The Best Ancient Sites to Visit When in Rome

Rome is a city that offers an experience unlike any other for those who want to truly appreciate ancient history. Once the centre of the known world, and today a thriving multicultural environment, it has an ability to captivate that cannot be overstated. You only have to look at the timeless nature of the Colosseum to get a sense of what ancient Rome was really like.  In this guide, we’re going to introduce you to the ancient wonders that come together to create Rome’s rich historical tapestry.

The Colosseum

With a capacity of up to 80,000, the Colosseum was a central part of Roman life from the moment it was completed by emperor Titus in 80 AD. This ancient amphitheatre hosted everything from large public meetings to gladiatorial battles and mock sea battles.  In times of political turmoil or unrest, it was common for emperors to showcase exotic animals from all corners of the empire in an attempt to distract the populace with new forms of entertainment. When Rome fell from prominence the Colosseum was repurposed many times, most notably as a place of worship and public housing. 

“As long as the Coliseum stands, Rome shall stand; when the Coliseum falls, Rome will fall; when Rome falls, the whole world will fall” – Saint Bede

Rome’s most renowned ancient site is known around the world for its architectural brilliance and iconic arches. It has inspired the spectator experience of modern stadiums and no guide covering the must-see places in Rome would be complete without tips on how to explore it. 

Exploring the Colosseum

Booking official Colosseum tours in Rome is a simple way to get a closer look at one of the true wonders of ancient history. Choosing a skip-the-line tour will allow for more time to walk the arena floor. Underground tours provide access to the hidden chambers formerly occupied by gladiators in the moments before battle. Although the Colosseum may be the highlight, it is also only the beginning when exploring Rome. 

The Roman Forum

The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are not to be missed by any student of ancient history. From its origins as a humble marketplace, the Forum evolved into the beating heart of the city, acting as a place where traders and politicians would work side by side with the public. Each emperor would make proposals and additions to the site, with many still visible to this day. 

The Temple of Saturn

The astrological and cultural links between Saturn and the agricultural industry were at the heart of Roman beliefs. Before the city conquered the known world, it amassed its fortune by farming the surrounding land. This is why the Temple of Saturn would later become the state treasury. 

The Arch of Septimius Severus

Roman emperors were astute politicians and always acutely aware of their grip on power. The Severan dynasty proclaimed its legitimacy with the creation of a sculpted arch designed to tell the story of crushing victories against Parthia’s forces. Historians cite the arch as one of the best-preserved examples of Roman propaganda. 

The House of the Vestal Virgins

Before Christianity came the cult of Vesta — the hearth goddess — and the tending of the eternal flame by the Vestal Virgins. It was thought that if the flame were to go out, Rome itself would fall overnight.

Viewing the Roman Forum 

Head to the Via dei Fori Imperiali as it approaches the Altar of the Fatherland for one of the most expansive views of the Forum. Alternatively, Capitoline Hill provides a prime viewing spot that tends to be a little less busy during peak afternoon visiting times. For those looking to combine a trip to the Forum with a Colosseum tour, you will be glad to know that the two sites are located in close proximity. 

Palatine Hill

No list of ancient Roman landmarks would be complete without mention of the birthplace of Rome itself. Historians have found evidence of human habitation dating back as far as 1000 BC, with Roman tradition citing Palatine as the hill on which Romulus founded the city.  Roman emperors were always aware of symbolism and chose Palatine Hill as their primary residency right the way up until Rome fell. Highlights that can be seen during a tour include: 

• The ruins of Domus Augustana — the main residence of Caesar Augustus
• Views looking out across the Forum that provide a sense of scale and perspective 
• Clear sight of the Circus Maximus — one of Rome’s key chariot racing circuits

How to Tour Palatine Hill

Making the most of your time in the heart of Rome is simple with a little bit of pre-planning: 

• Visit Palatine Hill when the temperature peaks so that you can make use of the shade cast by the trees 
• Save your exploration of the Roman Forum until after Palatine Hill so that you can enjoy much gentler terrain 
• Make sure to visit the Imperial Ramp — a secret passage used by Domitian to access the Forum 

There are also a variety of other key sites that no ancient history enthusiast will want to miss.

The Pantheon

Completed in 25 BC by Agrippa, the Pantheon is one of the best-preserved ancient sites in Rome. It has been used as a place of worship for centuries, first as a Roman temple and later as a Catholic church from 609 AD onwards. To this day it remains the largest unsupported concrete dome anywhere in the world. 

The Baths of Caracalla

These ancient bathing chambers offered members of the public a place to rest, relax, and meditate. It was also a place where business leaders and political figures would meet to discuss deals and hatch plots against one another. Elaborate mosaic flooring would have been on display throughout the baths during the height of Roman power. 

The Appian Way

An engineering masterpiece that connected Rome and Brindisi, the Appian Way was one of the key transport and trading routes into the city. A number of notable locations are visible to this day, including: 

• The Catacombs of San Callisto where slaves and citizens were buried before it later became a resting place for wealthy members of Christian Rome
• The Tomb of Cecilia Metella — the patron saint of music who was put to death after converting to Christianity 

“Like all Roman roads, the Appian Way was a marvel of both engineering and propaganda” – Prof. Philip Freeman

The Arch of Constantine

Situated between the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill, the Arch of Constantine occupies one of the most prominent positions of all historic Rome attractions. The arch is a celebration of Constantine’s victory against Maxentius and is strategically placed on the route that triumphant Roman legions would march along in celebration. 

Final thoughts 

A visit to Rome is a must for any ancient history enthusiast who wants to experience everything firsthand. Making time for a guided tour during your trip further enhances the rich historical tapestry and provides access to details and context that are not found elsewhere.