History and Culture of Rome

["https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F0zMv0bQOn6tlk508IngV%2F2.png?alt=media&token=8d5b2134-7274-4e34-8bd0-73651dc7811c","https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F0zMv0bQOn6tlk508IngV%2F1.png?alt=media&token=83777a9f-91f4-4b46-ae42-8a899d3240cd","https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2Ft61KGxxWA11yc1w357BL%2Fvat.jpg?alt=media&token=6f2725ac-88ac-4126-bf3c-a7cadd5e0d8d","https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2Ft61KGxxWA11yc1w357BL%2Fvatican%202.jpg?alt=media&token=2d0a9973-eaff-41b7-9e79-0c71add4fe17","https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2Ft61KGxxWA11yc1w357BL%2Fcastel%203.jpg?alt=media&token=7c8fcc95-e140-4f06-9546-b7ececfbb5e0","https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2Ft61KGxxWA11yc1w357BL%2Fcastel%202.jpg?alt=media&token=6399c9bb-e944-4eac-81bc-86eb08638c50"]

[{"media":[{"content":{"place_id":"ChIJzboap7lhLxMRhYRRYP4_j1A"},"type":"place"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F0zMv0bQOn6tlk508IngV%2F2909_br_02_p_2048x1536.jpg?alt=media&token=0821e92e-0b22-43c0-8ce0-acaef00c3dde"},{"content":"Good morning. I hope you slept well and are ready for a full day exploring Rome. Before we get going, I recommend heading downstairs for breakfast.\n\nThe buffet opens at 7:00am and has something for everyone. If you’re after a light start, grab a croissant with fresh fruit and a strong espresso. Want something more filling? Go for eggs with crispy bacon or try a continental spread with cured meats, cheeses and freshly baked bread.\n\nYou can also opt for a quick express breakfast if you're short on time. Whether you're taking it slow or fuelling up fast, this is the perfect way to get set for the day.\n\nOnce you're satisfied and ready, we’ll step straight into the heart of the city.","type":"text"}],"ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F0zMv0bQOn6tlk508IngV%2Ftts_0.mp3?alt=media&token=d5345d8b-07ac-42d0-bfd0-1328530b2612","location":{"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitude":12.49808970000001,"latitude":41.89002101424359,"longitudeDelta":0.1641157563245757},"address":"Mercure Roma Centro Colosseo","placeId":"ChIJzboap7lhLxMRhYRRYP4_j1A"},{"ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F2eoPFaT69ZCRT5Bg4ktZ%2Ftts_1.mp3?alt=media&token=8693155b-5ff1-4eb8-968e-aa0036c0e480","placeId":"ChIJKcGbg2NgLxMRthZkUqDs4M8","address":"Vatican Museums","media":[{"content":{"place_id":"ChIJKcGbg2NgLxMRthZkUqDs4M8"},"type":"place"},{"type":"text","content":"To understand the significance of the Vatican and its treasures, we must first step back and uncover the origins of Rome itself. According to legend, the city was founded in 753 BCE by Romulus and Remus, twin brothers raised by a she-wolf. As the story goes, Romulus eventually killed Remus and named the city after himself. While this tale is shrouded in myth, Rome’s actual history is no less fascinating.\n\nEarly Rome began as a small settlement on Palatine Hill, one of the famous Seven Hills of Rome. Over time, it grew into a monarchy, then a republic, and finally, the mighty Roman Empire. The Republic, established in 509 BCE, saw Rome expand its influence through military conquests and political alliances. By the time of the Empire, starting with Augustus in 27 BCE, Rome controlled vast territories stretching from Britain to North Africa and the Middle East.\n\nFor centuries, Rome thrived as the heart of civilization, pioneering innovations in architecture, law, and governance. However, the empire faced internal struggles, economic decline, and external invasions, ultimately leading to its fall in 476 CE. Though the Western Roman Empire collapsed, its legacy endured, influencing art, religion, and politics for centuries to come.\n\nAs the Roman Empire declined, Christianity emerged as a powerful force, shaping the future of the city. The Vatican’s origins date back to the early days of Christianity, when Emperor Constantine the Great legalized the faith in 313 CE through the Edict of Milan. He later commissioned the construction of Old St. Peter’s Basilica on what was believed to be the burial site of Saint Peter, one of Jesus’ apostles.\n\nOver time, the Vatican became the center of Catholicism, attracting pilgrims from across the world. The influence of the Church grew, and by the Renaissance, popes played a crucial role in commissioning and preserving some of the greatest artworks in history. Today, the Vatican is a city-state within Rome, home to the Pope, and a treasure trove of artistic and religious masterpieces.\n\nNext, we head into the Vatican Museums, home to one of the most extensive and valuable art collections in the world. These museums were established in the early 16th century by Pope Julius II, who sought to showcase the artistic and historical wealth of the Church. Since then, they have grown into an extraordinary collection spanning thousands of years of history, culture, and spirituality.\n\nWalking through the grand halls, you’ll discover priceless sculptures, Renaissance paintings, and breathtaking tapestries. Every corridor leads to another incredible artistic treasure, reflecting the artistic patronage of the Vatican throughout history.\n\nOne of the standout sections is the Gallery of Maps, a corridor lined with large, detailed frescoes depicting the various regions of Italy. Created in the 16th century, these maps showcase how people at the time understood geography, offering a fascinating glimpse into Renaissance-era cartography.\n\nAnother must-see is the Raphael Rooms, commissioned by Pope Julius II and painted by Raphael and his students. The most famous fresco here is The School of Athens, which symbolizes classical philosophy and knowledge, featuring figures like Plato and Aristotle at its center.\n\nThe pinnacle of our Vatican visit is the Sistine Chapel, one of the most breathtaking artistic achievements in history. Originally built in the 15th century, it was later transformed by Michelangelo, who painted its legendary ceiling between 1508 and 1512. His frescoes depict biblical scenes, with The Creation of Adam standing as one of the most famous images in the world.\n\nAt the far end of the chapel, you’ll see The Last Judgment, painted decades later by Michelangelo. This powerful fresco portrays the Second Coming of Christ and the final judgment of souls, blending dramatic movement, intense emotion, and unparalleled artistic skill.\n\nAs you step into the chapel, take a moment to absorb its sacred atmosphere. Every inch of its ceiling and walls tells a story, reflecting both the artistic genius of Michelangelo and the deep religious devotion of the Vatican.\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fvatican%201.jpg?alt=media&token=04c92817-d3e8-45b6-9ea4-b2d192437ea4"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fvatican%202.jpg?alt=media&token=4f5d6150-f5e8-4576-b976-2d851309aa93"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fsistine%202.jpg?alt=media&token=e97c4ce4-945e-469c-8b28-0e789f25fe17","type":"img"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fsistine%201.jpg?alt=media&token=5cca4e5f-da78-45d8-8c75-0030519f1569"}],"location":{"latitude":41.90672891425192,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitudeDelta":0.18593639059244998,"longitude":12.453505099999992}},{"ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F2eoPFaT69ZCRT5Bg4ktZ%2Ftts_2.mp3?alt=media&token=643fdfc1-6f9e-4f4f-a78d-e716a35220a4","media":[{"content":{"place_id":"ChIJWZsUt2FgLxMRg1KHzXfwS3I"},"type":"place"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fsp%20basilica.jpg?alt=media&token=75d7e674-e0d9-4c8d-90d7-39a8bf8b7538"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fsp%20basilica%202.jpg?alt=media&token=a425698d-e98f-4014-8908-264a808593b0","type":"img"},{"type":"text","content":"Arriving at St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most significant churches in the world, you’ll be greeted by its awe-inspiring dome, designed in part by Michelangelo. Inside, marvel at its breathtaking interior, where highlights include Bernini’s Baldachin, an intricate bronze canopy towering over the Papal Altar, and Michelangelo’s Pietà, a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture.\n\nTake a moment to admire the sheer scale and beauty of the basilica, from its towering columns to the elaborate mosaics decorating the ceiling. Before moving on, step outside into St. Peter’s Square, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, where the grandeur of the colonnades and the central Egyptian obelisk create an unforgettable setting.\n\nOnce the visit is complete, we’ll return to Crowne Plaza Rome - St. Peter’s via the hotel shuttle for an afternoon of relaxation.\n\n"}],"address":"St. Peter's Basilica","placeId":"ChIJWZsUt2FgLxMRg1KHzXfwS3I","location":{"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":41.90212411424963,"longitude":12.45844115000001,"longitudeDelta":0.18593639059244998}},{"ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F2eoPFaT69ZCRT5Bg4ktZ%2Ftts_3.mp3?alt=media&token=c6867053-4dcb-42c2-ad03-37900251d0db","media":[{"content":{"place_id":"Eh5QLnphIFBpYSwgMDAxOTMgUm9tYSBSTSwgSXRhbHkiLiosChQKEgmBVIX4XGAvExFDiINWWyh4hxIUChIJu46S-ZZhLxMROG5lkwZ3D7k"},"type":"place"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fpiazza%20pia%202.jpeg?alt=media&token=d6d87087-c791-4348-9337-88ecd499dbe1","type":"img"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fpiazza%20pia%201.jpg?alt=media&token=33b13709-7b86-4db1-8dcb-e5f8819bb26a"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fpiazza%20pia.jpg?alt=media&token=64863d52-49e1-48ee-8a24-a02510205cd1","type":"img"},{"type":"text","content":"Stepping out from Vatican City, we arrive at Piazza Pia, a newly redeveloped pedestrian-friendly square that beautifully connects St. Peter’s Basilica with Castel Sant’Angelo. This transformation has created a welcoming open space where locals and visitors alike can walk freely without the interruption of traffic.\n\nTake a moment to appreciate the seamless blend of modern city planning with Rome’s ancient roots. The square offers a tranquil space for a short break before continuing to one of Rome’s most fascinating historical landmarks.\n\n"}],"address":"Piazza Pia","placeId":"Eh5QLnphIFBpYSwgMDAxOTMgUm9tYSBSTSwgSXRhbHkiLiosChQKEgmBVIX4XGAvExFDiINWWyh4hxIUChIJu46S-ZZhLxMROG5lkwZ3D7k","location":{"longitude":12.46432979999999,"longitudeDelta":0.18593639059244998,"latitude":41.902963314250044,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421}},{"address":"Castel Sant'Angelo","ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F2eoPFaT69ZCRT5Bg4ktZ%2Ftts_4.mp3?alt=media&token=62ae933d-318a-498c-8b53-77f8359fec98","placeId":"ChIJ0aTnEYeKJRMRiUF95xwRbDY","location":{"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":41.90280201424998,"longitude":12.466279049999999,"longitudeDelta":0.18593639059244998},"media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJ0aTnEYeKJRMRiUF95xwRbDY"}},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fcastel%203.jpg?alt=media&token=aca7ee72-0984-48e1-9d87-3d5c7976714d","type":"img"},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fcastel%202.jpg?alt=media&token=2d4695fd-0ba8-4fe8-bb1c-2b3a76142650","type":"img"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F8ljrE9QGBPAkAyjZR73n%2Fcastel.jpg?alt=media&token=6bb79752-58c9-43b6-b55f-f323fad6bf04"},{"content":"Approaching Castel Sant’Angelo, prepare to step into a fortress that has stood for nearly 2,000 years. Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, it later became a papal residence, a prison, and even a military stronghold.\n\nAs you explore its winding corridors, frescoed rooms, and hidden passages, you’ll uncover stories of intrigue, battles, and papal escape routes. Climb to the terrace, where breathtaking panoramic views of the Tiber River and Vatican City await, offering one of the best viewpoints in Rome.\n\nOnce you’ve taken in the history, return to St. Peter’s Basilica for the next stop on our journey.\n\n","type":"text"}]},{"location":{"latitude":41.89002101424359,"longitudeDelta":0.1641157563245757,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"longitude":12.49808970000001},"ttsFile":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F0zMv0bQOn6tlk508IngV%2Ftts_5.mp3?alt=media&token=966676e4-b88a-4e30-ba01-55f364ac437b","media":[{"type":"place","content":{"place_id":"ChIJzboap7lhLxMRhYRRYP4_j1A"}},{"content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F0zMv0bQOn6tlk508IngV%2F2909_bab002_03_p_2048x1536.jpg?alt=media&token=0684b941-a6db-4d71-bbdf-fdcfaa19093c","type":"img"},{"type":"text","content":"I hope you had a great day exploring. Now it’s time to relax back at the hotel and enjoy a drink to close it out.\n\nYou’ve got two solid options. Il Gladiatore is a cosy spot inside, ideal for a quiet glass of wine or a cocktail. If the weather’s good, head up to the rooftop Pool Bar La Grande Bellezza and enjoy an evening drink with a view of the Colosseum.\n\nA classic Negroni or Aperol Spritz is always a good choice. Or go for something local, like a Lazio white wine or a chilled Italian beer. It’s a great way to ease into the evening.\n\nIf you're not quite ready to leave Rome behind, staying another night could be just the thing. There's always more to see tomorrow."}],"address":"Mercure Roma Centro Colosseo","placeId":"ChIJzboap7lhLxMRhYRRYP4_j1A"}]