Rome, the eternal city, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Europe and the world. There are many reasons – these are unique sights that are not found anywhere else, and the charm of people living in the city. Do not think that visiting Rome is expensive. There is something to see for both tourists with a fat wallet and travelers with a modest budget. We offer you a selection of cultural and historical monuments of the “cradle of civilization”, which you can get to for free.
1. St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican
Being the center of the Catholic world, the basilica is considered one of the largest Christian churches in the world. Everyone who finds himself within its walls falls under the spell of amazing architecture and that special aura that fills the premises of the temple. A visit to the basilica is free, but if you want to see the tomb of St. Peter and go up to the observation deck to see Rome from a bird’s eye view, you will have to pay.
2. Pantheon
The Pantheon is a temple built between 118-125 BC. n. e. In 609, it was converted into a Roman Catholic church. An interesting feature of the building is a small circular window in the ceiling – Oculus. This is the only place through which sunlight enters the interior of the building. The Pantheon was designed by architect Filippo Brunelleschi. Italian kings and famous historical figures are buried under the vaults of the building. Admission is free, but you can take a paid guide.
3. Trevi Fountain
There are always a lot of tourists around it. It is believed that if you throw a coin into the waters of the fountain, you will certainly return to Rome. A monument of architecture, amazing in its beauty, beautiful at any time of the year, illuminated at night. Once you see the Trevi Fountain, you will never forget.
4. Arch of Constantine
The building is located near the Colosseum and is the largest triumphal arch in Rome, which has survived to this day. The age of the 21-meter monument is more than 17 centuries, but despite this, it has been remarkably preserved. The arch is named after Emperor Constantine, who managed to end the civil war and bring peace to the Roman Empire.
5. Spanish Steps and Plaza de Espana
One of the most beautiful and popular squares in Rome is located at the foot of the Trinita dei Monti church. From the square you can climb the stairs to the temple, enjoy the view of the ancient city from there, and take unique photographs. Particularly impressive are the Plaza de Espana and the Spanish Steps in the spring, surrounded by flower beds with blooming azaleas.
6. Monument to Vittorio Emmanuel II
The monument, located near Piazza Venezia, was erected in honor of the unification of Italy. Behind it is a museum, an art gallery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
7. Mouth of Truth
A sculpture with such an unusual name is another object in Rome that can be seen for free. It is a round marble slab located in the portico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. The age of the sculpture is more than two thousand years. In the old days it was used as a lie detector. It was believed that if you put your finger in your mouth and tell a lie, you can lose your finger.
8. Church of San Clemente
The Basilica in honor of St. Clement looks like a building with three levels; built in the 12th century. late church, temple of the 4th century and two buildings that appeared in the 1st century. n. e. The basilica is interesting for its wall paintings: mosaics, frescoes and inscriptions in vernacular Italian. Under the vaults of the building are the relics of St. Clement and Ignatius the God-bearer.
9. Piazza del Popolo
This is the name of one of the most important markets in Rome, connecting it with the northern coast. The main object of the square is the Church of Maria del Popolo, built a millennium ago. In the middle of the market rises a genuine Egyptian obelisk, mined in the temple of the Heliopolis of the Sun and brought to Rome in the tenth century. The market is ideally suited for shopping, walking, admiring the work of street artists.
10. Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is one of the most famous and beautiful squares in Rome. Located in the city center, in close proximity to the Pantheon. It is decorated with three fountains, and along the perimeter it is surrounded by many cafes, restaurants and bars. It is quite crowded, but still a favorite place for tourists and locals. As you can see, it’s not at all difficult to create a program of free tours of Rome. It remains only to find cheap air tickets, download a guidebook and send it on your way.
