Top 5 landmarks in Rome

Rome is the cradle of Roman civilization and of the Roman Empire that stretched through most of Western Europe and the Mediterranean region. The Roman legacy features several of the most impressive buildings in the world.

1. Colloseum

This building is an elliptical amphitheatre, one of the greatest works of engineering and architecture of the Roman Empire. To visit the Colloseum, you will have to wait in a long queue (at least one hour in high season and about 30 minutes in a low season), but it is definitely worth the wait. Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, this iconic symbol built between 70-80 A.D. was designed for hosting 50,000 spectators and is 57 meters tall. The top level provides a stunning view and you can see the underground levels, which housed elevators and animal cages. At the mid level there is a covered passage which functions as an arcade, promenade and walkway.

2. The Papal Basilica of Saint Peter

Located in the central part of the Vatican State, this huge church is breath-taking. Make sure you climb up to the top to see the great view.  Many famous architects and artists have contributed to this construction, including Bramante, Raphael Sanzio, Michelangelo and Bernini. The baroque facade is dominated by statues of Christ, St. John the Baptist and 11 Apostles. Inside, you will find the famous Pieta sculpture, made by Michelangelo when he was only 25 years old.

3. The Pantheon

The Pantheon is the best preserved building from Roman Empire and oldest standing domed structure in Rome. The dome's diameter is 43 meters, equal to the building's height. The only source of light in the building is the hole shaped as a circle located at the top of the dome. The entry has 3 rows of 8 columns each.

4. Fontana di Trevi

Fontana di Trevi is probably the most famous fountain in the city. This artwork was build by Nicolo Salvi, based on a previous project by Bernini. It consists of a central statuary that is Neptune, located in a chariot pulled by two sea horses, one of them being restless and the other quiet and subdued.

5 Monument to Vittorio Emanule II

The monument is dedicated to memory of Vittorio Emanule II, the first king of unified Italy. The building is constructed entirely out of white marble, is 135 meters tall and features a huge Equestrian sculpture of Victor Emmanuel and two statues of goddesses riding on quadrigas Niki. Also, here it is located The Grave of the Unknown Warrior. The monument has a great location, from Venezia Piazza to Capitoline Hill, close by Trajan's Column.