When you think of taking a trip to Rome, it’s highly likely that it’s this area of the city that’s on the top of your list. And why wouldn’t it be? It’s dramatic! And by dramatic I don’t mean because of the vast array of cinematic endeavors either filmed today, or set in this area during its glory days. It’s the contrast of centuries of life still visible, touchable, and layered on top of each other. This area is easily walkable in just one day.
The Altar of the Fatherland is the largest National monument in Italy designed by sculpture Angelo Zanelli. It was inaugurated by King Vittorio Emanuele III in 1911 to celebrate of the 50th Anniversary of the unification of Italy. There is a little outdoor pub across the street from the Altar that is a great place to sit during aperitivo time and watch the sun set behind this building and watch the lights to come on. It’s very beautiful.
The Altar abuts the Roman Forum which was the city center of ancient Rome. The Forum was the heart and soul of the city where elections, processions, markets, places of worship and government buildings surrounded a large open space for Romans to gather. It’s here where the “news” was broadcast and celebrations took place. You can still feel the energy that must have been present during its zenith when you walk through the ruins. It’s that sense that will no doubt make you think, or say something like, “I bet they never dreamed this place would be in ruins and become nothing more than a tourist destination”. You can still feel it.
Walking through the Forum east to west will bring you out at the Arch of Constantine and the Colosseum. The Arch of Constantine was built by the Roman Senate in honor of Constantine’s victory over Maxentius and spans the Via Triumphal, the way taken by emperors who returned victorious.
The Colosseum was officially dedicated in 80 AD by Titus with 100 days of games. Titus was one of the rare well-loved Emperors due to his response and recovery efforts following the eruption of Vesuvius that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum so the people where quite supportive of this build. The Colosseum seated 50,000 people and was host to a variety of events but most notably, gladiator combat, wild animal fights and mock naval engagements where they actually flooded the arena. And yes, it hosted the martyrdom of Christians for sport. I don’t think that was Titus’ intention when he built it. Over time, the Colosseum has eroded and been rebuilt. Today, 2/3rds of what you see is actually rebuilt in recent years.
To see all of this you need only buy one ticket that allows access to the Forum and the Colosseum. The rest is free…and amazing!