Originally published on February 29, 2024 | Last updated on June 2, 2024
I’ve recently returned from a trip to Rome, Italy. I had an amazing time in the historic and cultural city. From exploring the Vatican’s treasures to standing in awe at the famous Colosseum, read on to find out my thoughts on some of the must-see sights:
The Vatican, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica
Our first stop was Vatican City, where we had a tour of the Vatican museums and Sistine Chapel. We also visited the beautiful St Peter’s Basilica. You may already know that Vatican City was established as an independent state in 1929, so when you visit the Vatican you’re technically in another independent country!
Vatican city is the spiritual centre of Catholicism, but also a trove for art and culture. We had a very thorough tour as our tour guide shared lots of detailed information on the Vatican and Sistine Chapel, its history, paintings, statues, and other artefacts. It was amazing to see works by renowned artists such as Michelangelo in person. St. Peter’s Basilica serves as a centre of worship for Catholics worldwide and is visited by millions of pilgrims and tourists each year. It is stunning and decorated with marble, sculptures, and mosaics. As you can see from the pictures, Vatican city is breathtakingly beautiful. A truly unforgettable experience.
The Colosseum, The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
We also had a tour of the famous Colosseum during our visit to Rome. It was amazing to see the ancient amphitheatre in person, especially when you think of its history. The Colosseum was inaugurated in AD 80 with grandiose games that captivated the Roman people. For over 500 years, it served as a gladiatorial arena for spectators to watch gladiators fighting caged animals, and each other. The gladiators who fought within the Colosseum were often prisoners of war or condemned criminals, forced to battle for their lives for the entertainment of the spectators. The tour I went on also covered the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, two historically significant sites that played crucial roles in the development and history of ancient Rome.
The City of Rome
Rome is a very beautiful, picturesque city with so much to offer. Our hotel was close to The Vatican, but we visited Central Rome (Termini) a few times, which has a lot more things to do and see, and many restaurants for those wanting to sample the Italian cuisine.
I would recommend Rome and Vatican City to anyone interested in history, art and culture. I will have to go back at some point, as there is still so much more I need to do and see!
Have you visited Rome or Vatican City before? What did you think?
