Think of Rome, and the Trevi Fountain comes to mind. Almost 50 metres wide and situated at the intersection of three roads, this grandiose landmark is an icon of Italy’s capital. Yet it’s just one of over 2 000 fountains built in the past two millennia to provide drinking water to residents. Not all are as elaborate as the Trevi. Some, such as the Fontana delle Api with its intricate marble bees sculpted by renowned artist Bernini, are much smaller and understated. Set off in search of these hidden gems sprinkled throughout the city, and along the way discover piazzas overflowing with historical, religious, and artistic masterpieces.
From the Trevi Fountain, head towards Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi which features four sculpted river gods. En route, stop by the Pantheon – the temple in which the painter Raphael is buried. From there, marvel at the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum, a collection of buildings that served as a space for markets, banquets, military processions, public speeches, trials, and even assassinations. For centuries, locals gathered here to shape public affairs and forge empires. Battles for power continued at the Colosseum, the largest amphitheatre ever built. This monument of Roman history is where gladiators engaged in combat to claim victory and honour.
Despite their wars and bloody clashes, Romans offset a brutish past with some of the most delicate art and sanctified architectural designs. Defining the city’s skyline is the dome of St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world. Thousands of pilgrims travel from across the globe to visit this Renaissance building designed by Michelangelo. The talents of the artist, who was equally skilled as a painter as he was an architect and sculptor, can also be viewed at the Sistine Chapel. The Last Judgement scene on the ceiling is considered one of the greatest works of art, and is accompanied by frescoes by Boticelli and Raphael among others.
Both chapels are situated within the Vatican City, an independent state and home of the Roman Catholic church. Its geographical position makes Rome the only city in the world to contain an entire country within it. For visitors, this is an unmissable stop shrouded in myth and intrigue. Explore its museums and discover the Vatican’s legendary Secret Archives that were only recently opened to the public, or the Bramante staircase in the Pio Clementino Museum – a double helix spiral of stairs mimicking a strand of DNA that was designed before DNA was discovered.
Rome is a city bursting with extremes – the largest amphitheatre, the biggest church in the smallest country, the greatest works of art, and of course, the most fountains. With so many must-see sites, it’s easy to go through the main attractions in a day. But don’t forget to slow down and explore the city’s eccentricities. From the Pyramid of Cestius, an ancient tomb that’s now the grounds of a cat sanctuary, to a museum dedicated to pasta, Rome is filled to the brim with unexpected marvels.
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