractions in Rome that can truly delight curious travelers. And they explained how to get to them.

1. Keyhole on the Aventine

On the Aventine Hill (Colle dell'Aventino) you can look through the keyhole of the door that protects the Villa del Priorato di Malta. From this well you can simultaneously see three states at once: the Vatican (St. Peter's Basilica), the Order of Malta (which owns the villa and residence) and Italy itself between them.

It is easy to distinguish a hole with views from a simple keyhole: a pair of carabinieri are always on duty near it.

How to get there: the exact addressPiazza Pietro d "Illiria, Circo Massimo metro station, territory of Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden)

2. Magic door (Porta Magica)

Another interesting attraction is the Magic Door (or La Porta Alchemica as it is called in Rome) - this is a magic door from 1680 located in Villa Palombara near piazza Vittorio Emanuele (if you are staying at a hotel near Termini Station - Finding this attraction will not be difficult).

According to the Romans, on this door is written the formula for turning any metal into gold. According to legend, in the 17th century, the alchemist and magician Francesco Giuseppe stayed overnight at the villa, who discovered a mysterious plant in the garden that could produce gold. The next morning, the guests of the villa discovered that the alchemist had disappeared, dissolving through the door, and on the door itself remained inscribed the mysterious formulas for turning metal into gold.

How to get there: piazza Vittorio Emanuele, territory of villa Palombara (free entrance)

3. St. Peter's Dome Illusion

Another interesting discovery is the view of the dome of St. Peter's Basilica from Villa Pamphili, from Via Piccolomini. From there you can see the dome of the cathedral, but if you move closer to it, the dome will get smaller, and if you move away, the dome, on the contrary, will seem huge. This unusual optical illusion has several explanations - why this happens - everyone has their own assumptions, the same effect is observed in filmed videos... But it’s worth watching live!

How to get there: Villa Pamphili is located in the Trastevere area and can be reached by tram number 8 from Piazza Venezia.

4. Facade of the Zuccari Palace

The unusual and extravagant palace is located at via Gregoriana 30, near Piazza di Spagna. In place of the main door is a huge monster! And all because the architect of the palace, Federico Zuccari, was at one time very impressed by the sculptures of monsters that he saw in Bomarzo Park (near Rome). And Bomarzo Park, in turn, was built by the grief-stricken Prince Bomarzo after the death of his young wife... What a reason for inspiration!

5. Pyramid of Cestius

Located near the Piramide metro station (blue line), this is perhaps the only surviving ancient pyramid in Europe. The Roman magistrate Gaius Cestius, who lived in the 1st century BC and was famous for his military campaigns in African countries, is buried here. During his African campaigns, he liked the Nubian tombs, and after his death he wanted to be in the same one.

This tomb was built not like in Egypt, but much simpler and cheaper, which is why it was built in just 330 days. The inside is concrete, and the outside of the pyramid is covered with white marble slabs and bricks. The height is not small - almost like a 9-story building. The shape of the pyramid is irregular. In its center there is a cube-shaped crypt about 5 meters high.

The outside of the Pyramid can be viewed at any time. Get inside on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month at 11.00.

How to get there: Piramide metro station, blue line

The Eternal City, as ancient Rome is commonly called, is fabulously interesting and diverse, housing a lot of historical monuments, artistic attractions and architectural masterpieces. The entire history of the once powerful empire is reflected in them, attracting with their secrets an endless pilgrimage of tourists from all over the world. This article will help practical advice, how not to get lost among the ancient cobblestone squares, majestic temples and museums, how to use your time more efficiently to explore the main attractions of Rome.

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Capitol Hill

An iconic landmark of Rome is one of the seven hills on which the city was born, the Capitoline being the lowest and smallest in area. Despite this, it has always been the main center of the Eternal City. At its top is the Capitoline Square, on which there was a temple built back in the 5th century BC. e. in honor of the gods Ancient Rome: Jupiter, Minerva and Juno. But until the 16th century AD. e. the hill was in severe decline, overgrown with grass, and goats grazed on it.

When Pope Paul III was appointed to Rome (1536), on his initiative the Capitol received a new development. The development of the project was entrusted to the outstanding creator Michelangelo, an already famous sculptor and artist, who managed to adequately implement some of his ideas. After his death, the master’s students continued to master the project and only a century later they realized everything planned by the great teacher.

Now everyone who comes to Capitol Hill can appreciate the architectural masterpieces located on the square of the same name. Right in its center is a bronze figure of Marcus Aurelius, one of the most progressive Roman emperors. The statue of Mark sitting on a mighty rearing horse is surrounded by luxurious medieval buildings: the Palace of Senators, the Palace of Conservatives, New Palace, Church of Santa Maria in Araceli, Capitoline Museum. The brilliant author of these architectural masterpieces depicted on them many symbolic messages to the future, over the interpretation of which scientific researchers are racking their brains. How happy anyone can feel who sees them and can decipher the meaning of these symbolic decorations on the palaces of the Capitol.

Today, the City Hall services are located in the Palace of Senators, where tourists are not allowed to enter, but they will be interested in seeing ancient Roman texts carved on stone slabs in the Lapidarium Museum. Its exhibits are witnesses to the life and politics of Ancient Rome. Unforgettable impressions and sensations of antiquity await everyone in the underground corridors of the Tabularium - the ancient Roman state archive, where they are stored on special tablets - tabulae. documentary information about the cities of the Roman Empire, various regulations and government acts. You should definitely visit the unique repository of priceless rarities.

The luxurious Palace of the Conservatives has been turned into a museum displaying marble busts and sculptures, famous paintings by Caravaggio, Rubens, Velazquez; ancient Greek and Etruscan artifacts, ancient coins, silver and gold jewelry. In a separate room there is a statue of the famous Capitoline Wolf, which is a symbol of Rome.

You should definitely go to the Basilica of Santa Maria Araceli to touch the miraculous sculpture of the infant Christ and admire the extraordinary wooden carvings of the altar. In order not only to see all the significant objects of the Capitol, but also to reliably learn their history, it is better to visit them as part of a group with a guide.

Open: 09.00-17.30. Entry is free.

Address: Capitoline Square (Piazza del Campidoglio).

To get to it on foot, you can take the Colosseum as a reference point; from there, walk 15-20 minutes to Capitol Hill. Along the way you can see the Roman Forum and Venetian Square. For such a walk it is better to choose morning time when there is no crowd.

If you go in the midst of a tourist pilgrimage, it is better to climb the small stairs with a wooden canopy (pergola) located on the right or the Andreozzi (the nearby steep stairs). The central staircase of the Cordonat is often packed to capacity with urists. We must not forget about caution: there may be different people in the crowd, including clever pickpockets.

Metro (line B), station. Colosseo.

Buses: 30, 51, 81, 83, 85, 87, 118, 160, 170, 628, 810 to the stop. Ara Coeli-Piazza Venezia. Tram: 8 – go to the final stop. Venice.

Coliseum

The most majestic large-scale arena in the world was built in the 8th century AD. e. and was the main symbol of the power of the Roman Empire. Even looking at the remains of the grandiose structure, one can easily imagine how much human labor was invested in it during the 8 years of construction. The name of the ancient amphitheater is consonant with the word “colossus”, denoting its enormous size and future durability. Otherwise, the Colosseum was called the “Flavian Amphitheater” (the ruling dynasty of Roman emperors).

At that time, it was the most capacious building in the world, capable of hosting 55 thousand spectators simultaneously in its stands. They excitedly watched the deadly fights of gladiators, water battles between ships (the arena was filled with water from the Tiber) and other competitions in which few survived. With the rise of Christianity, bloody gladiatorial combat ceased at the beginning of the 5th century. The Colosseum gradually lost its importance as a performance arena and was used as a stable, storage facility, and homeless shelter.

Now it is the greatest monument of ancient architecture, the design of which is an example of a brilliant project that provides for the extraordinary durability and strength of a colossal structure. The basis for such durability is formed by numerous arched vaults, which made it possible not only to save building materials and ensure long life for the walls, but also to make the huge building delicately elegant in appearance. Preserving the majestic remains for posterity is a matter of honor for Italians, and visiting the most valuable monument of Roman civilization is the civic duty of every tourist.

To save time and money on travel around Rome, it is rational to combine a visit to the Colosseum with an excursion to the Capitoline Hill, because these objects are located close to each other (see above). In order to avoid standing in line for a long time for a ticket at the Colosseum ticket office, you can buy it (the ticket) at the entrance to the Roman Forum, walking from the Capitol.

Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma.

How to get there: metro (line B), metro station. Coliseum. Buses: 60.75, 85, 87, 175, 186, 271, 571, 810, 850. 3rd tram line.

The cost of a comprehensive ticket (Colosseum, Palatine and Roman Forum) is 12 euros.

Despite the small area of ​​the Vatican (0.45 sq. km), its buildings house many museums and art galleries, viewing which, one can conclude about the political and economic power of the mini-state. Here is the most collected a large number of priceless treasures, works of art, literature, historical monuments.

The museum collections began with the famous sculpture “Laocoon and His Sons,” bought by Pope Julius II from a private owner. The Historical Museum is one of the later museums (1973), organized on the initiative of Pope Paul 6. Its exhibits illustrate the history of the development of the Vatican: papal robes, carriages, cars and other attributes of its inhabitants.

The Etruscan Museum contains exhibits found during archaeological excavations: Etruscan vases, bronze jewelry, various items Roman art.

Founded in 1839, the Egyptian Museum displays ancient Egyptian artifacts, including stone masks, mummies, various sarcophagi, Egyptian household items, and a sand statue of Pharaoh Mentuhotep. The Apostolic Palace consists of 7 km of corridors and 1,400 halls, housing a huge number of artistic masterpieces, including Stanzas of Raphael .

Pinacoteca (18 halls) - a collection of artistic paintings on a religious theme by the best Italian painters who worked from the 11th to the 19th centuries. Here are masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, da Vinci and others. In addition to paintings, the halls contain unique icons, tapestries, sculptures, and mosaic panels.

The Belvedere courtyard houses 2 palaces: Nicholas V and Innocent VII - both buildings are magnificent with their classical architecture, antique statues in wall niches. In the common courtyard stands the original bronze sculpture “Sphere within a Sphere.”

The Sistine Chapel is an undoubted pearl among the Vatican museums, which is painted with amazing frescoes by Michelangelo with biblical scenes, Botticelli, Perugino, etc. The Vatican Library is home to a huge collection of printed and handwritten rarities from antiquity, the recent past and the present.

When planning to visit the Vatican Museums, you need to know that some of them can only be accessed by pre-registration. You can find out which ones on the website of the museum complex and purchase tickets online there so as not to stand in a long line. But it will cost 4 euros more. Arriving at museum complex, you will need to print out the ticket and present it at the special ticket office. Online ticket booking address https://biglietteriamusei.vatican.va/musei/tickets).

It is better to visit museums with a guide; if this is not possible, you can rent an audio guide along with tickets (7 €) – sound files with information about museum exhibits. We must not forget about our appearance: you cannot come here in shorts, T-shirts and flip-flops.

Museums are open: Monday-Saturday, 09.00-18.00; except Sundays, days declared as state and great church holidays.

Ticket price: adults. – 15 Є; children's – 8 Є; groups of schoolchildren – 4 Є.

The ticket office is open until 16.00; purchased tickets cannot be exchanged.

Address: Viale Vaticano.

How to get there: from Termini railway station by metro (line A), stop. S Pietro.

Buses: 32, 49, 81, 492, 982 to the stop. Vatican Museums.

Tram 19 – stop. Piazza del Risorqimento and walk 100 m from it.

Walking distance from Termini - along the street. Via Nazionale; from pl. Venice - on the street. Corso Vittorio Emmanuele.

The Pantheon is an ancient temple, presumably built in the 2nd century. n. e. in honor of the ancient Roman gods, it became another striking symbol of the Roman Empire. In terms of the genius of its implementation, its design is not inferior to the Colosseum, confirming once again the idea that all times have their own talents. The fact that it has survived unchanged to this day testifies to the ability of architects to conscientiously build for centuries.

It's hard to believe that the towering dome of the monument weighs 5 thousand tons and has not yet collapsed, as happens in some modern buildings. Moreover, the dome has a through hole with a diameter of 9 m, through which precipitation gets inside. The Pantheon captured the imagination of the great creators of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, who considered it the true receptacle of the divine spirit. Raphael, like many other famous personalities, is buried in it (which is what he dreamed of). There are not enough words to describe all the grandeur, grace and beauty of this architectural masterpiece. You just need to see it, as millions of pilgrims from all countries of the planet do.

To thoroughly examine this wonderful building, you should come here immediately after opening (09.00 - 19.00), because during the day there is a constant “crush” of tourists. Entrance is free and you can see without restrictions.

Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186, Roma.

How to get there: metro (line A), metro station. Barberini.

Buses: 30, 40, 62, 64, 81, 87, 49.

Tram: 8.

St. Peter's Square

A unique historical site in Rome is St. Peter's Square, the need for which arose after the construction of the majestic cathedral of the devoted disciple of Christ, who accepted martyrdom. So many believers came here that the temple was not able to accommodate everyone. Therefore, it was necessary to equip the square, which has become the most beautiful and famous in the world: the Pope addresses parishioners from the window of his residence located here.

This is a favorite place for Rome residents of all ages and tourists visiting the sights of the square. The majestic Peter's Cathedral, the ancient Egyptian granite obelisk, wonderful fountains, sculptural monuments of the holy apostles Peter and Paul, the architectural masterpiece - the residence of the Pope - everything is so beautiful and magnificent around that you simply become numb with admiration.

If your stay in Rome is short-term, a tour of the square may precede an excursion to the Vatican, since it is located on the border with the mini-state. You can come here early, when there are still few people there, look at everything in detail and then go to the Vatican Museums. This will save time and money on travel, and the day will be full of unforgettable impressions. During the break, you can have lunch and relax in nearby cafes.

How to get to the square: A trip by metro (line B) to Ottaviano San Pietro station will bring a lot of pleasant impressions, but you should not lose your vigilance among the diverse crowd in the carriages.

Advice to ladies: if temperamental young macho men begin to court you gallantly, do not relax, so as not to end up in the situation of the heroine Inna Churikova in the film “Casanova’s Cloak.” These courtships, smiles, passionate glances can end in harsh extortion of money for flirting.

Buses go to the square: 23, 34, 40, 271 (the most convenient routes). You can get there by taxi or rented car if you are not saving money.

This is the territory of hoary antiquity, where the pulse of public and political life center great empire, where Triumphal processions took place, laws were passed and the fate of people and states was decided. Here, powerful emperors dressed in crimson togas ruled in luxurious marble palaces; People's meetings and all the most important fateful state events took place here.

An open-air antique museum is an exciting spectacle, alluring with the dust of distant eras, the grandeur of noble ruins, the opportunity to clearly travel back many centuries and experience the thrilling feeling of belonging to the unique sights seen. And there are a lot of them here, and each has interesting story. Those who want to get acquainted with them in more detail have the opportunity to use an audio guide (4 Є) or the services of a guide.

If you wish, here you can take a photo with the “gladiators” (men in gladiator costumes) as a souvenir.

Address: Via della Salaria Vecchia, 5/6

Ticket price – 12 Є.

Santa Maria Maggiore

The construction of one of the main 4 churches in Rome is based on the legend of the prophetic dream of Bishop Liberius, in which the Blessed Virgin Mary, who appeared to him, ordered to build a temple where snow would fall in the morning. This explains the construction of the basilica on the Esquiline Hill. Even now, 05.08, every year on the square in front of the church they celebrate the day of the miraculous snowfall, when hundreds of white petals fly up and down in the church, symbolizing snowflakes from the bishop’s prophetic dream. In the evening everything is repeated in the square after the festive concert.

The Church of St. Mary is a real architectural miracle, created by the collective efforts of many talented architects, sculptors, masters of painting and embossing. Among the unsurpassed artistic masterpieces in interior design, there are mosaic paintings (5th century), magnificent frescoes with Old Testament scenes, and amazing floor ornaments (13th century).

A priceless treasure is the Holy Cradle of Jesus at the central altar with a statue of Pius IX kneeling respectfully before the shrine. The incredible beauty of the design and magnificent decoration of the chapels, tombs and all rooms of the basilica evokes admiration. To see with your own eyes the whole spectrum of colors, lines, details of amazing church interiors, to feel high spirituality is a great happiness! Such visits inspire talented people to create poetic and musical masterpieces, such as the songs “Roman Midnight” and “Santa Maria Maggiore”.

Address: pl. St. Maria Maggiore, 42.

It’s easier to get to the church on foot from the Termini railway station along the street. Cavour (walk 10 min.)

Open every day, 07.00-19.00.

Outwardly, a modest, unremarkable building was erected on the territory of the Vatican by order of Pope Sixtus IV as a house church (1473-1483), in which the papal leadership could safely take refuge in times of danger. But the interior decoration and decoration of the Sistine Chapel simply plunges you into emotional shock with the unprecedented beauty of the ceiling and wall frescoes. Their authors were the most outstanding painters of that time: Michelangelo, Botticelli, Perugino and others. All of Michelangelo's works are eternal masterpieces, over which centuries have no power.

His main creation, a huge fresco occupying the entire wall behind the altar, “The Last Judgment,” evokes sacred awe. Its warning story about a universal catastrophe, the characters are so expressive in the manifestation of their feelings that they act on the audience more convincingly than any sermon or moral teaching. The brilliant master devoted 4 years of tireless work to the painting. This chapel is a true treasury of biblical and Old Testament scenes depicted in artistic form. If you find yourself in the Vatican, be sure to visit it to touch the high spiritual beauty!

Address: located in the Vatican. A general ticket to all museums costs 16 €.

Saint Paul's Cathedral

This cathedral - one of the four main religious shrines of Rome - was built in memory of the crucified companion of Christ, who suffered martyrdom in the era of Nero. At the site of his burial, a majestic cathedral was erected, which was rebuilt and reconstructed many times and acquired its current magnificent appearance. Outstanding masters also worked on it, including Michelangelo and his students.

A classic masterpiece of architecture shines with external and internal beauty, grandeur and scale. Inside there are many sculptures, bas-reliefs, and paintings, which are first-class works of art. The statue of St. Peter is impressive, which, according to parishioners, has miraculous powers (everyone tries to touch it). The ashes of several Popes and noble aristocrats rest in the cathedral. In the Sacristy of the temple there is a Museum of the Treasures of the Cathedral, where religious Catholic artifacts are collected. You need to buy a separate ticket here, but the general tour of the cathedral is free.

Address: pl. St. Peter's 00120, Vatican.

How to get there:

Metro (line A): stop. Ottaviano Cipro.

Tram 19, stop. Risorgimento - San Pietro.

Buses: N 590 (stop Risorgimento); N49-stop. Musei Vatiicano

In 4 small rooms of the Papal Palace of the Vatican you can see amazing artistic expression and the divinity of the execution of the frescoes painted on the ceiling vaults and walls. The great Raphael reflected in them the philosophical views of the rulers of the Vatican, poetry, justice, history, legends and traditions of the past. Images of the Holy Trinity, Our Lady, John the Baptist, Dante, Aristotle, Pythagoras, Plato and others famous personalities written with great love. The unfading beauty of the painting has stunned the imagination of everyone who comes here for many centuries.

25-year-old Raphael put his heart, soul and physical strength, leaving his masterpieces as a great gift to future generations. The fresco of “Constantine” was already painted by Raphael’s students. There are not enough words to express how beautiful his frescoes are. Seeing them is a great happiness!

Address: Vatican.

Entrance with a general ticket “Vatican Museums” – 16 €.

Baths of Caracalla

To be precise, it must be said that the Baths of Caracalla are now the ancient ruins of a once grandiose structure built in the 2nd century AD. e. during the time of Marcus Aurelius, nicknamed Caracalla. But even from the ruins one can judge the power and wealth of the Roman emperors, who were able to create such complexes. The Baths of Caracalla is not just a bathhouse, but a whole complex where conditions were created for a comfortable pastime: you could steam to your heart’s content, wash, and splash in the huge pool located in the vast hall. In the thermal baths there was an opportunity to play various board games, engage in active sports, or just sit in a cozy environment.

Now they have traces of luxurious decoration: the remains of magnificent floors and walls made of colored mosaics. Judging by the incredible thickness of the walls, it is easy to imagine what a huge amount of materials went into construction. Concerts of celebrities and famous symphony orchestras take place here, whose performances look very romantic against the backdrop of the majestic ruins. The Roman Baths are a valuable architectural monument testifying to the highest level civilizations of the former empire. If you wish, you can walk among the noble ruins for hours.

Address: Baths of Caracalla, 52, Rome.

Trevi Fountain

It is too primitive to call a grandiose sculptural-stone masterpiece a fountain, although, in fact, it is a source clean water from the 13th century. However, the ambitious intentions of the popes to decorate Trevi Square as luxuriously as possible turned the once modest drinking spring into a real artistic and architectural miracle. It was created by several architects and sculptors over almost 30 years (1732-1762), creating a unique frame of magnificent sculptures that make up ancient scenes for flowing water.

Mighty Neptune, who is raised from the water element by sea horses and tritons harnessed to a chariot; the goddesses of Health and Abundance greet those who come to the fountain with divine dignity. The latter generously throw coins to the stone ladies (1.5 million Є per year!) in the hope of their mercy. The sculptural composition of the fountain successfully complements the appearance of the ancient palace, creating the impression of a single complex of stunning beauty.

Like many sights of Rome, the Trevi Fountain repeatedly appears in documentaries and feature films, on magazine covers and postcards. The bright love scene of the film “La Dolce Vita” by F. Felinni takes place precisely in the January water of the fountain; the heroes of Gregory Peck and Audrey Hebpern, A. Celentano and O. Mutti met against its background in other films. Recently, the fountain is operational again after reconstruction.

How to get there:

You can get to Trevi Square, to the fountain, by metro (line A) to the stop. Spagna or Barberini. From there it's a short walk to the fountain.

Augusta Forum

More ancient remains former greatness Roman Empire - Forum of Augustus, who paid much attention to the development of construction and architecture. All structures of the Forum of Augustus were part of the Roman Forum and were surrounded by a high protective wall (height 30 m), which is quite well preserved. From the main temple of Mars, several columns, part of the podium and the staircase to the temple have survived. The surviving statue of Mars is now on display in the Capitoline Museum as an example of prehistoric art.

Time has not destroyed the arched entrance vaults of the Forum of Augustus. Arches, a very persistent element of Ancient Rome, were used in the construction of all colossal buildings, and now modern architects are actively using arched technologies in the construction of monumental structures.

Getting here is the same as getting to the Roman Forum: metro (line B) to the stop. Coliseum. To get a more complete picture of these buildings, you can examine all 4 (they are located nearby).

Rocca Savello area

The uniqueness of this area of ​​the main city of the Apennine Peninsula is that it is a combination of a steep climb and a garden. If you want to see unusual panoramas of the city, appreciate its scale and take a fresh look at already familiar sights, you should definitely take the time to visit this unique place.

The rise is located in the very center of Rome, not far from the Circus Maximus. As soon as you find yourself here, you will be visited by feelings of peace and slight envy. After all, how can one city absorb so much beauty? On the entire planet, only Rome can boast of luxurious gardens that have been intertwined with stone monuments for many, many centuries.

Bring your camera with you and you are guaranteed to be able to capture the Italian capital from an interesting angle. Later, you will be able to proudly show these pictures to your friends and family, making you wonder what city exactly was in front of their eyes.

Coppede Quarter

The fabulous quarter known as Coppede is located near the Policlinico metro station. Fairy palaces, frog fountains and unique architecture of buildings - all this and much more is eagerly awaited by every guest of Rome. Among those tourists who have managed to visit this unusual quarter, there is an opinion that it is strikingly different from all other areas of the city. This place will surprise you from the very entrance, which is decorated with a unique arch that connects the two Palaces of Ambassadors. As the name implies, diplomatic representatives once lived in these apartments.

After taking a few steps, you will come across a statue of the Madonna, which seems to invite you to visit this amazing quarter. I almost forgot to mention the huge wrought iron chandelier, which is another decoration of the entrance arch. Even after so many centuries it looks grandiose, you can examine its smallest details and appreciate the enormous work done by its creators.

Immediately behind the arch, the impressive Piazza Mincio will open before your eyes, which among the locals is called the “heart” of the quarter. A few words should be said about the history of the quarter's origins. At the beginning of the 20th century, an architect named Coppede received an unusual commission. The main idea was to create a quarter of Rome that would combine all known architectural styles. The construction was carried out with Cerruti's personal funds. It took more than 10 years to build all the buildings. Although the quarter was initially considered as an area for the middle class of the population, as a result, thanks to the mass of attractions and the unusual approach to the implementation of the project, Coppede attracted the attention of the more affluent sections of the city's population. And today the quarter is among the most popular, and its real estate is considered the most in demand.

Rome is full of attractions. But in addition to well-known buildings, picturesque ancient ruins, exquisite baroque palaces and legendary basilicas, famous fountains and squares, Rome also has little-known sights and unusual places, which are interesting also because not everyone knows about them. If you have already completed the “obligatory” program and seen, allow yourself to veer away from the routes trodden by tourists and look into the small streets and secret places of the Eternal City, see a different, unusual Rome. So, what is unusual to see in Rome, where are unusual sights hidden, and what is interesting about them?

"Talking statues" of Rome: can stones talk?

Sculpture lovers will find many magnificent statues in Rome, created by the hands of the great masters of the Renaissance and Baroque. But among the Roman statues there are also those that are not particularly beautiful and beautiful in appearance, but, nevertheless, attract Special attention knowledgeable travelers. The fact is that these statues are “talking”. Yes, yes, there are six “talking” statues in Rome! And although at first glance they are silent, as befits pieces of stone, but, looking into history, we learn that in past eras these statues expressed the “voice of the people.” Back in the 16th century, posters with caustic satirical notes and criticism of the authorities began to be attached to their pedestals. The most famous of these statues is Pasquino, located near Piazza Navona. From her the word “libel” arose. The other talking statues are Marforio in the courtyard of the New Palace, Fachino in the wall of the Roman Bank (Palazzo Carolis), Madame Lucrezia in Piazza San Marco, Abbot Luigi in Piazza Vidoni, and the statue of Babuino on the street of the same name.

We'll see many of these statues on our Travelry Rome tours. The statue of Pasquino is on the tour "" . The statue of Babuino is in the walk “”, and the sculptures of Madame Lucrezia and Facchino are in the free “ ».

Basilica of San Clemente: a journey into the depths of eras

By Luca Aless, via Wikimedia Commons

Michelangelo's masterpiece and the chains of St. Peter

Another interesting Roman church is San Pietro in Vincoli, or St. Peter “in chains.” This name of the temple is due to the fact that it was built in the middle of the 5th century specifically to store the shrine - the iron chains with which the Apostle Peter was shackled when he was kept in custody for preaching about Christ. The chains are kept in a special ark under the central altar. This shrine still attracts pilgrims to this day. But art lovers also flock to the church, knowing that one of Michelangelo’s sculptural masterpieces, the sculpture of Moses, is kept here. To view the creation of the Renaissance master, you don’t have to visit museums or crowd among a huge stream of tourists! You just need to know the places! ;)

Address: Piazza S. Pietro in Vincoli, 4a.

Visit the Church of San Pietro in Vincoli with an audio tour "" and listen interesting story audio guide about the work of Michelangelo and other treasures of this temple.

Crossroads of the Four Fountains: two rivers, two goddesses and three ancient obelisks

Rome is famous for its magnificent fountains. Many of them were built in the Renaissance and Baroque eras. And not just to decorate the city. They had a very practical purpose - the fountains were part of the city water supply system and provided residents with drinking water. Probably, at the intersection of the Four Fountains it was the fastest place to get water - after all, here, judging by the name, there were four water sources at once. These fountains represent two large rivers Italy (Tiber in Rome and Arno in Florence) and two goddesses of ancient Roman mythology (immaculate Diana and strong Juno). But this is not the only interesting thing about the intersection. According to the idea of ​​Pope Sixtus V, who initiated the construction, from the intersection there is a view of three Roman obelisks at once: at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, at the Church of Santissima Trinita dei Monti, which is in Piazza di Spagna, and the obelisk at Quirinal Square.

There is another interesting place in Rome that organically combines ancient history and modernity. Excavations of ancient structures are underway in Torre Argentina. Remains of pagan temples and public buildings have been discovered in this archaeological zone. But when the excavations began, these ruins were chosen by stray cats. At first they were fed spontaneously. In the 1950s, this was done, in particular, famous actress Anna Magnani. And subsequently, these ancient ruins officially became a shelter where about 200 cats live. So, when viewing the remains of ancient structures, try not to disturb the mustachioed and tailed owners of this place too much!

Rome has many interesting places to visit. Arriving in this historical city for one day, you should try to cover the most beautiful and famous of them. You can highlight the top 5 beautiful places in Rome so that you can set off along the planned route in advance.

Piazza del Popolo

Piazza del Popolo was formed in the 16th century. Three main transport routes departed from it, represented by Corso, Babuino and Ripetta streets. At the point where these avenues converge, two churches were built: the oval Santa Maria in Montesanto and the round Santa Maria dei Miracoli.

Piazza del Popolo is surrounded by a balustrade decorated with sculptural allegories. Nowadays it is one of the favorite places of tourists and Romans. Previously, executions were held on the square, but now it is closed to transport. It is beautifully illuminated at night, and the Pincio Gardens spread above it offer views of the beautiful places of Rome. On the square itself there is the gate del Popolo, behind which the pilgrimage of the Flaminian Way begins.

In the center of the square, tourists can see an Egyptian obelisk called the Obelisk of Flaminius. It is a stone pillar that is more than three thousand years old. It was brought to the city as a war trophy. All this will be interesting to watch.

The Trevi Fountain is a very interesting place not only for tourists, but also for local residents. This . It is of impressive size and adjoins the majestic façade of the Palazzo Poli. All this looks like a single whole, which visually makes the fountain even larger, as the architect Nicolo Silva intended.

The Trevi Fountain resembles a scene from an ancient play, which is carved from stone. In this case, water looks like just an addition to the composition, and not its basis. This attraction is interesting to see not only during the day, but also at night. At this time, the fountain is illuminated by a large number of lamps and looks completely different. The warm colors make the sculptures seem to come to life.

Aventine Hill

One can truly say about the Aventine Hill that this is the most beautiful place in Rome. It is one of the 7 hills on which the capital of Italy is located. The Aventine Hill is located on the left bank of the Tiber River. It was previously sparsely populated and located outside the ancient border called Pomeria, which formerly separated the ancient city from the outside world.

Today, Aventine is a marvelous park containing orange groves, as well as cypress and pine alleys. From the top of the Aventine Hill you can see the beautiful places of Rome. The picturesque view that opens up from here is breathtaking. This is what attracts travelers.

Pincho Hill

The Pincio hill is located north of the highest hill of the Quirinal. Initially, it was located outside the city limits, but during the Empire it began to be built up and entered the city limits. Today there are beautiful gardens and luxurious villas on the hill. There are ancient statues and buildings throughout the area. Due to the wide variety of gardens, it is called the hill of gardens. On its central square there is a nine-meter Egyptian obelisk. The current layout around it was designed back in the era of classicism.

You can get to Pincio Hill via two famous stairs. The first of them is the Spanish one, which leads from Piazza del Spagna, and the second is the “Napoleonic” one, leading from Piazza del Popolo. Having climbed the hill, travelers can relax in the shade of trees, sit on a bench or lie down on the grass. The picturesque nature around is conducive to a relaxing holiday after long walks around the city.

Spanish Steps leading to Pincho Hill

Venice Square

It can be called a separate tourist center of Rome due to the fact that it is the most convenient place to start a tour of the city. The square got its name thanks to the Renaissance palace, which was created here in the 15th century.

The main place in Piazza Venice is occupied by the monument to Victor Emmanuel II, who was the first king of Italy. It took 26 years to build it. Inside the monument today there is the Risorgimento Museum. It is dedicated to the history of the struggle for independence in the 19th century. Venice Square also gained its fame due to the fact that Napoleon’s mother lived in one of its houses. It is known that she often sat on the balcony and watched what was happening in the square.

Today tourists can walk around the square and also go up to the observation decks. They offer a wonderful view of the city streets with ancient buildings. Such a magnificent spectacle amazes tourists at any time of the year. From this square you can go in any direction to see other attractions.

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