Quick Facts
Top Sights
Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore
This basilica is one of the oldest and most important churches, famous for its stunning architecture and deep history. It’s a major spot for anyone interested in art, history, or religion. The church is especially known for its beautiful mosaics and impressive ceilings that date back centuries.
Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano
This cathedral is the oldest and one of the most important churches in the city. It’s actually the official seat of the Pope, not the more famous one you might be thinking of. The building has been around since the 4th century and has seen a ton of history, changes, and epic events. It’s a huge spot for religious ceremonies and is considered the “mother” of all churches.
More Sights
Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem
This church is one of the oldest and most important in the city. It was built in the 4th century and is famous for holding relics believed to be from the Passion of Jesus, including fragments of the True Cross. The building has a peaceful atmosphere and a rich history that goes back over 1,600 years.
Scala Santa
This site is a set of holy steps that are believed to have been brought from Jerusalem in the 4th century. According to tradition, these are the steps that Jesus climbed during his trial before Pontius Pilate. The staircase is a major pilgrimage spot and is considered one of the most sacred places for many visitors.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II
This large square is the biggest in the city and is surrounded by beautiful 19th-century buildings. At its center, there’s a public garden with palm trees, ancient ruins, and a mysterious ancient gate. The area is a mix of local life, history, and unique architecture.
Larger Gate
This ancient gate is one of the oldest and most impressive entrances to the city. Built during the Roman Empire, it has stood for centuries as a symbol of history and architecture. The structure is a mix of different building styles, showing how it was changed and reused over time.
Museo Storico della Liberazione di Roma
This museum is set in a former prison used by the German SS during World War II. It tells the story of the city’s resistance movement and the people who fought for freedom. The building itself is a piece of history, with original cells and graffiti left by prisoners.
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The traveller's pocket guide