Rome Travel Guide

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Arrival

Special Features

Squares

Buildings

Shopping & Dining

Street of the Imperial Forums

Vatican

Tevere (Tiber)

Churches

Public Transport

Imprint

Arrival

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Special Features

Bank Birds

This is the building of the “Banca D’Italia” at Via Nazionale 91. “Bank Birds” does not refer to the employees of the venerable institution but to the subtenants in the huge

palm trees in front of the building. On the next page, we reveal the secret of the “green bank birds of Rome.”

“Torre Argentina” - The Cats of Rome

2013, founded the cat sanctuary. Here, the cats living in the archaeological sites are provided with food and

TRAMJAZZ

Tramjazz is something very special: trams specially converted for this purpose, where an excellent menu is served accompanied by live music. The journey starts at

21:00 at Piazza di Porta Maggiore and ends at midnight at the same station.

Located not far from “Roma Termini” station, you’ll find this small park. It was named after an employee of the

Italian foreign intelligence service (SISMI) who died in Baghdad in 2005.

Squares

“Piazza di Spagna” - The Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps, leading up to the church “Santissima Trinità dei Monti,” are a meeting point in Rome. At any time of day, hundreds of people sit on them and enjoy the

moment. The Spanish Square was owned by Spain for centuries, and its embassy is still located here.

Piazza Navona

Where “Piazza Navona” stands today, in Caesar’s time, was the “Campus Martius,” an area dedicated to the war god Mars. The first athletic competitions were held here. Emperor Domitian expanded Caesar’s construction and created a stadium for over 30,000 visitors. The square’s current Baroque appearance was established by the end of the 15th century.

In front of the church “Sant’Agnese in Agone” stands the “Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi” - the Fountain of the Four Rivers (in the left image). Gian Lorenzo Bernini created this

masterpiece. It represents the greatest rivers known at the time: Danube, Nile, Ganges, and Rio de la Plata.

Piazza Navona is home to three fountains: in the north, the “Fontana del Nettuno” - the Neptune Fountain; in the center, the “Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi” - the Fountain of the Four Rivers; and in the south, the “Fontana del Moro”the Moor Fountain, pictured above.

Republic Square

At “Piazza della Repubblica,” just a stone’s throw from “Roma Termini,” stands the “Basilica Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri,” built by Michelangelo on the ruins of the Diocletian Baths. Upon entering the church, the approximately 45-meter-long meridian line, used as the basis for astronomical calculations, is particularly striking.

The square is a busy traffic circle that flows into Via Nazionale. Piazza della Repubblica is accessible by metro.

In the center of the square stands the “Fontana delle Naiadi,” the Naiad Fountain. Near the metro entrance, art markets and events are often held.

Buildings

Today, trams circle in front of “Porta Maggiore,” as it is an important hub in Rome’s transport network. This is also where TramJazz departs. The gate was built in 52 AD. The

name, used since the Middle Ages, refers to its proximity to the “Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore.”

When walking from the Trevi Fountain to the Pantheon, about halfway, you’ll encounter the remains of the Temple of Emperor Hadrian. All that remains of this magnificent structure are the 11 Corinthian columns. Behind the walls,

since 1878, are the Roman Stock Exchange and the Chamber of Commerce.

Near the “Quattro Fontane” - the Four Fountains, is the Baroque palace completed in 1638. Here, you can admire part of the collection of the National Gallery of Ancient

Art. Accessible via the Barberini metro station, this magnificent building and its treasures are a must-see.

Palace of Exhibitions

The “Palazzo delle Esposizioni” - Palace of Exhibitions is located on Via Nazionale. Completed in 1883, this art palace also houses a cinema, an auditorium, a café, and a

restaurant. The exhibition program changes regularly, offering new artistic highlights.

Palace of Justice

Coming from the Castel Sant’Angelo, you’ll reach a very impressive building in just a few minutes. It is the “Palazzo di Giustizia” - the Palace of Justice. Completed in 1910, the palace is located right on the Tiber. Behind the building, a

park named after Italy’s first Prime Minister, Camillo Benso di Cavour, was established.

Pantheon

The Pantheon is considered one of the best-preserved historical buildings in Rome. Emperor Trajan began its construction, and Emperor Hadrian completed it. The enormous dome, still one of the largest in the world, is particularly impressive. The building was dedicated to all the gods worshipped by the Romans. In 609, it was consecrated to Saint Mary and has since been a Catholic church.

Around 1870, the Pantheon also became a shrine for Italian kings. Vittorio Emanuele II, Umberto I, and

Margherita di Savoia were buried here. The Pantheon is also the final resting place of Raphael.

The Pantheon is accessed via the “Piazza della Rotonda.” In the center of the square stands the “Fontana del Pantheon.”

The Pantheon is open to visitors daily.

Quirinale

The official residence of the President of the Italian Republic is here in the “Palazzo del Quirinale” - the Quirinal Palace. Originally, the palace was the summer residence of the Pope. When Rome was declared the capital of Italy in 1871, the building was confiscated. It served as the residence of the kings until the end of the monarchy and then became the seat of the president.

Two tours are offered to explore the Quirinale. The tours take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Registration is required at least five days in advance. Info: www.quirinale.it

On Piazza del Quirinale stands a colossal monument. The obelisk, originally from the Mausoleum of Augustus, is flanked by two huge statues of Castor and Pollux. Every Sunday, a ceremonial changing of the guard takes place in front of the palace, from June to September at 18:00 and from October to June at 16:00. On weekdays, the ceremony is held in the courtyard and is not visible from the square.

The “Fontana di Trevi” has often been featured in films. The 1954 American film “Three Coins in the Fountain” led to the tradition of throwing coins into the fountain.

Recently renovated, the fountain now shines in full splendor.

Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II

The Roman national monument is the “Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II.” It stands on Piazza Venezia. Locals also call it “Il Vittoriano” or the Typewriter. It houses the

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the “Altare della Patria” - the Altar of the Fatherland.

Shopping & Dining

Markets

Rome has countless markets where you can buy virtually anything at these “open-air events.” The markets are very

popular with both locals and countless tourists.

Shopping Palaces

The “Galleria Alberto Sordi” is just one example of the splendor used to attract consumers. Other opportunities to spend a lot of money are offered by the shops on Via Condotti and Via Borgognona, where all the famous

designers are found. More affordable fashion is available on Via del Corso.

Wine & Dine

The selection of cafes for a quick coffee is sensational.

Street of the Imperial Forums

Via dei Fori Imperiali

During the time of the Roman emperors, there was no comparable street here. However, Benito Mussolini decided to build a parade street from Piazza Venezia to the Colosseum. The street opened in 1932. Since 2013, “Via dei Fori Imperiali” has been completely closed to private traffic and is only accessible to public transport and taxis on weekdays. The city administration aims to create a pedestrian zone here.

About halfway from Trajan’s Column to the Colosseum, there is a tourist information office. There is also a small café and plenty of shaded benches for resting. The information point is open daily from 09:30 to 19:00.

BASILICA OF SAINTS COSMAS AND DAMIAN

Trajan’s Forum

One of the most significant architects of the Roman imperial era was Apollodorus of Damascus. He accompanied Emperor Trajan on his campaigns in Dacia, where he also built Trajan’s Bridge over the Danube.

Apollodorus was the architect of this massive complex. Parts of his life story are depicted on Trajan’s Column.

Trajan’s Markets

Trajan’s Market was completed in 110 AD. Since 2007, it open daily from 09:30 to 19:30.

Forum of Augustus

The two columns on the right side of the image are the remains of the Temple of Mars Ultor. The temple was built to commemorate the Battle of Philippi, where the assassination of Julius Caesar was avenged. The front part

of the forum was built over due to the construction of Via dei Fori Imperiali.

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the center of the known world at the time. For centuries, decisions affecting the vast empire were made here. Exploring the Roman Forum requires

plenty of time. It is open daily from 09:00 until one hour before sunset.

Circus

After the great fire during Nero’s reign, the Circus Maximus was rebuilt and enlarged. The structure was eventually 600 meters long and 200 meters wide, accommodating

250,000 people. Chariot races, with teams of four to seven horses, were primarily held here.

The Colosseum could hold 50,000 spectators. It was a logistical masterpiece that, with the help of 80 entrances, spectators could be seated within 15 minutes. The name comes from the colossal statue of Emperor Nero, which,

after many visual alterations, was placed in front of the amphitheater.

Vatican

Swiss Guard

The Papal Swiss Guard dates back to a time when Switzerland’s main export was mercenaries. With brief interruptions, the Swiss Guard, in traditional uniforms, ensures the safety of the Holy Father. The swearing-in of

new recruits takes place annually on the anniversary of the Sack of Rome, May 6.

St. Peter’s Basilica

The “Basilica di San Pietro” - St. Peter’s Basilica, is located in the heart of the Vatican. This impressive structure is the largest Christian cathedral in the world. St. Peter’s was built around 320 under Emperor Constantine over the tomb of the Apostle Peter.

Admission to the basilica is free, but due to strict security checks, visitors must queue.

We visited the basilica, which is open from 07:00 to 18:00, early in the morning. At this time, the wait to enter is not very long.

A visit to the Vatican should be well planned. To climb the dome, you can take the elevator, reducing the 551 steps to just 320.

Audience

Combining a Rome visit with a papal audience is a great idea. However, everything must be carefully planned to

avoid getting lost in the crowd of visitors.

The building was originally intended as a mausoleum for Roman emperors. Starting around the year 1000, popes began using Castel Sant’Angelo as a fortress.

Castel Sant’Angelo is connected to the Apostolic Palace by an approximately 800-meter-long passageway.

Tevere (Tiber)

The bridge was designed by architect Angelo Vescovali and completed in 1895.

The 105-meter-long structure was inaugurated by Italian King Umberto I and his wife Margherita di Savoia.

The Ponte Sant’Angelo was completed in 134. As a central bridge over the Tiber, it was also used as an execution site.

The limbs and heads of the executed were displayed on the bridge as a deterrent.

Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II

Although construction of the bridge began in 1886, it was not inaugurated until 1911. The Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II is 108 meters long. On both sides of the bridge stand

massive marble pedestals topped with bronze figures. The bridge piers are adorned with marble statues.

Ponto Principe

The “Ponte Principe Amedeo Savoia Aosta,” also called “Ponte Principe,” is a simple bridge clad in white marble.

The structure was named after Prince Amedeo, Duke of Aosta, Viceroy of Ethiopia.

The “Ponte Giuseppe Mazzini,” also known as “Ponte Mazzini,” was built between 1904 and 1908. It is named

after Giuseppe Mazzini, an Italian politician who greatly contributed to the unification of Italy.

Ponto Sisto

Ponte Sisto dates back to 1479. It was built to accommodate the influx of pilgrims expected during the Holy Year of 1475. The circular opening in the center of the structure is designed to reduce pressure on the bridge

during floods. Today, the bridge is open only to pedestrian traffic.

The bridge was built between 1884 and 1888 and widened in 1959. It is named after General Giuseppe Garibaldi, nicknamed the “Hero of Two Worlds,” who was

active in both South America and Europe. He was also a 33rd-degree Freemason.

Tiber Island

The only island in the Tiber is the “Isola Tiberina.” It is boat-shaped, about 270 meters long and nearly 70 meters wide. The “Ospedale Fatebenefratelli” hospital, operating since 1583, is still in use today. The “L’Isola del Cinema”

festival has been held on the island from mid-June to September since 1955.

Ponte Palatino

“Ponte Palatino,” also known as “Ponte Inglese,” is the bridge immediately following Isola Tiberina. Built in 1890, it replaced the severely flood-damaged “Pons Aemilius,”

which is over 2,200 years old. Only a portion of the old island remains as evidence of the ancient stone bridge.

Churches

Churches in Rome

The density of places of worship in Rome is overwhelming. Many tourists flock to the Vatican to see the largest Catholic church in the world. Since every visitor must pass through a security corridor (like at an airport), long queues can form.

Of course, St. Peter’s Basilica is very beautiful, but it is primarily for viewing, not lingering. In contrast, many other churches, which are also splendid, offer the opportunity to spend a few minutes escaping everyday stress.

To showcase the variety of churches in Rome, here is a small selection.

San Giovanni in Laterno

“San Giovanni in Laterano” bears a proud title: “Caput et mater ecclesiarum urbis et orbis” - Head and Mother of the Churches of the City and the World. The church’s name comes from the Laterani family, who owned the land until it was confiscated by Nero. “San Giovanni in Laterano” is the church of the Bishop of Rome and thus the Pope’s church. It is one of the oldest and most splendid churches in the city. Upon entering the “Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano,” you face a closed place of worship.

Although the facade is very impressive, to enter the church, you must walk around the “Palazzo Laterano.”

From the huge “Piazza di Porta San Giovanni,” you get an impression of the splendor of this massive structure. The first church at this site dates back to Pope Sylvester I. Until 1309, when the papal seat was moved to Avignon, the popes resided here.

When the papal seat was moved back, the former residence had been severely damaged and largely destroyed. This was also the reason why, in 1377, the decision was made to move to the Vatican.

The current appearance dates back to Pope Innocent X, who commissioned the renovation in 1650. In 1735, Pope Clement XII ordered the new facade.

Oratory of the Guardian Angel

The “Oratorio dell’ Angelo Custode” is a prayer house in memory of the “Chiesa dell’ Angelo Custode,” which was demolished in 1929 due to the widening of Via del Tritone and the Quirinal tunnel.

The building is located at Piazza Poli 11, at the corner of Via del Tritone and Via Poli.

Santa Maria Maggiore

Rome is home to about eighty Marian churches. “Santa Maria Maggiore” is the largest of these places of worship and is one of the four patriarchal basilicas. The bell tower dates from 1377, and the facade was created in 1743.

The gold used to decorate the ceiling inside is said to be the first gold brought by Columbus from America. It was a gift from the Spanish king to Pope Alexander VI.

St. Paul’s Within the Walls

The striking church with its “striped” facade is located on Via Nazionale. It is an Anglican church and serves as the church of the Bishop of America. The “St. Paul’s Within the Walls Episcopal Church” hosts not only religious events but

also opera evenings three times a week. The church also rents out small apartments.

Saints

The first church at this site dates back to 412. Pope Innocent I had a place of worship built here. The Basilica Minor is located on Via Nazionale. A wide staircase leads to the church, which lies about six to eight meters below

street level. The four columns of the portico date from the 5th century.

Public Transport

Metro - Subway

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City Bus

Several small city buses operate in the city center. Lines 116, 116T, 117, and 119 transport passengers to their destinations in a highly environmentally friendly way.

info.rome-roma.net/karte-der-buslinien-von-rom/?lang=de

To be on the safe side, you should download the latest map from www.atac.roma.it.

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The team

This e-book was made possible through the kind support of the regional tourist offices and the OBB. German proofreading and editorial: Martin Andergassen.

References

Text, videos and photos by Rudolf J. Strutz unless otherwise stated. Timetables and travel information: OBB

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