Basilica of San Clemente – Located just a few blocks from the Coliseum, the 12th century Basilica of San Clemente is built on top of a 4th century Church and older Roman temple. The present church is noted for its fabulous frescoes and mosaics. For an admission fee, it is possible to explore the excavations of the lower two levels, which is a fascinating journey into the history of Rome.
As the Eiffel Tower is to Paris, the silhouette of the Flavian Amphitheatre is to Rome. The largest structure left to us by Roman antiquity, the Colosseum still provides the model for sports arenas – present day football stadium design is clearly based on this oval Roman plan. The building was begun by Vespasian in AD 72, and after his son Titus enlarged it by adding the fourth story, it was inaugurated in the year AD 80 with a series of splendid games. The Colosseum was large enough for theatrical performances, festivals, circuses, or games, which the Imperial Court and high officials watched from the lowest level, aristocratic Roman families on the second, the populace on the third and fourth.
San Giovanni in Laterano (St. John Lateran) is one of four major basilicas in Rome. Dedicated to John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, it is the home cathedral for both the archbishop of Rome and the pope. It is believed to be the first Catholic church built in Rome. Its exterior doesn’t seem as ornate as other churches, but inside it’s beautiful decorated, with wall ornaments, columns, mosaics and paintings. More details on Rome Tours…
Castel Sant’Angelo
Erected on the banks of the Tiber River, this cylindrical fortress was built by Roman emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family in the 2nd century AD. Due to its proximity to the Vatican, the tomb was subsequently used by the popes as a fortress and castle. It also includes a secret corridor that connects it to Vatican City and two popes used it as an escape route in the 15th and 16th centuries. Today the structure is a museum that offers a great view onto St. Peter’s Basilica in the distance.
Free things to do in Rome :
You can enjoy Rome on the cheap. Yes, walking the streets doesn’t cost a thing but there are things you can do beyond that. There are great attractions in Rome that won’t cost a thing. Some are iconic tourist stops, some are grand museums, and some are just for fun, but all are worth your while when visiting Rome.
Wander the Villa Borghese Gardens
Villa Borghese is the largest public park in Rome and access to gardens is free of charge.
There are several ways to access the gardens, but visitors particularly like the approach from the Spanish Steps. If you want to rent a bike to tour the grounds, they are available for a fee in several locations in the park. You’ll also find places to grab a bite, from restaurants to ice cream vendors. The gardens are open from dawn to dusk.
The Villa Borghese Gallery is worth a visit but there is a charge. Since they limit the number of people who visit the art gallery per hour, it is necessary to buy a ticket online. Stroll around the gardens either before or after your visit to the Villa Borghese Gallery.
Walk the Ancient Appian Way