Rome, the Eternal City, is not just famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine. The city itself is surrounded by a plethora of attractions that make it even more fascinating for tourists and locals alike.
Let’s explore what surrounds the city of Rome and discover the hidden gems that lie just beyond its borders.
The Seven Hills of Rome
One of the most iconic features surrounding Rome is its seven hills. These hills played a significant role in shaping the city’s history and are worth exploring for their historical significance and breathtaking views. Let’s take a closer look at each one:
1. Palatine Hill
The Palatine Hill is known as the birthplace of Rome and is steeped in mythology. According to legend, it was on this hill that Romulus founded the city in 753 BC.
Today, visitors can wander through ancient ruins, including the impressive Domus Augustana and enjoy panoramic views of the Roman Forum.
2. Aventine Hill
The Aventine Hill offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of central Rome. Stroll through its charming streets adorned with orange trees and discover hidden treasures like the beautiful Garden of Oranges (Giardino degli Aranci) or admire the stunning architecture of Santa Sabina Basilica.
3. Capitoline Hill
The Capitoline Hill is home to some of Rome’s most important museums, including the Capitoline Museums (Musei Capitolini). Climb up to Piazza del Campidoglio designed by Michelangelo to experience breathtaking views over ancient ruins and marvel at Marcus Aurelius’ equestrian statue.
4. Esquiline Hill
The Esquiline Hill is the largest of the seven hills and boasts several notable attractions. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s most beautiful churches, or explore the ruins of the Baths of Trajan (Terme di Traiano).
Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the stunning views from this hill.
5. Quirinal Hill
The Quirinal Hill is where you’ll find the official residence of the President of Italy, known as the Quirinal Palace (Palazzo del Quirinale). Take a leisurely stroll through the Piazza del Quirinale and admire its grandeur before exploring nearby attractions such as Fontana delle Api and Palazzo Barberini.
6. Viminal Hill
The Viminal Hill may be the smallest of Rome’s seven hills, but it offers unique attractions worth visiting. Explore the Baths of Diocletian (Terme di Diocleziano), which now houses part of the National Roman Museum (Museo Nazionale Romano), or take a pleasant walk through Piazza della Repubblica.
7. Caelian Hill
Last but not least, we have the Caelian Hill, known for its picturesque charm and historic sites. Visit the Basilica of San Clemente to delve into layers of history or enjoy a peaceful walk in Villa Celimontana, a beautiful park that hosts concerts during summer months.
The Roman Castles
Just a short distance from Rome lies an area known as “Castelli Romani” or Roman Castles. These charming towns offer a welcome respite from city life and are famous for their beautiful landscapes, rich history, and delicious local products. Some of the must-visit towns include:
- Frascati: Known for its wine production, Frascati is the perfect place to indulge in a glass of refreshing white wine while enjoying panoramic views over Rome from Villa Aldobrandini.
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Castel Gandolfo: This town is home to the Pope’s summer residence, the Apostolic Palace.
Take a stroll along Lake Albano or visit the Barberini Gardens for a tranquil experience.
- Ariccia: Famous for its “porchetta” (roast pork), Ariccia offers picturesque streets lined with traditional trattorias and stunning landmarks like Palazzo Chigi.
These are just a few examples of the many charming towns that make up the Roman Castles. Each town has its own unique character and attractions to explore.
The Appian Way
Another fascinating feature surrounding Rome is the Appian Way (Via Appia Antica). This ancient road was one of the most important in ancient Rome and played a crucial role in connecting Rome with other parts of Italy.
Today, visitors can walk or cycle along sections of this historic road, passing by ancient ruins, catacombs, and picturesque countryside scenery.
The Tiber River
The Tiber River runs through the heart of Rome and offers an opportunity to explore the city from a different perspective. Take a relaxing river cruise or enjoy a leisurely walk along its banks while admiring famous landmarks such as Castel Sant’Angelo and Ponte Sant’Angelo.
In conclusion, Rome is not just a city; it’s a world within itself, surrounded by hills, charming towns, ancient roads, and a mighty river. Exploring what surrounds the city of Rome allows you to uncover hidden treasures and experience the rich history and natural beauty that make this city truly extraordinary.