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The history of Rome goes back to the ancient gods. Roman historians Livy and Virgil both claimed Romulus founded Rome by way of Aeneas (son of Venus) through a series of events, starting when Aeneas fled Troy and his ship landed at the mouth of the Tiber. He then went to war with the local inhabitants, created Lavinium. Alba Longa was founded by his son Ascanius. The legend continues that the god Mars had relations with a Vestal Virgin named Rhea Silvia. The product of this union was Romulus and Remus. Rhea Silvia then abandons the twins on the banks of the Tiber River, where they were adopted and raised by wolves. As an adult Romulus marked out the area where the new city (known today as Rome) was to be built. Rome did not become the official capital of Italy until 1870, over a thousand years later.
Rome is unique in its ability to have such a beautiful mix of antiquities and medieval structures. Known as the eternal city, you can only begin to comprehend what that means as you wander her streets. This year is the Jubilee year in Rome. For the first time in twenty years all of the scaffolding and covers are down. Tourists and Romans alike can once again view Rome in her full glory.
Deciding on taking a tour or going it on your own is always a hard choice. A tour is more expensive, but saves you time, provides security, and places you with like minded individuals. You also have the option to combine travel on your own with day tours. Day tours are easily arranged through your hotel concierge. With a day tour you can select where you go either with a private guide or sign on to a prearranged group. When staying in Rome it is very important to have a hotel in the city center. A good question to ask is "can I walk to the Spanish Steps?" Try not to stay near the train station. The airport is not near the city. A taxicab from the Rome airport to a hotel in the city center costs about $45.00 USD. Always agree on your price before getting in to a taxi.
Getting a good meal in Italy is never a problem. While you are in Rome, however, you might want to try some typically Roman and not just Italian fare. I recommend trying the Filetti di Baccala, a deep-fried cod filet. It was once a Jewish specialty, which became beloved by the Roman palate. You also should not leave Rome without having the suppli di Riso. They are a fried rice croquette stuffed with buffalo mozzarella and spices. They make an excellent snack. Romans make divine deserts to go with their fabulous Café. Torta di Ricotta, a cheesecake filled with marsala, lemon, and ricotta is a must! Try it while sipping your Espresso.
If you are staying as recommended by the Spanish Steps, that is an excellent place to start your sightseeing. The Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna are at the heart of the hotel district. They have long been the haunts of tourists and expatriates. Built by Francesco de Sanctis in the 1720's to connect the Church of Trinita dei Monti to the square below. The Fontana Barcaccia came later built by Bernini's father Pietro.
You should plan to have a whole day to visit the Vatican and its adjoining museums. A Wednesday is the best day to plan for because that is the only day the Pope does audiences. The Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms and St. Peters definitely should be done in conjunction with the Vatican. Be prepared to wait in line.
Palatine is where Romulus drew out the original city. A visit to Palatine hill is definitely in order. You can see where the huts of Romulus reportedly stood, visit the Temple of Cybele. My place on the Palatine Hill is the Cryptopoticus. The Cryptopoticus is an elaborate underground gallery built by Nero.
If you decide to go it on your own, contact the Italian Tourist Board they are a wealth of free information. They will provide you with maps, hotel recommendations, day tour operators, and walking tour itineraries. Keep reminding yourself you can live in Rome for fifty years and still not see everything.
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