Roma Caput Mundi or the Eternal City. Both names apply to this enchanting city. And with good reason. According to tradition it was founded in 753 BC and over time it became the capital of what was to grow into the most powerful and civilized empire of antiquity, stretching from Britain to the Caspian Sea, from North Africa to Asia Minor. Obviously, then, a tour of Rome can only start from the Colosseum, which, appropriately enough, is the best known symbol of Rome throughout the world.
The many fierce gladiatorial fights, the thousands of wild beasts slain, the mock sea battles re-enacted there all contributed to make this structure the most famous of its kind in antiquity. The crosses standing in various parts of the arena also remind us of the significance this awesome structure has acquired over time for Christianity because of the Christian martyrs who are said to have been killed there during the persecutions by the Roman emperors. Close to the Colosseum, the glorious remains of the Forum tell the story of a market place that was in fact the hub of Roman public activity, with people meeting there to discuss business and daily events.
The Pantheon, nearby, is one of the best preserved ancient Roman buildings and has a very particular history: from its original destination as a temple to the gods it was subsequently turned into a Christian church. During the Renaissance some outstanding artists, such as Raphael and Carracci, were buried there and in the 19th century it became the burial place of Italian kings. Only a short distance away lies Piazza Navona, perhaps Rome's most famous square. There is no doubt that its elegant design, the artistically intriguing fountains decorating it and the Baroque majesty of the Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone, which overlooks Piazza Navona, make the square so beautiful. Its history is equally fascinating.
The stadium built by Emperor Domitian in the fist century AD was used for sporting events. Later it became a market square where processions or festivals were also held. In the 17th century it was rebuilt and embellished by Pope Innocent X. Contrary to popular belief, no mock sea battles ever took place in this square, but in antiquity the square was actually flooded in summertime to refresh the area. And, speaking of water, the most famous fountain in Rome is no doubt Trevi Fountain. You simply cannot afford to miss it: how else could you throw your coin in there? As for Roman squares, everybody's mind immediately runs to Piazza di Spagna, which is better known as the Spanish Steps, from the stairs leading down to it from the Church of Trinita' dei Monti.
This lovely square has been the subject of so many films and paintings that it has long been an all-time favourite of tourists from all over the world. Its charming Baroque style is hard to describe, but certainly holds all visitors spellbound. Bocca della Verita' is another little jewel in Rome's crown and is so dear to the hearts of all visitors that it has become an icon of the Eternal City. But there is another aspect of Rome that makes this city truly unique. While Christianity was born on the eastern shores of the Mediterranean, it found its natural seat in Rome. Thus, this tour must necessarily include a trip to the Vatican to admire, at least from the outside, St. Peter's Basilica and to visit the Vatican Museums where you will find one of the best collections of antiquities from Egyptian times to the Renaissance.
Located at the far end of the Museums, the Sistine Chapel requires no introduction:
Roadbook for shore excursion: http://www.niceandneasytravel.it
You will be picked up at your ship's gangway by an English-speaking driver who will take you for a tour of the city which will comprise two different parts, reflecting the history of the Eternal City. It will begin from the very heart of Ancient Rome. A guide will naturally be available here, upon request. The visit will include all the celebrated buildings and monuments of the Ancient City and the most famous sights of Rome. The tour will then move on to the Vatican, where you will see St. Peter's Basilica and visit the Vatican Museums. We would recommend that, in order to fully appreciate the visit, you secure the services of a qualified English-speaking guide that, on request, we shall gladly provide for you. At your request we shall make arrangements for your lunch at some time during your tour, but this would necessarily shorten your sightseeing time.
Note: full-day shore excursion (FDSE) will normally last 9 hours, inclusive of travelling time to and from your ship.
Kindly note also that, in order to ensure that you bypass tiring and time-consuming lines and the tour takes place as described above and within the ordinary time limits, it would be essential for you to obtain admission tickets to the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums in advance. We shall of course gladly make arrangements on your behalf to this effect.
More Info: http://www.niceandeasytravel.it
