Guide to Rome's Best Historic Locations
Known as the Eternal City, the rich and vibrant history of Rome makes it one of the most sought-after historical destinations in the world. Boasting internationally renowned sights, the Italian capital also hides a wealth of other fascinating destinations which are often ignored by the millions of tourists who visit the city every year.
Of course, there’s no doubt many of the most famous sights do live up to their reputations, yet a visitor prepared to wander slightly off the beaten track can discover so much more. In that spirit, Historvius has put together their top ten – mixing the famous with the oft-forgotten.
Ostia AnticaItalyAncient Ostia is one of Rome’s best kept secrets with some of the best Roman ruins in the world. A little out-the-way, but definitely worth it. |
ColosseumItaly / RomeAn awe-inspiring sight and one of the majestic buildings built by the Romans. A must-visit while you're in Rome. |
Roman ForumItaly / RomeFrom triumphal arches to the houses of Emperors, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill contain the remains of the heart of the Roman world. |
PantheonItaly / RomeThe Pantheon is one of the Rome’s most famous attractions as well as one of the best preserved Roman buildings in the world. |
St Peter’s BasilicaItaly / RomeOne of Rome's absolute gems and a masterpiece of the Renaissance. Regarded as one of the holiest Roman Catholic sites. |
Catacombs of St. CallixtusItaly / RomeRome has a number of fascinating catacombs and a visit to one or other of them is a must. Those at San Callisto rank among the best. |
Basilica of Saint ClementItaly / RomeAn overlooked site full of surprises, San Clemente is a beautiful 12th century church which also contains a Roman temple of Mithras. |
Capitoline MuseumsItaly / RomeWith a huge array of artefacts set out across three buildings, the Capitoline Museums in the centre of Rome are a fascinating place to go. |
Appian WayItaly / RomeAwash with a host of ancient monuments, the famous Appian Way is an intriguing route which is seldom explored by tourists. |
Villa of the QuintiliiItaly / RomeAn amazing place, once home to Emperor Commodus – he of Gladiator fame – this Roman villa makes for a great trip out of the busy centre of Rome. |

