The
Coliseum is one of the world’s most famous landmarks and
tourist attractions. Although it survives only as a ruin, it
still rates as one of the finest examples of Roman architecture
and engineering.
The Foro Romano, or Roman Forum, was the focal point of the
city for early Romans. It was the center for commercial,
political, and civil activities and contained markets, prisons,
statues, entertainment areas, temples and monuments built by
various emperors. Perhaps more than any other Roman ruin, the
Forum gives us a glimpse into both the architectural and
political power of Rome.
The Campidoglio is a remarkable square and an urban
masterpiece designed by Michelangelo. At the center of the
square stands the great bronze equestrian statue of Marcus
Aurelius.
Teatro Marcello was the largest
ever built in the Roman Empire. Caesar wanted to build a theater
to rival the one built by Pompey, whom he had just defeated and
killed in the struggle for the control of Rome. Part of the site
that he chose had been used at least since 179 BC for dramatic
productions in front of a temple of Apollo. It seated about
12,000 spectators (maybe 14,000 with standees) which was twenty
percent more than would fit into Pompey's theater.
Tortoise
Fountain (Fontana delle
Tartarughe) was built by Taddeo Landini and Giacomo della Porta,
and located in Piazza Mattei.
It is one of the most unique and less-known fountains in all of
Rome. Recently restored to its original state, this is one
of those "off the beaten path" places that make Rome so
interesting.
The Pantheon
was begun in 27 BC by the statesman Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa. It
was completely rebuilt by the emperor Hadrian sometime between
AD 118 and 128. It is remarkable for its size, its construction,
and its design. The dome was the largest built until modern
times, measuring about 142 feet (43 m) in diameter, and rising
to a height of 71 feet (22 m) above its base. It was dedicated
in AD 609 as the Church of the Santa Maria Rotonda, or ad
Martyrs, which it remains today. The tomb of Raphael is found
inside.
Don't forget to ask Tony to suggest where to have
lunch.
He knows many excellent places to dine or just have a glass of
wine. His favorite restaurant is Paolo’s Antica Taverna,
one of Rome’s best trattorias, located just 5 minutes walk from
the Pantheon. Paolo’s chefs are world-class and will serve you
authentic Italian dishes in a quaint and vibrant atmosphere.
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