Rome has been a force the European history since the foundation about 2,700 years ago. First it was the center of the Roman Empire, and today is the heart of the Catholic Church. So on a vacation to Rome you will be able to see a lot of the remains of the ancient Rome.
Coliseum in Rome is probably the most impressive relic of the ancient Rome. Here the 55,000 spectators could watch gladiator fights and fights against exotic, wild animals.
Emperor Vespasian ordered the building of the Coliseum in 72 AD. Then there were a lot of other coliseums around the Roman Empire; from El Djem in North Africa to Arles and Nimes in France. Since there has been missing maintenance, destructions and even theft; but the Coliseum is still a must see sight.
Another must see sight in Rome is the St. Peter's Basilica; also named the St. Peter's Cathedral. This building is almost the definition of the Vatican State. Even though it just physical is the center of the smallest country in the world, it is the heart of the Catholic religious community.
The construction of the St. Peter's Basilica took more than hundred years, and many famous architects have been involved. Even though there are many interesting sights inside the cathedral, the most impressive of the all is the dome drawn by Michelangelo. From the top you have an amazing view of the Vatican State.
You also have to see the Sistine Chapel; the main chapel of the Vatican Palace. The ornamentation was finished by Michelangelo with his famous fresco named Judgment Day in 1541. Today it is seen as his masterpiece from his mature years. The work took seven years, and two windows and an altar have to be removed to make room for Michelangelos work.
Many years ago Rome was the center of international trade. The finest craftsmen moved to the city and started to processed material from all the exotic places of the Roman Empire.
Today you can still find fine handicraft in Rome. The best designs from the famous, Italian designers are found in Palazzo delle Esposizioni. And the large, Italian fashion houses like Gucci, Prada and Giorgio Armani are around the Spanish Steps.
Rome does also have several markets. The most famous of them all is Campo deFior, where you can buy everything in food. Old books can be found at Mercato delle Stampe, while Porta Portese is the place for everything else.
