For anyone who visits Rome, Italy, it becomes really easy to access the marvels of ancient Rome. Some sites are a part of Rome Cards and Passes while others can be visited for free. A majority of ancient sites is located in the historic center of Rome so quite a few places can be visited in one day. Even if there is no time to look at them thoroughly, it can still be a remarkable experience to just walk by some of them and gain an overview of the history of ancient Rome.
Baths of Diocletian
Back in ancient Rome, 32 acres of land was once covered by these public baths, and they were the largest of their kind back then. Despite the destruction of most of the original construction, the National Roman Museum is now home to the remains of the Baths of Diocletian. Quite a few tombs had been moved into the boats and were reconstructed in there. When visiting the baths, it is also possible to see them too.
The Capitoline Hill
The Capitoline Hill, which is located above the Roman Forum, was once the symbolic center of Rome and the Temple of Jupiter was held there. Now, there are two museums there, the world’s oldest public museums. They are the Palazzo Nuovo, with sculptures from ancient Greece and Rome, and the Palazzo dei Conservatori, with frescoes, galleries, and sculptures. Visitors can enter both of the museums with just one ticket. The best view of the center of Rome is also provided from the top of the hill.
The Colosseum
Up to 55,000 people can be accommodated by this huge amphitheater, which was built in AD 80 by Emperor Vespasian. Many brutal animals and gladiatorial fights had taken place there. Today, men dressed as gladiators are often seen there when walking between the Arch of Constantine and the Colosseum. On most days it is possible to drive up Via dei Fori to reach the Colosseum, but it is shut down to traffic on Sundays, which is an excellent time to stroll around there.
The Pantheon
The Pantheon in Rome was built by Emperor Hadrian between AD 118 and AD 125 as the temple of all gods. The early Christians transformed the Pantheon into a church in the 7th century and today, there are tombs that are lined along it. Considering that admission is free, visitors should definitely step inside and take a look at the interior of the spectacular dome. The Pantheon is ancient Rome’s best preserved building and today, there is a lively and pleasant piazza surrounding it.
Roman Forum
This huge complex consists of ruined arches, basilicas, and temples. It was Ancient Rome’s business, ceremonial, legal, and social center. In the second century BC, brothels and food stalls were removed. Behind the museum there is the Capitoline Hill and visitors can walk up to the top to get a good view of the Roman Forum. In fact, they should spend least 1 to 2 hours to just wander around, and then can proceed to the Palatine Hill, which is another worth visiting attraction.