Cultural Breaks In Europe: Rome
Europe is steeped in history and with a diverse range of countries and cultures, there is something for everyone. Here we look at Rome, which is arguably one of the not to be missed capitals of Europe.
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Rome
The Eternal City is near the top of every traveller’s list – a city with a cultural, architectural and historical legacy that is the envy of the world. There is so much to see and do in Rome, it’s a city that should be visited more than once – which is a good reason to start any tour with a trip to the Trevi Fountain. Tradition has it that anyone who throws a coin in this spectacular Baroque fountain – which depicts the Roman God Neptune driving a chariot led by seahorses – will one day return to Rome.
Roman History
Located in the centre of the city, the Roman Colosseum is a remarkable feat of architecture and engineering, and one of the iconic symbols of Rome’s ancient and imperial past. The very first gladiator fight took place in 82 AD, the beginning of a bloody tradition that pitted man against man – and beast – in a fight to the death, with crowds inside the forum reaching 50,000. Visit the Arch of Constantine, built in 315 to mark the famous battle victory of Constantine over Marcus Aurelius Valerius Maxentius.
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Architecture
The Pantheon was built to the orders of Marcus Agrippa in 27 BC and later rebuilt in the 2nd century by the emperor Hadrian. Originally designed as a temple to the gods, it was later converted for Christian worship and, after the Renaissance, became a burial site for the city’s elite and most famous sons, including the painter Raphael. The striking design, with its imperious columns, has inspired many imitators, but nothing compares to seeing the real thing.
The Vatican
The Vatican City is an independent state with its own currency, flag, stamps and militia, the Swiss Guard, which protects its 800 citizens, including the Pope. Out front is the magnificent St. Peter’s Square, while the Vatican Museums house a large collection of Italian masterpieces by artists including Raphael, Fra Angelico and Michelangelo.
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Art
Located in the sprawling gardens of the Villa Borghese, the Galleria Borghese is a must for fans of the Italian masters. Marvel at the Bernini sculpture of Apollo and Daphne, as well as works by Rubens, Correggio, Raphael and Caravaggio.
The Ultimate Travel Company have paired up with the Tate to offer Tate Travels. They have created a program of art and cultural tours across the world to visit some of the most exciting art destinations. To see a full list of the upcoming art and cultural breaks, visit The Ultimate Travel Company website.
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