Rome, the capital of Italy
Throughout much of its long, noble history
Rome was a city-state
unto itself, developing and basking in its own grandeur and uniqueness. Built
on seven hills, halfway between the country's fertile, industrious north and
balmy, Mediterranean south, Rome has been at the center of Italy's empire
building as well as her inspiring cultural and artistic expressions.
It is hard to believe that the Dark or Middle Ages ever existed in a city
so steeped in light and littered with magnificent white marble ruins. The
ancient Romans bequeathed such famous monuments as the
Colosseum,
Forum,
Circus Maximus,
Pantheon,
Baths of Caracalla and Catacombs. From the Renaissance came the
Vatican
City,
St.
Peter's Square & Basilica and a priceless array of art treasures commissioned
by the incomparably wealthy trade dynasties.
Over the centuries, numerous piazzas, palaces, fountains and churches have
congregated, in Rome, to form one of the world's most beautiful cities.
And when in Rome, we suggest doing as the Romans... strolling the
Spanish
Steps and along the shops and cafe culture of the Via Condotti and Via
Veneto or simply tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain. From a seemingly
infinite number of casual city spots, from cafes to street corners, Romans
and visitors alike leisurely view the colorful lifestyle of their beloved
city, as it plays out on a backdrop layered by centuries.
Other major sights:
Palatine
Hill,
Trevi
Fountain,
Vatican
Museums
Getting Around in Rome
Hotels in Rome
| The Westin Excelsior Rome |  |
| from 305 € |
 As Rome's most celebrated avenue, Via Veneto is the cradle of "la dolce vita" immortalized by Fellini. It is also home to the recently refurbished The Westin Excelsior, Rome - its most distinguished address. Named to Condé Nast Traveler's 2002 Gold List, ...
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