Rome was, is, and probably always will be, one of the world’s most compelling cities with probably more to see here than in any other capital on earth. Boasting an uninterrupted recorded history for upwards of 2,500 years, nowhere else seems to have managed to combine, and with such finesse, a heritage of classical antiquities, and medieval buildings from Renaissance palaces to intricate Baroque piazzas. From the grandeur of the Colosseum, scene of some of the most cruel acts ever committed, the Appian Way where Spartacus was crucified, the magnificence of St. Peter’s, the grandeur of the Vatican, the sheer brilliance of the Sistine Chapel, to the Trevi Fountain and flamboyant Baroque buildings – the list is endless. But Rome is much more than monuments, incredible though they are! A city is nothing without people and Rome’s citizens have been amongst the most colourful in history with probably nowhere on earth having been visited by so many of the world’s most famous characters: Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, Nero, Attila the Hun, St Peter, the Medici, Michelangelo, Napoleon, Byron, Garibaldi, Mussolini and Pope Jean-Paul II - all captivated by its magnificence.
The vivacious, emotional and noisy Italians of today however, still add to this very unique atmosphere: the best-dressed and most stylish people on the planet, senior citizens immaculately turned out, the fashion-conscious young astride their vespas - sunglasses everywhere, a country where image is everything! The shopping is legendary too with no other country being home to so many famous ‘labels’: Gucci, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, plus many more, in fact another endless list! It costs nothing to look and not everything is of the designer variety. You will find some very good value items, particularly leather goods. Italy also boasts one of the world’s greatest cuisines.
Far from being pizza and pasta, one of the first things that really strikes you about visiting a restaurant here, is how deeply embedded in the culture food and drink really is. Fresh vegetables and salads abound, combined with succulent meats, seafood, a hint of garlic, the finest olive oil, combined with wonderful wines, creating simple, tasty, wholesome and healthy menus. Add all this together and you have a superb destination, simultaneously educating, entertaining and relaxing!
The best way to explore this wonderful city is to wander where your feet take you, through its beautiful piazzas lined with layers of history, where the smell of fresh coffee drifts from the numerous cafes. Admire its monuments, meet its people, sample its food and let your mind be carried away into the magnificent past of what has always been, and always will be, one of the world’s most truly beautiful and historic cities.
