Description
Your itinerary begins at Piazza Venezia from where you'll continue on foot to the Piazza del Campidoglio and the Roman Forum. You'll reach the Circus Maximus and the Aventine Hill by bus. Take a moment to admire the beautiful statue of Moses by Michelangelo located in the Church of Saint Peter’s in Chains (San Pietro in Vincoli) from where it will take five minutes to reach the symbol of the eternal city – the Colosseum, for a visit of the fascinating structure (entrance fee is included).
Legend has it that when Emperor Charles V visited Rome in 1536, Pope Paul III, a Farnese, was so embarrassed by the muddy state of the Capitol that he asked Michelangelo to draw up plans for repaving the piazza, and for renovating the façades of the Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Senatorio.
Michelangelo proposed plans for a piazza in the shape of a trapezium, embellishing it with classical sculptures chosen for their relevance to Rome. The Piazza del Campidoglio was completed in the 17th century, mostly following Michelangelo's original design.
The Forum was the name the Romans gave to the central square of the urban settlement. It was the center of political, commercial, and judicial life in ancient Rome. The largest buildings were the basilicas, where legal affairs were addressed. The busy, crowded place was in many ways similar to the pulsing center of a modern city. Here the masses would flock to see the meetings of the orators, attend criminal trials, and discuss internal politics or the latest military campaigns, or quite simply to comment on the games or run races (an activity the Romans particularly enjoyed).
After this exploration of Imperial Rome on foot, you'll reach your next sights by bus. The Circus Maximus was originally dedicated to horse and chariot races, and later also to religious festivities. The Aventine hill is the most southerly of Rome's seven hills.
The Colosseum is probably the most famous monument in the world. With its height of 48 meters (157 feet), the colossal elliptical structure has fascinated humans throughout history. Construction of the Colosseum was begun under Vespasian as a symbol of the grandeur of the Roman Empire. It was inaugurated by Emperor Titus in the year 80 AD. Your tour of Imperial Rome will end with a visit of this fascinating structure.
Additional information
No refund is possible for a cancellation less than 24 hours before the visit, and for no-shows.
