Jewels of Rome

And now for the next top 5 destinations that one must visit in Rome..

HOLD ON! Before I forget, many including me thought that Vatican City is part of Rome but Vatican is a state on its own not under the influence of Rome and Italy. Odd indeed since Vatican is just another city surrounded by Rome and you do not need a passport to cross the border between Rome and Vatican City. Anyway, I will just include Vatican City in this post as well..

Number 5

San Giovanni in Laterano
This church was dedicated to John the Baptist and John the Evangelist and is one of the four main basilicas in Rome. The most important part, it is the first church to be built in Rome! I would say that this cathedral is different from the other cathedrals that I have been to in UK and Ireland. The reason?? I dont know why but everything about this church from the huge statues of Christ and the 12 apostles to the marble paved ceiling and floor attracted me. =)

*Note the bronze plated ceiling*

Number 4

Palatine Hill & Circus Maximus
Located just next to each other, they are part of the Ancient Rome and according to Myth, there is a cave on Palatine Hill where Romulus and Remus (Rome's twin founders) were found by the she-wolf that saved them.

As for Circus Maximus, it was said to be the world's first entertainment venue where shows were held for the Romans.

Number 3

Forum Romanum
This is part of the Ancient Rome where all the old and important structures are located including Rome's oldest shrines and temples, the ancient Senate House where the High Court met, etc.. I would say those of you who enjoy history will love this place or else you will be suffering because Romans are so good at preserving the historical sites that the pathways are so rocky and as the wind blows, I felt like I was in Sahara Desert with all the dust around me..

*and here lies Julius Caesar*

Number 2

Vatican City
Headed by the Pope, Vatican it the world's smallest sovereign state but it manages to get into my list of one of my favourite holiday destinations. I would recommend one to stay full day in Vatican because every single corner and every street in Vatican is worth exploring besides the three main sites; St.Peter's Basilica, Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. I wouldnt elaborate too much on Vatican because I am sure most fo you would like to see the greatness of Vatican yourself. Note: I had my confession in St.Peter's Basilica. =)

*the beautified remains of one of the Popes*

*Michaelangelo's masterpiece in Sistine Chapel*

Number 1

Colosseum
Of course, synonym to the Rome, a visit to Rome is not complete without a visit to themagnificent Colossuem.. Considered as Rome's greatest architecture, it was once used for gladiatorial events and now, it has become a popular concert venue!!

For those who are planning a trip to Rome soon, dont be lazy but do read the history of Rorm ahead or else you wont appreciate all the dusty and ancient buildings. =)

Rome was not built in one day..

Indeed, Rome was not built in one day and I did not manage to finish visiting all the important historical sites in Rome despite walking non-stop for 3 days under the scorching hot sun and torturing my poor feet. There are just too many for one to see and venture in Rome but I would say if you really want to experience the mighty Rome, along the Caesar feel, there are 10 top places that one must visit in Rome.

Number 10

Pantheon
Pantheon means 'every God' in Greek and was built as a temple to all the god in Ancient Rome but after the French Revolution, it has been used until today as a Catholic Church and also a tourist attraction..

Number 9

Piazza Navona
One of the famous squares in the world, indeed it is! This is the place where all the artists sell their pieces and you get to see people pulling out different stunts to attract customers.

*Put a coin into the box on the ground and she will dance for you!*

Famous for its fountains as well, my favourite is the Neptune Fountain. =)

Number 8

Spanish Steps
Also known as Piazza di Spagna in Italian, it is the longest and widest staircase in Europe and was built between 1723-1725. The reason I like this staircase is because I got to sit and rest my poor feet for as long as I want to. =) And also, you get to see artists giving their paintings final touch and I even bumped into a music composer carrying his guitar and song book.

At the base of the steps is where the famous Barcaccia Fountain lies. Here, you can see lots of young couples taking pictures in front of the fountain and of course, some 'unwelcomed' people will take the opportunity to 'con' the men into buying roses for the ladies..

Number 7

Scala Santa
Also known as the Holy Stairs and according to historical records, it was the stairs that Jesus climbed during his passion to meet Pontius Pilate. It was brought from Jerusalem to Rome by Saint Helena and every year, many Christians will climb the stairs of 28 steps but I can tell you that its absolutely NOT an easy feat because I gave up after 5 steps.. *sad*

Number 6

Fontana di Trevi
I would say this is quite similar to the Eiffel Tower in Paris where love birds will definitely like having their pictures taken here. Why? I am sure the picture tells you everything. the architecture of the fountain itself is just O-U-T-S-T-A-N-D-I-N-G!

There is a myth that goes like this, throw a coin into the fountain and make a wish, a second coin you will come back to Rome again and of course, I would definitely want to come back to Rome again..

Note: I will continue on with the next 5 must visit places in the next post..