Romantic Rome

Transcription

Romantic Rome

Romantic Rome
Rome, 7 Days
Table of contents:
Guide Description 2
Itinerary Overview 3
Daily Itineraries 6
Rome Snapshot 26
1
Guide Description
AUTHOR NOTE: Rome is definitely one of the world's romantic
cities, as immortalized in many movie love stories. The city center
is small enough that much of it can be explored on foot. Visit
in late spring or early summer, when you can enjoy the warm
nights outdoors but avoid the intense day heat that sets in during
summer. From the food and wine to the gardens and ancient art,
this is the perfect place for a romantic vacation to remember.
2
things to do
restaurants
hotels
nightlife
Itinerary Overview
Day 1 - Rome
DAY NOTE: In an equally prime location, yet smaller and much
more intimate, than some of the more famous upscale hotels,
the Scalinata di Spagna is a cozy yet elegant bed and breakfast
right next to the Piazza di Spagna. Ask for a view of the Steps
for the ideal romantic stay. The view from the top of the Steps
is spectacular, and the perfect introduction to Rome. Later on in
the evening, the crowds shouldn't be as extreme. Make your first
Roman meal a late dinner at La Taverna dei Fori, a small familyowned restaurant with great antipasti and pasta dishes.
Piazza di Spagna
Meeting at the Steps
La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali
Palatine (The)
Ancient Rome's residential area for kings, senators,
patricians and emperors
Arco di Costantino
Tribute to Constantine
The Colosseum (Colosseo)
Ancient Rome's largest fighting arena
Gioia Mia
Pizze in the Centro Storico
Hotel Scalinata di Spagna
Top of the Steps
Award-winning taverna
Top of the Steps
Day 2 - Rome
DAY NOTE: Walk or take a bus south from the hotel to the site
of Rome's most spectacular ruins. First, walk around the site of
the Roman Forum, covered with columns that are the remains of
ancient temples and other buildings that composed the center of
Roman life. There are inexpensive guided tours in English given
several times daily, or bring some of your own information, but
either way you'll need a guide since it's hard to distinguish some
of the former buildings without help. Next, visit the Palatine Hill,
said to be where Rome's first homes were built, which charges
admission (but the single ticket is good for both the Hill and
the Colosseum). There's a great view of the city from here, as
well as a museum with a lot of sculptures. Walk to the Arco di
Constantino, Rome's most memorable victory arch, to see all
of its incredible friezes. Nearby is the Colosseum, one of Italy's
most well-known symbols. You'll most likely be offered tours,
pictures, and souvenirs on the surrounding areas, but definitely
choose to bring your own guide materials and explore on your
own. Although you can imagine its former magnificence, this
architectural wonder is still awe-inspiring in its current state.
Share a wood-fired pizza for dinner at the small Gioia Mia, which
also has hearty pastas and other classic dishes.
Roman Forum
Day 3 - Rome
DAY NOTE: On top of one of Rome's seven hills, the one where
the Etruscan's temple of Jupiter once stood, the Capitoline
Museum and other structures on the Piazza di Campidoglio are
full of some of the world's best classical artwork. The name of
Italy's most popular dish internationally (macaroni), Maccheroni
is a trattoria with rustic, traditional Roman ambience, food, and
wine. Try to sit outside for a peaceful lunch. Pretty incredible
whether you're religious or not, the Scala Santa are believed to
be the very steps from Pontius Pilate's home that Jesus walked
up on the way to be crucified. You can "walk" up them on your
knees, or walk along side. One of Rome's most beautiful squares,
Piazza Navona has several beautiful sculptures and fountains.
For dinner, Armando al Pantheon is a family-run restaurant with
lots of classic regional dishes, including unique meat and pasta
dishes.
Capitoline Museum
17th century museum full of artifacts and and art.
Piazza del Campidoglio
Michelangelo's idea
Macheroni
Three Enthusiasts
Scala Santa
The Steps of Sorrow
Famous Roman Forum
3
things to do
restaurants
hotels
nightlife
Itinerary Overview
Piazza Navona
Rome's Favorite Piazza
Armando al Pantheon
Good food in traditional Roman style
Top of the Steps
Day 4 - Rome
DAY NOTE: Full of narrow streets and medieval buildings, the
Trastevere area is perfect for spending a morning walking around
and stopping into its little cafes and shops. On the way to lunch,
stop by the Markets of Trajan, remnants of an ancient bustling
market that has been reused and reshaped over the centuries.
Eat at Sora Margherita, an small and rustic old restaurant with
great hand-rolled pasta. The San Clemente basilica is three
stacked churches, with fascinating history. Make sure to go all the
way down to the oldest part of the building. On summer evenings,
there is an outdoor jazz festival at Villa Celimontana, and you can
sit outside and enjoy a light dinner and a class of Chianti while
you enjoy the music and dancing.
Trastevere
A real Roman neighborhood
Markets of Trajan
river, creating an unbreakable bond. Then head east to visit the
Museo Nazionale di Villa Giulia (National Etruscan Museum) for
a fascinating look into the Etruscans, who lived in the area prior
to the Romans. A tour of the Galleria Borghese is a true can'tmiss, a smaller gallery housed in a majestic villa full of medieval
and Renaissance art, including many Berninis. After, walk around
the surrounding parks and gardens of the Villa Borghese, a green
respite from the bustle right in the middle of the city. See your
entire meal cooked in front of you at the incredible restaurant
Quinzi Gabrieli, which honors the Mediterranean seafood tradition
in a fresh and elegant way.
Ponte Milvio
Rome's defender
National Etruscan Museum (Museo
Nazionale di Villa Giulia)
A mysterious civilization
Galleria Borghese
Dreaming of Paolina
Villa Borghese
A park for the Romans
Quinzi & Gabrieli
Sophisticated & Exclusive
Top of the Steps
2nd century AD shopping mall
Sora Margherita
True Roman cuisine
San Clemente
On three strata
Villa Celimontana
Open-Air Museum
Top of the Steps
Day 5 - Rome
DAY NOTE: Visit Ponte Milvio, where it is tradition for couples to
lock a padlock onto a streetlight and then throw the keys into the
Day 6 - Rome
DAY NOTE: Either get to the Vatican really early to try to avoid
the lines or get a pass to skip the line online ahead of time. The
Vatican grounds themselves should be explored, as they're
covered with gardens, fountains, and artwork. Make sure to
spend some time in the Vatican Museums, which are full of some
of history's best works. The crowning art is, of course, in the
Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo's ceiling and wall frescoes
are truly incredible. Then visit St. Peter's Basilica, which also
holds some famous and beautiful artwork and interior decor. Treat
yourself and your loved one to a long dinner at La Pergola, one of
Italy's best restaurants. In a private park with an unrivaled view of
the city, it's worth every penny.
The Vatican
Seat of the Catholic Church
4
things to do
restaurants
hotels
nightlife
Itinerary Overview
Musei Vaticani (Vatican Museums)
Ristorante Alla Rampa
Sistine Chapel
Filled with masterpieces
Michelangelo's Masterpiece at the Vatican
Regional and international cuisine
Top of the Steps
Basilica di San Pietro (St. Peter's
Basilica)
The home of Catholicism
La Pergola
3 Michelin Stars, One of Italy's Top Restaurants
Top of the Steps
Day 7 - Rome
DAY NOTE: View another incredible yet less crowded monument
in the Castel Sant'Angelo, first created as a mausoleum and is
now a surprisingly intact castle with views of the Vatican and the
Tiber. Grab lunch at the cafe here. The San Giovanni Battista
dei Fiorenti is a huge white cathedral that took over 200 years
to build, and is full of artwork including sculptures by Bernini.
Next, visit the Campo de' Fiori, a beautiful square filled with
shops and restaurants, and that hosts one of Rome's oldest open
air markets. Flowers, spices, food, and lots of other items are
for sale here and fill the air with smells. With a bit of grotesque
history, the Campo was also the place where public executions
took place. For a romantic end to the day, take an evening cruise
of the Tiber down to Isola Tiberina and back. Enjoy the night
air with a late dinner at Ristorante Alla Rampa, which has great
specials and local wines, for a delicious end to your Roman
holiday.
Castel Sant'Angelo
The fall of Tosca
San Giovanni Battista dei Fiorentini
Under the Lily's sign
Campo de' Fiori
Historical executions
Isola Tiberina
An island no longer
5
Day 1 - Rome
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: In an equally prime location, yet smaller and much more intimate, than some of the more famous upscale hotels, the
Scalinata di Spagna is a cozy yet elegant bed and breakfast right next to the Piazza di Spagna. Ask for a view of the Steps for the ideal
romantic stay. The view from the top of the Steps is spectacular, and the perfect introduction to Rome. Later on in the evening, the
crowds shouldn't be as extreme. Make your first Roman meal a late dinner at La Taverna dei Fori, a small family-owned restaurant with
great antipasti and pasta dishes.
contact:
tel: +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist
Information)
fax: +39 6 481 9316 (tourist
information)
http://www.piazzadispagna.it/
location:
piazza di Spagna
Rome 00187
contact:
tel: 39 06 679 8643
location:
16 Via Madonna dei Monti
Rome
1 Piazza di Spagna
DESCRIPTION: An incredible, almost theatrical square with
the lovely Spanish steps leading up to the Chiesa di Trinità dei
Monti. One of the most important fashion shows is held here,
the steps being used as a catwalk. It is now an international
meeting point. The fountain known as the 'Barcaccia' (boat)
was commissioned by Urbano Barberini to commemorate
the alliance made with the King of France, whose coat of
arms can be seen on Trinità dei Monti. The square leads into
several famous streets, Via Dei Condotti, Via Frattina and
Via Borgognona with their luxurious boutiques, and Via Del
Babuino with its antique shops. © wcities.com
.
2 La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali
DESCRIPTION: This place has red-checked tablecloths and candles in Chianti bottles, but don't
let that put you off. The food is incredible at this family-run trattoria. They have a particularly good
specials list and feature interesting, out of the ordinary ragus.
hours:
Mo from 12:00 PM to 03:00
PM,Mo from 07:30 PM to
12:00 AM,We to Su from
12:00 PM to 03:00 PM,We to
Su from 07:30 PM to 12:00
AM
contact:
tel: 06-6793006
fax: 06-69940598
http://www.hotelscalinata.com
location:
Piazza Trinità dei
Monti 17
Rome LA 00187
3 Hotel Scalinata di Spagna
OUR LOCAL EXPERT SAYS:
Scalinata does a beautiful breakfast on its terrace
overlooking Piazza di Spagna.
DESCRIPTION: This is Rome's most famous little boutique
hotel. The deluxe Hassler is across the street but far removed
in price and grandeur from this intimate, upscale B&B at the top
of the Spanish Steps. This delightful little building -- only two
floors are visible from the outside -- is nestled between much
Hotels.com
6
Day 1 - continued...
larger structures. The redecorated interior features small public
rooms with bright print slipcovers, old clocks, and low ceilings.
The decor varies radically from one guest room to the next.
Some have low, beamed ceilings and ancient-looking wood
furniture; others have loftier ceilings and more run-of-the-mill
furniture. © Frommer's
7
Day 2 - Rome
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Walk or take a bus south from the hotel to the site of Rome's most spectacular ruins. First, walk around the site of the
Roman Forum, covered with columns that are the remains of ancient temples and other buildings that composed the center of Roman
life. There are inexpensive guided tours in English given several times daily, or bring some of your own information, but either way you'll
need a guide since it's hard to distinguish some of the former buildings without help. Next, visit the Palatine Hill, said to be where Rome's
first homes were built, which charges admission (but the single ticket is good for both the Hill and the Colosseum). There's a great view
of the city from here, as well as a museum with a lot of sculptures. Walk to the Arco di Constantino, Rome's most memorable victory
arch, to see all of its incredible friezes. Nearby is the Colosseum, one of Italy's most well-known symbols. You'll most likely be offered
tours, pictures, and souvenirs on the surrounding areas, but definitely choose to bring your own guide materials and explore on your
own. Although you can imagine its former magnificence, this architectural wonder is still awe-inspiring in its current state. Share a woodfired pizza for dinner at the small Gioia Mia, which also has hearty pastas and other classic dishes.
contact:
tel: +39 06 3996 7700
http://www.romanforum.org/
location:
Via Romolo Artioli
Rome 00186
contact:
tel: +39 6 699 0110
location:
Via San Gregorio
Rome 00184
1 Roman Forum
DESCRIPTION: The Forum was designed to be the centre of
social, political and economic life in the city. The innumerable
remains include the well-conserved triumphal arch of Emperor
Septimius Severus, with reliefs depicting his victories and the
base of the Temple of Saturn with its eight columns and their
splendid Ionic capitals. The 'Rostrum' is the famous platform
from which Mark Antony gave his oration in Shakespeare's
play after Julius Caesar's assassination. The platform became
the setting for many important events in Rome's history. It was
named the 'rostrum' after the bows of the ships that form the
decorative motif. The Temple of Vesta was the home of the
Vestal Virgins, charged with keeping the sacred flame alight.
The circular foundations still remain, near to a garden in which
traces of the House of the Vestal Virgins can still be seen. The
Basilica of Constantine and Massentius was used as the court,
and the three remaining barrel-vaulted naves give an idea of
its gigantic structure. The Arch of Titus celebrates victories in
Judea, and in the reliefs you can see the spoils of war, including
an altar and a seven-armed chandelier. © wcities.com
.
2 Palatine (The)
Queue up for the House of August and its beautiful
conserved 1st century frescoes.
DESCRIPTION: Just south of the Roman Forum and offering a
stunning view of the ancient city, this area includes imperial and
patrician residences including those of the Emperor Domitian.
Originally the Domus Flavia had walls completely lined with
polished marble - Domitian feared assassination and in this
way he could see the reflection of anyone coming towards him.
The courtyard still has its fine pavement in coloured marble.
.
8
Close by can be seen a number of holes, made for the posts
of huts, possibly dating from the 9th century BC. It is thought
that these were Rome's first huts, attributed by legend to the
hand of Romulus himself.  The Palatine Hill is a top site
in Rome.
© wcities.com
contact:
tel: +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist
Information)
fax: +39 6 481 9316 (Tourism
Board)
http://www.romaturismo.it/v2/
allascopertadiroma/en/itinerar
i09.html
location:
via San Gregorio
Rome 00184
contact:
tel: +39 6 700 4261 / +39 6
700 5469
http://www.museidiroma.com/
colosseo.htm
location:
Piazza del Colosseo
Rome 00184
hours:
Nov-Feb 15 daily
8:30am-4:30pm; Feb 16Mar 15 daily 8:30am-5pm;
Mar 16-Mar 27 daily
8:30am-5:30pm; Mar 28-Aug
daily 8:30am-7:15pm; Sept
daily 8:30am-7pm; Oct daily
8:30am-6pm. Guided tours in
English with an archaeologist
7 times per day Mar 28Oct 30 (9:30am, 10:15am,
11:15am, 12:30pm, 3pm,
4:15pm, and 5:15pm)
3 Arco di Costantino
DESCRIPTION: The Arch of Constantine is particularly
interesting because it is like a jigsaw made up of other
monuments. It was built using material from Trajan's Forum,
from where the statues of the Dacian prisoners and the friezes
representing Marcus Aurelius were also taken. The Arch
was erected at the beginning of the fourth century in honour
of Constantine, following the victory over Maxentius. It is
considered one of the last great monuments to be constructed
by the Romans. It stands beside the Colosseum in the huge
square which in summer is the site for one of the events of the
'Estate Romana'. A huge screen is hung from the arch, onto
which films and videos are projected. © wcities.com
.
4 The Colosseum (Colosseo)
The Colosseo's hypogeum was recently opened for
visitors who wanted a view from the ground up of
the amphitheatre. As the tourist information if you
can book a limited reservation.
.
DESCRIPTION: No visit to Rome is complete without having
seen its magnificent Colosseum, a vast amphitheatre with
seating for 55,000 that was designed as a horse racing circuit
and arena for animal fighting and gladiatorial battles. Upon its
completion, spectacular 100-day celebrations were organized
as part of the opening ceremony in 72 AD. Its name is believed
to come from Nero's enormous statue of Colossus that stood
close by. © wcities.com
9
contact:
tel: 39 6 488 2784
http://www.hoteljulia.it/gioiam
ia.htm
location:
via degli Avignonesi 34
Rome 00187
5 Gioia Mia
DESCRIPTION: Do not be put off by the noise in this central and very
pleasant pizzeria. There are classic pizzas and traditional Roman cuisine
such as Pasta Cacio e Pepe or the delicious Pasta al Amatriciana and
a limited choice of side vegetables lightly cooked with a little hot pepper
(in the Roman tradition. They have a good choice of wines to accompany
your meal. © wcities.com
Gioia Mia
contact:
tel: 06-6793006
fax: 06-69940598
location:
Piazza Trinità dei
Monti 17
Rome LA 00187
Hotels.com
10
Day 3 - Rome
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: On top of one of Rome's seven hills, the one where the Etruscan's temple of Jupiter once stood, the Capitoline Museum
and other structures on the Piazza di Campidoglio are full of some of the world's best classical artwork. The name of Italy's most popular
dish internationally (macaroni), Maccheroni is a trattoria with rustic, traditional Roman ambience, food, and wine. Try to sit outside for a
peaceful lunch. Pretty incredible whether you're religious or not, the Scala Santa are believed to be the very steps from Pontius Pilate's
home that Jesus walked up on the way to be crucified. You can "walk" up them on your knees, or walk along side. One of Rome's most
beautiful squares, Piazza Navona has several beautiful sculptures and fountains. For dinner, Armando al Pantheon is a family-run
restaurant with lots of classic regional dishes, including unique meat and pasta dishes.
contact:
tel: 39682059127
location:
Piazza del Campidoglio
Rome 186
contact:
tel: +39 06 060 608(Tourist
Information)
i05.html
location:
piazza del Campidoglio
Rome 00186
contact:
tel: 06-68307895
http://www.ristorantemaccher
oni.com/
location:
Piazza della Copelle 44
Rome 00186
hours:
Daily noon-3pm and 8pmmidnight
1 Capitoline Museum
DESCRIPTION: Based upon an architectural sketch by Michelangelo, items in this museum range
from first century BC to 17th century AD.
2 Piazza del Campidoglio
DESCRIPTION: Reorganisation of Piazza del Campidoglio began in
1539 as part of a plan undertaken by Pope Paul III. It was the first square
created as part of a plan conceived by Michelangelo in which a space
was created between Palazzo Senatorio and Palazzo dei Conservatori
bounded by a new symmetrical building. The square is in the shape of
a trapezoid with the Palazzo Senatorio on the longer side (the seat of
the city council's administrative offices) and the Capitoline Museums on
either side. Michelangelo also designed the monumental flight of steps
that leads to the square on either side of which were the Dioscuri designed
by Giacomo della Porta. Michelangelo also designed the pavement in
the centre of which stands the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius
which survived the Middle Ages as it was thought that it represented the
Emperor Constantine, the protector of the Christian religion. © wcities.com
wcities
3 Macheroni
DESCRIPTION: Here in the heart of Rome you can dine in a
rustic tavern enjoying traditional Roman food more often found
in the Latium countryside. The decor is informal, with woodpaneled walls and pop art, and on a good night the place seats
160 satisfied diners, both visitors and locals. Pasta is the house
specialty, and it doesn't get better than the spaghetti with bacon
and onion. Also recommended are maccheroni matriciana (a
pasta that comes in a red version with tomatoes, bacon, and
pecorino cheese; and a white version that skips the tomatoes).
Some very tender and juicy beefsteaks are also served. A wellchosen wine list includes a house chianti. © Frommer's
Photo courtesy of Macheroni
11
contact:
tel: +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist
Information)
fax: +39 6 481 9316 (Rome
Tourism Board)
location:
piazza San Giovanni in
Laterano 14
Rome 00184
4 Scala Santa
DESCRIPTION: On Good Friday this location is packed with pilgrims who perform penitence by
climbing these twenty-eight wood-covered steps on their knees. According to tradition, these steps
were trod by Christ when he was led to Pontius Pilate for his trial. St Helen, mother of Emperor
Constantine, brought the steps to Rome from Jerusalem. Pope Sixtus V had them placed in their
present position. They are covered in wood so that no foot can touch them, and this is the reason
why the faithful climb up them on their knees. © wcities.com
contact:
5 Piazza Navona
tel: +39 06 060 608(Tourist
Information)
http://www.romecity.it/Piazza_ DESCRIPTION: During the Christmas season this square is
navona.htm
packed with stalls selling toys, sweets and decorations for the
location:
piazza Navona
Rome 00186
contact:
tel: 39 06 6880 3034
http://www.armandoalpanthe
on.it/
location:
31 Salita de' Crescenzi
Rome 00186
hours:
Midday-3p, 7:15p-11p M-F
Nativity scene or Christmas tree, making it a favourite spot for
children. Its unusual shape recalls the time of Domitian, who
built a stadium for equestrian displays here. The Fountain of the
Rivers, with the obelisk, and the Fountain of the Moor, with the
god of the sea, at the centre of the square, are both by Bernini.
© wcities.com
.
6 Armando al Pantheon
DESCRIPTION: This is a family restaurant and dishes like spelt soup hot
from the kitchen will remind Romans, at least, of their childhood. There
are of course also classical dishes like Pajata and Tripe, and innovations,
such as Rissoles with spelt or duck with plum sauce. The interior is typical
of old Roman trattorias and the air-conditioning is a welcome luxury. ©
wcities.com
wcities
contact:
tel: 06-6793006
fax: 06-69940598
location:
Piazza Trinità dei
Monti 17
Rome LA 00187
Hotels.com
12
13
Day 4 - Rome
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Full of narrow streets and medieval buildings, the Trastevere area is perfect for spending a morning walking around and
stopping into its little cafes and shops. On the way to lunch, stop by the Markets of Trajan, remnants of an ancient bustling market that
has been reused and reshaped over the centuries. Eat at Sora Margherita, an small and rustic old restaurant with great hand-rolled
pasta. The San Clemente basilica is three stacked churches, with fascinating history. Make sure to go all the way down to the oldest
part of the building. On summer evenings, there is an outdoor jazz festival at Villa Celimontana, and you can sit outside and enjoy a light
dinner and a class of Chianti while you enjoy the music and dancing.
contact:
1 Trastevere
tel: +39 06 060 608(Tourist
Information)
fax: +39 (0)6 481 9316 (Roma DESCRIPTION: It is strange to think that this area of Rome was
Tourismo)
originally built to be a city port where storehouses held goods at
location:
Viale di Trastevere
Rome 00153
contact:
tel: +39 6 679 0048
http://www.mercatiditraiano.it/
location:
via 4 Novembre 94
Rome 00187
the time of Augustus and continued to do so until the end of the
19th century. Trastevere then became a downmarket residential
quarter and has now developed into a very desirable quarter.
The heart of the district is Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere
with its lovely church, a 17th century palazzo and a fountain
in the middle which is probably Rome's oldest, having been
designed by architects such as Bernini, Fontana and Della
Porta. There are still some well-conserved medieval houses.
On Sunday mornings, you can visit the 7th Corte dei Vigili in
Via dei Salumi, and if you enter the guards' rooms, you will see
grafitti on the walls written by Roman soldiers who served the
emperors from Septimus Severus to Caracalla, in addition to
notations of their guard duty. © wcities.com
.
2 Markets of Trajan
Stand in the center of the catwalk to absorb the
awesomeness of Trajan's basilica.
DESCRIPTION: This is probably the oldest shopping centre
in the world. Built by the Emperor Trajan in the 2nd century
A.D, it consisted of 150 offices and shops selling food, flowers,
jewellery and wool. The finest shops were decorated with
mosaics depicting the merchandise on sale. Today the shops
are intact, but empty, even though, when the wine-shops were
rediscovered, they were full of amphors of wine. The offices on
the floor above organised the distribution of free rations of corn
to the citizens of Rome.
The recently opened Museum of Imperiali is nearby and a must
see to get a glimpse into Trajan's offices.  It is truly one of
the top sites in Rome.
© wcities.com
wcities
14
contact:
tel: 39 6 686 4002
location:
piazza delle Cinque Scole 30
Rome 00186
hours:
Tu to Fr from 12:30 PM to
03:00 PM,Sa from 12:30 PM
to 03:00 PM,Sa from 08:00
PM to 10:30 PM,Su from
12:30 PM to 03:00 PM
contact:
tel: +39 6 7045 1018
http://www.basilicasanclemen
te.com/
location:
via Labicana 95
Rome 00184
hours:
9a-12:30p & 3:30p-6:30p MSu (closes 6p Oct-Mar)
contact:
tel: +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist
Information)
fax: +39 6 481 9316 (Rome
tourism office)
http://www.villacelimontanaja
zz.com
location:
piazza della Navicella
Rome 00184
contact:
tel: 06-6793006
fax: 06-69940598
location:
Piazza Trinità dei
Monti 17
3 Sora Margherita
DESCRIPTION: This small restaurant run by Margherita serves old Roman cuisine with Jewish
influences. There are dishes that are fixed for the various days of the week, common in Rome,
such as anchovies with endives on Mondays, Rome-style tripe on Wednesdays, cod on Thursdays
and Fridays, and chickpea purée on Friday. Lovely home-made flans. Good Velletri wine by the jug.
Open only at lunchtime. © wcities.com
4 San Clemente
DESCRIPTION: A visit to this basilica is a fascinating journey
through time. From the upper basilica, which dates from
the beginning of the 12th century and whose apse boasts
the mosaic 'The Triumph of the Cross', one passes into the
4th-century lower basilica, and, via a stairway, down to the
roman constructions and to the 'mitreo', a 3rd-century temple
dedicated to the God Mithra. Of particular interest are the
frescoes in the chapel of St. Catherine, painted between
1428 and 1431 by Masolino da Panicale, possibly with the
collaboration of Masaccio. © wcities.com
wcities
5 Villa Celimontana
DESCRIPTION: The lovely Villa Celimontana was originally
a vineyard that was bought by the Mattei family to whom the
new design of the gardens is owed. On the Celio hill, it has long
attracted visitors with the beauty of the villa and the trees and
ancient marbles in its gardens, including an obelisk from the
times of Ramses II. It became the property of various foreigners
until 1918 when it was confiscated by the Italian state. The last
owner, Baron Riccardo Hoffmann, contributed to its expansion
and added a small Neo-Gothic temple, which is now the home
of the Italian Geographic Society. The villa is as beautiful as
ever and a lovely spot to pass a few hours (or take in the
talents of renowned musicians at the Jazz & Image festival). ©
wcities.com
wcities
Hotels.com
15
Rome LA 00187
16
Day 5 - Rome
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Visit Ponte Milvio, where it is tradition for couples to lock a padlock onto a streetlight and then throw the keys into the river,
creating an unbreakable bond. Then head east to visit the Museo Nazionale di Villa Giulia (National Etruscan Museum) for a fascinating
look into the Etruscans, who lived in the area prior to the Romans. A tour of the Galleria Borghese is a true can't-miss, a smaller gallery
housed in a majestic villa full of medieval and Renaissance art, including many Berninis. After, walk around the surrounding parks and
gardens of the Villa Borghese, a green respite from the bustle right in the middle of the city. See your entire meal cooked in front of you
at the incredible restaurant Quinzi Gabrieli, which honors the Mediterranean seafood tradition in a fresh and elegant way.
location:
lungotevere Milvio
Rome 00191
1 Ponte Milvio
DESCRIPTION: One of the oldest bridges of Rome, it dates
back to 109 B.C., although there is evidence showing that there
was a timber bridge here for at least a century earlier. Known
as 'Mollo' (springy) because of its elasticity, it has been used
throughout the centuries to keep invaders out. Repeatedly
restored from the 11th century, in the early 19th century,
architect Giuseppe Valadier removed the two drawbridges
and built two masonry arches. The last restoration came after
Garibaldi's troops blew up part of the span in order to defend
the city from the French troops. © wcities.com
contact:
tel: +39 6 320 1706 / +39 6
322 6571
http://www.villaborghese.it/
location:
Piazzale di Villa Giulia 9
Rome 00196
hours:
8:30a-7:30p Tu-Su
.
2 National Etruscan Museum
(Museo Nazionale di Villa Giulia)
DESCRIPTION: This splendid Renaissance villa, built for
Pope Giulio III, houses an important collection of Etruscan
treasures found mainly in graves and tombs. The Tomb of
the Newlyweds is one of the most famous pieces here, and
was probably designed to contain the remains of a couple.
There is a reconstruction of a temple in the garden, illustrating
the Etruscans' love of detail. The water garden in front of the
museum decorated with mosaics, fountains, and statues, and
the frescoes inside the colonnaded loggia are worth noting. A
recent piece is a 5th century terracotta relief, which shows the
Grecian influence on Etruscan art. © wcities.com
wcities
contact:
3 Galleria Borghese
tel: +39 6 841 3979
fax: +39 6 3265 1329
http://www.galleriaborghese.it/ DESCRIPTION: This collection is housed in a building
location:
Piazza Scipione Borghese 5
Rome Lazio 00197
hours:
9a-7p Tu-Su
constructed in 1613 for Cardinal Scipione Borghese, one
of Bernini's greatest patrons. In fact, this great sculptor has
exhibited some of his most famous sculptures here; amongst
them is the renowned 'Apollo and Daphne.' When one thinks
of the Museo Borghese, the sculpture that immediately springs
to mind is Canova's 'Pauline Borghese,' in which she poses
as Venus, wearing just a drape around her midriff. There are
six major pieces by Caravaggio in the Galleria, including 'The
wcities
17
boy with a basket of fruit' and the 'Madonna della Serpe.'
Titian is also represented with 'Sacred and Profane Love,'
Rafael with 'The Deposition,' and there are important works by
Correggio. The gallery can only hold 300 visitors at a time, so it
is advisable to book in advance. © wcities.com
contact:
tel: +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist
Information)
fax: +39 6 481 9316 (Tourism
Board)
http://www.villaborghese.it
location:
piazzale del Museo Borghese
5
Rome 00196
hours:
Dawn-dusk
contact:
tel: 06-6879389
fax: +39 06 687 4940
http://www.quinziegabrieli.it/
location:
Via delle Coppelle 5-6
Rome 00185 00186
hours:
Tues-Fri 12:30-2:30pm and
7:45-11pm, Mon and Sat
7:45-11pm
contact:
tel: 06-6793006
fax: 06-69940598
location:
Piazza Trinità dei
Monti 17
Rome LA 00187
4 Villa Borghese
DESCRIPTION: Design of the villa began at the start of the
17th century when Pope Paul V Borghese was elected. Its
style resembles that of city villas from 100 years earlier. The
gardens were especially cared for - aviaries were added to
house exotic birds and areas of the gardens were stocked with
peacocks, ostriches, gazelles and even lions. Over the years,
the garden was altered into an English-style space designed
by Jacob Moore. One of the park's loveliest areas is the Lake
Garden, which is enclosed by a railing that emphasises the
lake's irregular shape. In the centre of an artificial island, a
temple was built dedicated to Aesculapius. The famous Square
of Siena has been the scene of horse-jumping and carriageracing competitions since it was first built. © wcities.com
wcities
5 Quinzi & Gabrieli
DESCRIPTION: We've never found better or fresher seafood than what's served in this 15thcentury building. Don't be put off by the rough-and-ready service; just enjoy the great food. Alberto
Quinzi and Anna Gabrieli earned their reputation on their simply cooked and presented fresh
fish, such as sea urchin, octopus, sole, and red mullet. They're also known for their raw seafood,
including a delicate carpaccio of swordfish, sea bass, and deep-sea shrimp. The house specialty is
spaghetti with lobster. In summer, French doors lead to a small dining terrace. © Frommer's
Hotels.com
18
19
Day 6 - Rome
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Either get to the Vatican really early to try to avoid the lines or get a pass to skip the line online ahead of time. The Vatican
grounds themselves should be explored, as they're covered with gardens, fountains, and artwork. Make sure to spend some time
in the Vatican Museums, which are full of some of history's best works. The crowning art is, of course, in the Sistine Chapel, where
Michelangelo's ceiling and wall frescoes are truly incredible. Then visit St. Peter's Basilica, which also holds some famous and beautiful
artwork and interior decor. Treat yourself and your loved one to a long dinner at La Pergola, one of Italy's best restaurants. In a private
park with an unrivaled view of the city, it's worth every penny.
contact:
tel: +39 06 6982
(Switchboard)
fax: +39 06 6988 5518
http://www.vatican.va
location:
viale Vaticano
Rome
1 The Vatican
DESCRIPTION: The Vatican is among the most important
historical sites in the world. The seat of the Holy Roman
Catholic Church, The Vatican is also the home of the Pope.
As the smallest state in the world, the Vatican has figured
in key events throughout history. Occupying about one half
kilometer of Rome, The Vatican is further significant because
of its fabulous architecture, religious, and artistic treasures.
It was Pope Julius II della Rovere in the 16th century who
commissioned Michelangelo to paint the history of creation
on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Among countless other
notable events in the history of this important city are the
convening of the College of Cardinals, at the death of a reigning
Pontiff, for the purposes of electing a new Pope. No visit to
Rome is complete without an excursion to The Vatican, a place
so steeped in history and tradition that you will never forget it. ©
wcities.com
Photo courtesy of the Vatican State
contact:
2 Musei Vaticani (Vatican Museums)
tel: +39 (0)6 6988 3041
fax: +39 (0)6 6988 5236
http://mv.vatican.va/3_EN/pag DESCRIPTION: This unique art collection is exhibited in
es/MV_Home.html
surroundings of unparalleled beauty. The magnificent Raphael
location:
Viale Vaticano
Rome 00165
hours:
M-F 8:45a- 3:45p, Sa
1p-4:45p
Rooms are among the masterpieces of the collection, where
each room is decorated with frescoes by great artists. The best
known is The School of Athens, in which contemporary artists
appear as classical characters (Leonardo da Vinci, for example,
appears as Plato). The Sistine Chapel is the museum's finest
treasure, and features Michelangelo's famous Last Judgement.
He was one of many artists including Perugino, Botticelli,
Ghirlandaio and Pinturicchio who contributed to the chapel. ©
wcities.com
.
20
contact:
tel: +39 068 530 1758
fax: +39 068 530 1756
http://www.vatican.va
location:
viale Vaticano
Rome
hours:
M-F 8:45 a-4:45 p, Sa
8:45a-1:45p
contact:
tel: +39 (0)6 48 8991 (Tourist
Information)
fax: +39 (0)6 481 9316
(Tourism Board)
http://www.romaturismo.com/
v2/operatoriprofessionali/it/sp
ietro.html
location:
piazza San Pietro
Rome 00193
hours:
24 hrs
contact:
tel: 06-35092152
http://www.romecavalieri.com
/lapergola.php
location:
Via Cadlolo 101
Rome 00136
hours:
Tues-Sat 7:30pm-midnight
3 Sistine Chapel
DESCRIPTION: Visiting Rome for the first time, visitors must
experience the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican structure with 50
million monthly visitors. The Chapel was built between 1477
and 1481 by Pope Sixtus IV. From 1480 to 1483 the walls
were decorated by famous artists of Renaissance, such as
Botticelli, Perugino, Ghirlandaio. After twenty years, Julius II
commissioned Michelangelo to decorate the ceiling in 1508.
Today, after the restoration, tourists can visit the chapel and
see Michelangelo's 'Last Judgement'. The Vatican has placed
its enormous art collection on the Web in hopes that it will
attract more tourists. The site allows visitors to take a virtual
reality tour of some of the dozen museums and galleries that
make up the Vatican collection, viewing Michelangelo's Sistine
Chapel with a three-dimensional video. At the Chapel, you
will invariably find it crowded with hundreds of tourists, so
be prepared. The best way to see it is to go to the Vatican
Museums early, so that you're among the first in line when
they open. Silence should be observed and photography is not
prohibited. © wcities.com
wcities
4 Basilica di San Pietro (St. Peter's
Basilica)
DESCRIPTION: People come by the millions each year to
receive the Pope's blessing, traditionally given on Sundays at
noon. St Peter's has undergone many transformations since the
original Constantine basilica of AD320. The top of its majestic
dome (designed by Michelangelo), provides the best vantage
point from which to marvel at Bernini's magnificent colonnade
surrounding the square, the gilded bronze canopy above the
altar and Michelangelo's Pietà. Bramante, Pietro da Cortona
and Canova are just a handful of the many other artists who
worked together on this monumental basilica's decoration and
design. © wcities.com
.
5 La Pergola
Peruse the water menu with its international
selection of l'eau. Likewise, the dessert tasting of
mini-chocolates is spectacular.
DESCRIPTION: International critics consider la Pergola the
best restaurant in Rome for its outstanding menu by Heinz
Beck and its superb view of Rome, from the precipice of Monte
Mario.  Nouvelle cuisine which changes seasonally
and to Beck's whim caters to the glitterati of gastronome
elite.  The atmosphere and setting is elegant-- 
tromple l'oeil, marble, and masterpieces, and service is beyond
Photo courtesy of La Pergola
21
exemplary.  According to Frommers, the staff functions
so beautifully they've been compared to a Viennese orchestra.
Though the menu changes seasonally, the water menu does
not.  Take a look, its definitely worth the wait.
© NileGuide
contact:
tel: 06-6793006
fax: 06-69940598
location:
Piazza Trinità dei
Monti 17
Rome LA 00187
Hotels.com
22
Day 7 - Rome
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: View another incredible yet less crowded monument in the Castel Sant'Angelo, first created as a mausoleum and is now a
surprisingly intact castle with views of the Vatican and the Tiber. Grab lunch at the cafe here. The San Giovanni Battista dei Fiorenti is
a huge white cathedral that took over 200 years to build, and is full of artwork including sculptures by Bernini. Next, visit the Campo de'
Fiori, a beautiful square filled with shops and restaurants, and that hosts one of Rome's oldest open air markets. Flowers, spices, food,
and lots of other items are for sale here and fill the air with smells. With a bit of grotesque history, the Campo was also the place where
public executions took place. For a romantic end to the day, take an evening cruise of the Tiber down to Isola Tiberina and back. Enjoy
the night air with a late dinner at Ristorante Alla Rampa, which has great specials and local wines, for a delicious end to your Roman
holiday.
contact:
tel: +39 6 328 691
http://www.castelsantangelo.c
om/
location:
Lungotevere Castello 50
Rome 00193
hours:
Tues-Sun 9am-7pm
contact:
tel: +39 6 6889 2059
http://www.vicariatusurbis.org/
location:
via Acciaioli 2
Rome 00186
hours:
9a-noon, 3p-6p M-Su
1 Castel Sant'Angelo
DESCRIPTION: The splendid fortress of Castel Sant'Angelo
was originally built as a mausoleum for the Emperor Hadrian
in 139 AD. In the 10th century AD it was transformed into a
castle, then, 500 years later, into the elegant residence of Pope
Alexander VI Borgia. Michelangelo designed the marvellous
main court for Pope Leon X and many of the rooms inside are
decorated with frescoes of great beauty. It's also been used
to house prisoners, including the sculptor Benvenuto Cellini.
The terrace offers a fine view of the river Tiber and opera lovers
will know that this was where the final act of Puccini's opera
"Tosca" took place. The building is now a museum with a fine
collection of suits of armour. © wcities.com
.
2 San Giovanni Battista dei Fiorentini
DESCRIPTION: This church was built at the beginning of the 16th century
for the Florentine community in Rome. A competition was held by the
Medici Pope Leo X and Jacopo Sansovino was declared the winner.
The work continued by Antonio da Sangallo il Giovane, who built the
foundations, and then by Giacomo Della Porta and Maderno, who built
the dome. Michelangelo submitted a design but it was never used. This
church holds many works by famous artists: an altar-piece by Salvator
Rosa depicting the saints Cosma and Damiano, frescoes by Pomarancio,
and a lovely sepulchral monument by Borromini who is buried in this
church together with his relative Carlo Maderno. © wcities.com
wcities
23
contact:
tel: +39 06 060 608(Tourist
Information)
i07.html
location:
piazza Campo de' Fiori
Rome 00186
3 Campo de' Fiori
DESCRIPTION: Tradition says that Campo dei Fiori was named after the
woman loved by Pompey, Flora, but it is more likely to have come from
something a bit less romantic: in the 14th century, Campo dei Fiori was
a long-abandoned field filled with flowers. In the second half of the 19th
century the square was used for a colourful market that has been held
each morning since then. It was also the scene of many executions, most
notably that of Giordano Bruno, the philosopher who was burned here in
1600. The statue dedicated to him replaced a fountain that was moved to
the nearby Chiesa Nuova square, and a reproduction of it was moved to
the side of the Campo dei Fiori. © wcities.com
wcities
contact:
4 Isola Tiberina
tel: +39 (0)6 48 8991 (Tourism
Information)
http://www.romaturismo.it/v2/ DESCRIPTION: Tiberina Island is linked to the banks of
allascopertadiroma/en/itinerar the river by two bridges, the Fabricio and Cestio. Today, in
i03.html
order to protect Tiberina from the current, the 'bows' have
location:
lungotevere dei Cenci
Rome 00186
hours:
24 hrs
contact:
tel: 39 06 678 2621
fax: +39 06 678 6861
http://www.allarampa.it/
location:
piazza Mignanelli 18
Rome 00186
been extended right up to one of the pillars of the Garibaldi
bridge. Some ancient buildings can still be seen, like the
Caetani tower dating to the Middle Ages, and the church of
San Bartolomeo that was built on the site of the temple of
Esculapius. Unfortunately nothing is left of the 10th century
church as it was almost entirely rebuilt in the 17th century. ©
wcities.com
wcities
5 Ristorante Alla Rampa
DESCRIPTION: In good weather the garden and the lovely
square are used to seat guests who face Trinità dei Monti.
The speciality is Penne Alla Rampa with Gruyère and Speck,
and the dishes are mostly traditional like the Ravioli filled
with Spinach and Ricotta Cheese and the Tonnarelli with
Mazzancolle. The pasta is made on the premises. The meat
dishes are very good such as the Escalopes with Calvados,
Carpaccio and Ossobuco to name but a few. The desserts are
made on the premises and there is a good choice of wines. The
furnishings are traditional but not overly so, the tablecloths are
crisp and fresh, and in summer the air-conditioning reduces the
heat. The tables are well arranged so that even if the restaurant
is full you can still eat comfortably. © wcities.com
wcities
24
contact:
tel: 06-6793006
fax: 06-69940598
location:
Piazza Trinità dei
Monti 17
Rome LA 00187
Hotels.com
25
Rome Snapshot
Local Info
Rome is a city that cannot be described
in few words. With more than 2,500 years
of history, hundreds of thousands of art
works, monuments, and beautiful views,
the aptly named Eternal City is interwoven
with unparalleled history, beauty and
drama. Every monument, palazzo, park
and piazza are testament to the many rises
and falls of Rome, from its early Republican
birth and Imperial age through to its 21st
century incarnation. Likened to a gigantic
open-air museum, Rome is living history,
and every year the city hosts millions of
visitors-- tourists, scholars and pilgrims-from all over the world. It is chaotic, friendly,
aggressive and relaxed; in essence a
charming contradiction that wins the hearts
of its visitors, who always return.
Rome is famously noted as being built
on seven hills-- the Quirinale, Viminale,
Esquilino, Celio, Aventine, Capitoline,
and Palatine. The birth of Rome starts on
thePalatine, a small shepherding settlement
where, as tradition says, Romulus lived
when he founded the city. Historically,
the Palatine was the"it" hill where Rome's
celebrated leaders lived from the kings
of 7th to 5th centuries, to the Republican
senators and patricians and the Imperial
Age's emperors. TheCapitoline hill
represents Rome itself. It was the center
of the Empire, home to the most important
temples(which served for religious as
well as political significance) from the 7th
century BC through Rome's changing
times. Today, the Capitoline hill is centered
by the Michelangelo-designed Piazza del
Campidoglio, with the statue of Emperor
Marcus Aurelius on horseback at the very
center. Lining the piazza are the Capitoline
Museums, Italy's most precious sculpture
collection and Rome's city hall.
The highest of Rome's seven hills,
theQuirinale, is home to Palazzo del
Quirinale, a former papal and monarchy
residence and now the palace of Italy's
reigning president. Noteworthy is the
open piazza, with its looming obelisk and
equestrian statues. Opposite the Palazzo
is theScuderie, formerly stables and now
a gorgeous temporary exposition space
for international exhibitions. The base of
the Quirinale was partially dismantled by
Emperor Trajan at the beginning of the 2nd
century. What remains are the markets of
Trajan and Trajan's column, marking the
height of the hill. TheViminale stands next
to Quirinale and is smaller in size. The hill
is bisected by Via Nazionale, a shopping
street where the early 20th century Palazzo
delle Esposizioni building resides, and
leads upward to the majestic Piazza della
Repubblica, a favorite piazza for its doublesided arcade of columns and playful
Naiad fountain. Just behind the piazza is
Rome's principal railway station, Stazione
Termini. Roman poets Virgil and Horace
lived on theEsquiline hill, now a very busy
neighborhood which encompasses the
popular Monti district. The Esquiline's
terrain includes three peaks, one of which is
Monte Oppio, where Nero built his infamous
Domus Aurea. Below the Esquiline and
behind the Colosseum is theCelio, Rome's
greenest and most charming hill where the
lovely Villa Celimontana park is located.
TheAventine, seen from the peak of the
Palatine, past the Circus Maximus, is
a quiet, residential neighborhood, with
remains of Rome's original 3rd century wall.
Rome has expanded these seven hills, and
in a city full of hundreds of rooftops and
domes like San Pietro(St. Peter's Basilica),
some of the most beautiful panoramas can
be seen from the hills of Montemario, the
Pincio and the Janiculum.
© NileGuide
History
The history of Rome is based on myth,
which Romans proudly celebrate April 21.
Rome's beginnings start with the fall of Troy
and Aeneas's escape from the burning
city. Fleeing by ship, Aeneas landed on the
Italian peninsula and establishes Albalunga,
a community in Lazio. As myth recounts,
Aeneas' descendant Rhea Silvia was forced
to become a Vestal Virgin so as not to bear
children. However, Rhea Silvia was loved
by the god Mars and bore him twin sons,
Romulus and Remus, who were placed
in a basket in the Tiber River to be killed.
But the twins washed ashore close to the
Palatine hill and were nurtured by a shewolf and eventually raised by a shepherd.
Romulus and Remus grow up and take
residence on the Palatine and Aventinte
hills, respectively. According to the myth,
the brothers argued over who would be the
foretold founder of an empire so Romulus
killed Remus and founded the city of Rome
on April 21, 753 BC.
Rome's ancient history covers three
distinct periods—the Age of the Kings,
the Republican Age and the Imperial
Age. From Romulus, the small hillside
community was ruled by the"king of
the hill" until 510 BC. Seven historic
kings who change Rome from a small
shepherding town into a cosmopolitan
city with complex governing and trading
programs and an impressive drainage
system. With its constant exposure to far
more democratic states, especially Greece,
Rome's kings were ousted and in its place
was an advanced republic, which is the
blueprint for all future democracies. The
republic was also characterized by internal
struggles that eventually due to the rise
of the plebeians(lower class Romans).
The Republic was not just city, but a
concept that expanded through Lazio,
the Italic peninsula and eventually the
Mediterranean. For almost four centuries,
Rome built unparalleled and nearly infallible
republic, accomplishing what Greece,
Persia and Egypt could not-- the unification
of the East and West.
Corruption was rampant, likewise egos
and the Republic was shattered with the
death of Julius Caesar on March 15, 44
BC. Chaos reigned but 31 BC marks the
beginning of the Empire, under Augustus
Caesar. The imperial age opened with
a long period of peace, Pax Romanus,
under the iron grip of Augustus. And by
the beginning of the 2nd century under
Trajan, the empire's expanse was in its full
glory. However, instability and corruption
were popular within the empire and
likewise within the psyche of the Emperors.
Centuries forward brought dilution of
the boundaries and of the emperors.
Christianity, legalized under Constantine
in 312 AD, began to spread and create a
strong presence that challenged imperial
regime.
The official fall of Rome is marked at 476
AD, but its decline was seen much earlier.
The causes are many: constant relocation
of the capital, uncontrollable subjects,
26
Rome Snapshot continued
quixotic social and economic changes,
and finally the arrival and strength of the
barbarian tribes. Rome was left as a bandit
town, a gangland and an abyss through
the Middle Ages. The only ruling party was
papal, but again, the city was anarchy.
However, the Pope's power evolved from
religious to military, and through out the
centuries grew exponentially. In 1377,
Rome was established as official papal
headquarters and by the end of the 15th
century, its cultural impact on the city was
seen in the papal beautification programs
—essentially urban planning. The face of
the city changed, as palaces, villas, piazzas
and churches were built. New streets were
created and the basilica of Saint Peter was
leveled and rebuilt, followed by two more
centuries of expansion and beautification.
Clashes continued between the papacy and
Rome's people, and in the beginning of the
1800s, Napoleon changed the landscape
as church's estates were confiscated
and divided amongst French officials and
Italian laymen. The 1800s were an era of
unrest through out the Peninsula, with the
rising campaign to overthrow the pope and
install a monarchy. In 1870, the campaign
succeeded and Italy was established as a
country free of papal rule, led by both a king
and parliament with Rome as its capital. In
1923, Mussolini was elected to Parliament
and eventually becomes 20th century tyrant
heralding Fascism. World War II caused
tantamount strife in Italy as Italy was first
part of the axis and then surrendered to the
Allied forces in 1943, leading Germany to
occupy Rome for over 9 months as the King
fled. The city was bombed by the Allies
and in April 1944 it was liberated. In 1946,
Italy became once again a republic, exiling
its monarchy, and ever since, Rome has
been the hotbed of Italy's whimsical politics.
© NileGuide
Hotel Insights
The"Eternal City" holds a fascination for
anyone in search of history or just plain
beauty. Students, tourists, businessmen
and pilgrims visit Rome at any time of the
year, maintaining an uninterrupted flow of
tourism that redefines the Eternal moniker.
Despite Rome’s abundance of hotels, it is
not always easy to find a last-minute room,
so make sure to research and reserve in
advance.
Centro Storico(Historic Center)
The majority of hotels, both luxury and
lax, are found Rome’s historic center.
Traditionally,Via Veneto is home to Rome’s
most expensive and luxurious including
theAmbasciatori Palace, theHotelMajestic,
theWestin Excelsior and theEden—
all making deserved appearance in
Federico Fellini's filmLa Dolce Vita.
Heading down the hill, Rome’s other
exclusive addresses are the Bernini Bristol
overlooking theFountain of Triton, and the
omnipotentHassler Villa Medici, at the top
of the Trinità dei Monti steps. Now luxury
can be found all over the city, from the
majesticExedra at Piazza della Repubblica
to the celebrity favoriteDe Russie at
Piazza del Popolo. For those wanting
a little Grand Tour charm, theValadier
inPiazza del Popolo, theD'Inghilterra and
theDei Borgognoni near the lively Piazza
di Spagna, all provide a room with a very
beautiful view.
For less chaos and green, the upperclass
and very residential Parioli neighborhood
has the swankyLord Byron hotel, a favorite
among business travelers and trystseekers.
© NileGuide
Restaurants Insights
There is a wide, varied selection as far
as gastronomy is concerned in Rome;
choices range from exclusive high-level
cuisine, developed by some of the most
famous chefs on the international scene
to traditional, heartyRomanesca fare in all
its manifold variations; from Jewish cuisine
andtestaccina recipes to the specialties
of Lazio and ethnic dishes, which can be
sampled in the plethora of restaurants that
offer delights from all over the world.
The only way to really understand the
heart and soul of Rome is by tasting its
culinary splendors in a popular restaurant,
this allows you to steep yourself in Roman
culture while you discover the tastes and
flavors of traditional cooking through the
ages.
Affordable accommodations pepper the city,
and some popular pads are found in and
around the nooks of Campo dei Fiori, the
Pantheon and Piazza Navona, likeHotel
Teatro di Pompeo, Albergo del Sole and
Relais Palazzo Taverna. If antiquity is of
most importance, theForty-Seven,Inn at the
Forum and Hotel Gladiatori, with amazing
forum and colosseum views, may just fit
your needs.
Delicious Roman cuisine stems from a time
when people were unable to afford a meal
made with meat, and therefore had to use
offal, which at that time was considered
less"prestigious" but definitely more
affordable. Over the centuries, traditional
dishes likecoda alla vaccinara(oxtail cooked
with wine, tomatoes and peppers),la
pajata,(veal's offal cooked in a tomato
sauce),l'abbacchio alla scottadito andla
trippa alla romana(tripe), have come to be
considered as delicacies and are eaten by
even the most refined palates.
Termini
Centro Storico(Historic Center)
Manypensioni and bed& breakfasts are
found around Termini station. They are
almost always privately run, simply and
cheap, making them an ideal choice for
budget traveling. The Bee Hive is Rome’s
favorite for atmosphere and affordability.
If in search of high-class food, Rome offers
a great choice of quality restaurants. There
are elegant places in the more exclusive
hotels, such as La Pergola dell'Hotel
Hilton, the Terrazza dell'Hotel Eden or La
Veranda dell'Hotel Majestic. You can also
try the delights of creative haute cuisine
at restaurants such as Quinzi& Gabrieli,
Alberto Ciarla, and Le Sans Souci. Tucked
away down a small alley, the exclusive Il
Convivio Troiani can be hard to fine, but if
you are looking for Italianalta cucina this is
your place. Agata e Romeo have offered
family run fine dining for three generations.
Romeo is an expert sommelier and the
Trastevere
The Trastevere neighborhood has a
broad range of hotels, from the luxurious
Hotel Donna Camilla Savelli to the more
outrageous Goodnight Garibaldi.
Parioli/Flaminio
27
restaurant has over 1500 labels in its
cellar. Romolo nel Giardino della Fornarina
in Trastevere is the perfect setting for a
romantic evening; dine outside in the lowlit courtyard where Raphael is said to have
courted his lady La Fornarina. Nino is a
cozy option, offering classic Roman and
Tuscan cuisine in a warm environment. Or,
if you are looking for pizza in the center,
try Da Baffetto, which has been serving up
some of best around since the 1960s.
Inspired by the popular filmBabette's Feast,
Ristorante Babette has the feel of a 1920s
French bistro. Gusto 28 also has a chic
early 20th-century feel, and is especially
known for its seafood dishes and variety of
vegetarian plates. Ancient meets modern
at L'Acino Brillo, where creative cuisine and
contemporary decor blend delightfully in
this hip restaurant and wine bar.
of high quality pizza parlors. Remo, in the
heart of Testaccio, offers outdoor seating
and hip younger crowd. In addition to
pizza, don't miss other delicious Roman
offerings found at pizzerie and trattorie,
such asSupplì al telefono, fried rice balls
filled with mozzarella, potato croquettes,
fried cod fillets, fried pumpkin flowers,
andbruschette,(slices of toasted bread with
tomato or oil and garlic).
Termini
Est! Est!! Est!!! has been around since the
early 1900s, and serves thick-crusted pan
pizzas as opposed to traditional Roman thin
crusted pies. This is a great option if you
are in the center of the city and don't feel
like heading over to the many pizzerie over
in the Trastevere.
Vaticano
Rosati is also in the center and offers great
views with their coffee. A celebrity hot spot
during the 1960s and 1970s, they also have
a dining room if your espresso leaves you
wanting more. Obika off Piazza Navona
offers something unique yet stillveramente
italiano- a fresh mozzarella bar. A number
of varieties of one of Italy's most famous
cheeses are served here, accompanied by
a nice selection of meats, vegetables and
sauces.
For gelato, Gelateria Pellacchia in the
historical center offers some of Rome's
best, as well as coffees and panini.
©
A relaxing way to enjoy a snack or evening
coffee is at one of Rome's many cafés,
usually serving coffee, gelato, panini and
snacks. The elegant Ciampini is located
atop the Spanish Steps, and offers amazing
views of the city. The famed Antico Caffè
Greco is one of Rome's oldest(open since
the 1760), and is definitely one of its most
exclusive.
Theater
Trastevere
Pizzerias and trattorie are definitely the
most popular places to dine in Rome:
informal, economical and with speedy
service, they are home topizza alla romana,
pizzas with a thin crust and a crispy edge,
as opposed to the soft raised crusts of
the Neapolitan pizza; however, if you are
craving a taste of bella Napoli, you can't
do any better than Da Vittorio. You will
find pizzerias in every corner of the city,
but Trastevere offers an especially wide
choice of pizza restaurants with wood
fueled ovens(these give the pizza a more
intense flavor). Panattoni, Ivo, Dar Poeta,
Roma Sparita, Arco di San Calisto, are just
some of the places from a wide selection
Nightlife Insights
Rome's beauty is accessible both day and
night and the same is to be said for its vast
range of entertainment—theater, cinema,
opera, discos; the list is(almost) endless.
The theatrical season lasts from October
to May and it can often continue through
the summer months. Most theatres offer a
range of plays and productions, but there
is one very special exception: The Sistina
is the undisputed home of musicals. There
are numerous private, experimental and
avant-garde theatres often hosting young
artists and offering stimulating, thoughtprovoking works. The Abraxa Teatro, is
home to an innovative company, who seek
to express themselves and their ideas by
using their bodies rather than speech. If
your tastes are a little more traditional,
historic theatres such as Teatro Argentina,
Valle and the Nazionale offer high quality
performances by famous actors and theatre
companies. The Teatro della Cometa and
the Teatro Flaiano offer light comedies.
Cinema
The cinemas in Rome have greatly
improved over the past few years. Many
new multiplexes have been built and
other cinemas have been completely
restored. The cinema scene in Rome
today is characterized by a fair amount
of small, independent cinemas and many
large, modern multiscreen cinemas;
these cinemas almost exclusively show
commercial films. Some of the better
known independent cinemas such as
the Greenwich, the Intrastevere, and
the Labirinto have united to formCircuito
Cinema, a society interested in promoting
innovative films, created in an attempt
to confront the supremacy of the large
distribution companies. Warner Moderno,
Metropolitan, Nuovo Sacher and Alcatraz
often show English-language films.
Summer is definitely the most romantic time
to enjoy a film at the outdoor cinema on
Isola Tiberina.
Live Music
Live music is popular in Rome. There are
an increasing number of places offering live
music from Italy, America, England, Africa
and South America. The most successful
venues are concentrated in certain areas
such as the Testaccio quarter, including
places like Akab and Radio Londra. The
Trastevere quarter is the home of the
historic Big Mama. The Alexanderplatz in
Trionfale is also recommended.
Classical Music
Classical music lovers are also catered
for, the city has a varied concert season;
there is chamber music at the Accademia
di Santa Cecilia and the Gonfalone
organizes delightful baroque music
concerts. The"symphony season" at
the Teatro dell'Opera takes place in
Terme di Caracalla during the summer,
but the Associazione Il Tempietto offers
concerts throughout the year. The elegantly
furnished and imposing Teatro dell'Opera
is the only theatre in Rome, which offers
an operatic season of any importance and
in summer, opera is performed outdoors in
the enchanting Terme di Caracalla or the
Piazza di Siena.
Discotheques
Discos are very popular amongst the
glamorous Romans; the elegant, formal
crowd(politicians, actors and VIPs)
often like to go to 1980s style clubs. The
more"serious" clubbers frequent Via
Galvani in Testaccio, the heart of Rome's
night life. During the summer months,
many discos relocate to the beaches of
Fregene and Ostia, and some even to the
Tiber banks for RomaEstate.
28
Pubs& Bars
Discos aren't the only places that are
popular on the weekend; pubs, beer
gardens, restaurants and bars all teem with
life. Many of theselocali perform more than
one function. For example, a cocktail bar
will sell beer or allow you to surf the Internet
before you hit the dance floor. Many cafés
stay open late. The most popular and lively
cafés are in the splendid Trastevere district
in Via Veneto and Piazza Navona like the
classic Caffe della Pace. Wine bars tend
to be laid-back, informal and welcoming.
These are great places to have a snack
while sipping some excellent wine. Try the
Trimani Il Wine Bar and the Cul de Sac in
Piazza Navona. Pubs and beer gardens in
Rome tend to have a British theme, they
serve many different beers, and true to the
good old'Brit' style, you can enjoy a game
of darts with your pint! Places to be"seen" in
include the Fiddler's Elbow and the Victoria
House.
© NileGuide
Things to Do Insights
Colosseum
Heading the list of Rome's ancient
monuments is of course the Colosseum.
Inaugurated in 80 AD, it is the symbol of the
Imperial Capitol and draws visitors from all
over the world. Even if the lines are long, a
tour of this ancient arena is well worth it.
The Forum
The Palatine is the oldest part of the city
and home to the many of the ancient sites.
To the North of the Palatine hill are the vast
remains of the Roman Forum, once the
social, political, and economic center of the
city.
Pantheon, Trevi& Navona
The Pantheon, with its rotund interior and
open ceiling, was constructed circa 125
BC and is now used as a Christian Church.
One of Rome's famous landmarks is the
Trevi Fountain, immortalized in Fellini's
filmLa Dolce Vita. Although you are not
allowed to wade through the fountain as
Anita Ekberg famously did, legend has it
that throwing a coin in ensures a return trip
to Rome. On the other side of the Pantheon
is the oval0shaped Piazza Navona which
was once a Roman circus(hence its shape)
but designated as a square in the 15th
Century. Bernini's famous Fontana dei
Quattro Fiumi is located here, along with
Fontana del Nettuno. Piazza Campo de'
Fiori is also close by. By day the square
hosts one of the most famous street
markets in Italy, and is a popular meeting
place for tourists as well as local youth
during evening hours. The Spanish Steps
or Scalinata Trinità dei Monti, at Piazza di
Spagna, are another of Italy's most famous
meeting places.
Vatican
Many of the works that were uncovered
during the original excavation can now be
seen in the Vatican Museums. St. Peter's
Square is one of the most visited places on
Earth. People come from all over the world
to see Saint Peter's Basilica and receive
the Pope's blessing, traditionally given
Sundays at noon. Leave plenty of time to
tour the Musei Vaticani(Vatican Museums),
which house numerous masterpieces,
including Michaelangelo's Sistine Chapel
and Rapahel's School of Athens. Just
east of the Vatican on the Tiber is Castel
Sant'Angelo. Originally constructed as a
mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian in 139
CE, the fortress was used as a castle
during the 10th Century and eventually as
a papal residence. The last act of Puccini's
masterworkTosca took place here, and
today the building has been turned into a
museum. The Ponte Sant'Angelo stretches
over the Tiber and was also constructed by
Hadrian, intended to link the tomb with the
center of Rome.
©
Travel Tips
Airports
Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci(FCO)
International airport and Ciampino(CIA)
airport(www.adr.it) are Rome's two hubs
for air travel. Fiumicino is the transatlantic
traveler's delight with its numerous shops
and restaurants. Fiumicino has long and
short term parking, and easily connected to
Rome by a thirty minute train ride, bus or
taxi. Ciampino is hub for European travel,
especially for budget airlines like Ryan Air
and Easy Jet. Ciampino is connected to
Rome by bus, shuttle and taxi.
From the Airport
Fiumicino-Leonardo Da Vinci International
Airport (FCO)
Train: The Leonardo Express runs
directly from the airport to the main rail
terminal,Termini, as well as Tiburtina and
Trastevere stations, with trains every 30
minutes from 6:35a-11:35p. Tickets are
purchased either from teller or automated
machines, and must be validated prior to
boarding. Children under 12 accompanied
by an adult ride free. Follow signs
for"Stazione FS/Railway Station," located
on the second floor.
Bus:"Sit Bus Shuttle" to and from airport
to city center(Piazza Cavour e Stazione
Termini, in Via Marsala). Bus stop is found
in front of Arrivals at Terminal 3. Tickets
are purchased on bus.http://sitbusshuttle.it
Taxi: Rome's official taxis are white with
black identity codes on the door. A ride from
the airport the city center is EUR40, with
supplemental baggage fees. Wait in the
official-regulated taxi lines rather than falling
prey to non-licensed drivers.
Ciampino Airport(CIA)
Bus: to and from Ciampino to Termini
Station by busesATRAL, COTRAL, SIT and
TERRAVISION. The buses are parked in
dedicated bus bays opposite International
Departures.
Train
Rome is a major hub for Italian rail,
at Termini Station. It is managed
and maintained by the Italian State
Railway(http://www.trenitalia.com/) and
offers a variety of options for continental
as well as local travel. The EuroStar and
Freccia Rossa are the high speed lines
traveling up and down the peninsula. Most
of the trains arrive and depart at Rome's
Termini station, including all InterCity,
regional and national trains, with a few
international trains stopping at Ostiense
and Tiburtina stations.
Bus
Tiburtina Station(http://
www.romatiburtina.it/), north eastern part of
Rome, is the base for most intercity buses.
The bus terminal is located adjacent to the
rail station. Euroline(http://www.eurolines.it/)
and Cotral services bus lines that run
internationally.
Car
All roads lead to Rome. The A1, Italy's
famed superhighway running from Milan to
Naples, makes sure to pass through Rome.
The A24 spans east and the SS1 Aurelia
coastal route splits the A12/E80 between
Genoa and Rome. All converge with
29
Rome's ring road, the Grande Raccordo
Anulare(GRA). With gas prices paid
by the liter and toll roads littering the
motorways, driving can be quite expensive.
Check out the Autostrada website(http://
www.autostrade.it/) for toll info throughout
the country.
Driving in Rome can be a harrowing
experience. The historical center is
a restricted driving zone(Zona Trafica
Limitata- abbreviated ZTL), and nonresident vehicles are prohibited M-F 8a-6p
and Sa 8a-1p, enforced by major fines.
Paid parking spaces are marked by blue
lines and are all over the city. Parking
Termini is located in front of the main train
station and is open from 6a-1a. ParkSi
and Parking Ludovisi are located near
the Villa Borghese. Another option are
theparcheggi di scampio lots, located
farther outside the city center usually near
metro stops. Around EUR2 a day, this is a
very economical but riskier option as lots
are unattended.
Public Transport
ATAC is Rome's public transportation
provider for buses, trams and metro line.
Tickets are 1 euro, and require validation
before travel. Duration is 75 minutes.
Buses run 24 hours a day throughout the
entire city. TheMetropolitana or metro
has two lines(A and B) recognizable by
large red signs marked"M". The lines crisscross through the city, intersecting only at
Stazione Termini and run from 5:30a-11:30
everyday, and until 12:30a on Saturdays.
Children under ten years ride free. For
information about special tickets like the allday pass and to plan your route, visithttp://
www.atac.roma.it/(Italian only site).
Taxi
Rome's official taxis are white and have
a black identification number on the door
reading Comune di Roma. Use only these
authorized taxis, as they are metered
and regulated-- and make sure to keep a
close eye on the meter. Normal starting
fare(between 7a-10p) is EUR2.80; night
fares are higher(10p-7a) EUR5. Remember
that Sunday and holiday fares also apply
between 7a-10p, and rate per mile
increases if you travel outside the city limits.
Bring plenty of small bills as Roman taxi
drivers are notorious for not having change!
Taxi Companies include:
Cooperativa Radiotaxi Samarcanda
Radiotaxi 3570
© NileGuide
Fun Facts
Interesting Fact: SPQR, Rome's nearly
2500 year-old mottoSenatus Populus
Romanus(aka the Senate and the People
of Rome) is also the motto of Rome's waste
removal organization.Fun Fact: Rome is
a capital city which contains the world's
smallest country, Vatican City, of 108 acres,
within the boundaries of the Eternal City's
original urban sprawl.Weird Fact: Visitors
have the opportunity for a sneak peak at
purgatory. The Museum of the Souls in
Purgatory sits in side room of the Church of
Sacred Heart of Suffering, just across the
river from Piazza Navona. The museum
showcases artefacts that have traces from
souls suffering in purgatory. Not limbo,
but purgatory, the 8000 year waiting room
between heaven and hell.
Random Fact: the majority of all souvenir
sellers are named either Marco or
Massimo/Massimiliano.University Fact:
Rome's first university, La Sapienza(est.
A.D. 1303), is the largest in Europe with
over 100,000 enrolled students and
the second largest in the world.Soccer
Fact: Most Romans lovecalcio(soccer),
and Rome sports two teams: Roma, the
traditional anti-establishment, working
class team and Lazio, the slightly more
staid club. Make sure you know which
colors to wear(red/yellow or blue/white) and
how to identify team symbols– very useful
when arguing with a taxi driver.Museum
Fact: Rome's museum traverse ancient
to contemporary art, but there are several
offbeat culture caches as well including:
a Pasta museum, Horror museum(by
director Dario Argento), a Purgatory
museum, Carabinieri museum(military
police), and the museum of police cars
and uniforms.Ancient History Fact: Rome
celebrates its 753 BC foundation every April
21st. All shops, businesses and schools
are closed in celebration of Romulus'
foundation of the city.Fake Fact: Most
Romans can trace their lineage back to
Julius Caesar and his merry men. More
likely, the true Roman is someone who
can trace his family heritage in Rome
only back seven generations.Bridge Fact:
The Ponte Rosso is Rome's oldest bridge
from the first century BC. It has been
damaged and repaired several times,
but to no success. Even Michelangelo
Buonarotti could not keep that bridge from
falling down.Food Fact: Rome has an ice
cream shop,gelateria, on ever corner which
feature flavors from traditionalcioccolato to
more fanciful tomato and basil. Everyone
has a favorite gelateria and everyone
has an opinion. Tanning Fact: Rome is
approximately 13 miles from the beachOstia- an easy and inexpensive train trip
for a quick tan- 20-minute and 1 euro via
ATAC, Rome's public transport
©
30

Romantic Rome

Transcription

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