Rome City Breaks 2012

A city break in Rome is not complete without visits to ancient sites and famous churches. Visitors are treated with a multitude of art masterpieces and social meeting grounds. From The Colosseum and glorious piazzas to St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome is a truly stunning holiday destination.

Ancient Rome: The Forum and Colosseum

A trip to Rome is not complete without a visit to Rome's ancient historical centre. During the Roman Empire, the Forum was the area’s bustling centre of activity – complete with a huge marketplace, law courts, a business district, temples, etc. During the Middle Ages, after the fall of the Roman Empire, the Forum was soon forgotten, however, the relics of this once glorious past can still be viewed at first hand today.

As the buildings fell to ruins, the Roman Forum was used as a pasture for raising animals. The remains are visited by thousands of visitors each year. The Colosseum is another ancient marvel which dates back to 70 A..D. Corinthian, Ionic and Doric columns all adorn this historic venue.

Vatican City: The Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica

The walls and ceilings of this famous Chapel were painted by Renaissance masters. Art history lovers will not dare miss stopping here on their city break! The art was commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV in the late 1400’s.

The walls are covered in works by such artists as Botticelli, Ghirlandaio, Rosselli, and Perugnio. The ceiling, repainted in the early 1500’s, are the most famous works of Michaelangelo – the Creation of Adam, the Creation of Sun and Moon and the Last Judgment.

Like The Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica is also drenched in art. Michaelangelo sculpted the famous Pieta and designed the Basilica’s dome, while Bramante served as the first chief architect. The building is a monument to St. Peter, whose tomb rests beneath the building. They crypt underneath the church contains the tombs of many past popes as well as his authentic relics.

Piazzas

Rome is known for its many piazzas, or squares. Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Steps) and the Barcaccia Fountain were built in the 1500’s near the church Trinita dei Monti. In the 1700’s, the church and piazza were joined by the monumental Spanish Steps.

Prestigious shops such as Prada and Gucci and Valentino are all located on the square. Among several other piazzas, the Piazza Novana is also a must-see. It is home to three baroque fountains – the most famous being the Fountain of Four Rivers, designed by Bernini.

For a city break destination rich in ancient history, Rome is the ideal location. Not only are visitors pleasured with tons of fabulous Italian food, but they’re allowed to step back in time to experience what some of our ancestors accomplished.