There is far more to see in Rome that you could cram into the average-sized guidebook. This means that one of the pleasures of the city is the tucked-away sights that you discover by chance. For me, one of these was the Case Romane del Celio, a little known underground complex of Roman houses on …
Case Romane Del Celio: Ancient Houses On The Caelian Hill Read More »
Roman aqueducts were a remarkable feat of engineering. They were built to last, and many are still standing today. and many are still visible today. One of the best places to see ancient aqueducts in Rome is in the Parco degli Acquedotti. But why were these structures needed, and what is there for the visitor …
Parco Degli Acquedotti And The Aqueducts Of Rome Read More »
There is a reason why Pompeii is such a popular tourist destination. For anyone who is interested in Roman history the exceptionally well preserved site gives lots of clues about everyday life in Roman times. You can walk along ancient streets, peer into the old buildings, and enjoy some remarkable frescoes. And it is set …
A Visit To Pompeii: Beneath The Shadow Of Vesuvius Read More »
Trento, in northern Italy, is best known as a Renaissance city. However, the area has been settled since ancient times, most notably by the Romans, who arrived in the 1st century BC. They founded a city which they named Tridentum and, if you look hard enough, you can still see plenty of evidence of the …
At one time the Circus Maximus in Rome was just a vast grassy area. A pleasant place for a walk, or a picnic perhaps, but nothing more. But recent excavations at one end of the site have uncovered some of the original brickwork – seating, shops and more. The excavated area opened to visitors at …
My first view of Ostia Antica was from the air, as the plane came in to land at Fiumicino Airport. I could see its position in relation to the sea and the River Tiber. And I could see the size of the place, the ruins of an entire Roman town. This was going to be …
Exploring Roman History At Ostia Antica, Rome’s Ancient Sea Port Read More »
People have sought entertainment at the Arena di Verona since Roman times. Two thousand years ago they travelled from across the Empire to watch gladiators and wild animals fighting to the death, or to marvel at slightly less bloody circus acts and equestrian events. Visitors still pack into the stadium today, but for a quite …
The Verona Opera Festival: Following In The Roman Tradition Read More »