The Guide to Essential Italy

Visiting the sites along the Tiber River, which tell Rome's story; climbing the Monte Caprino, one of Rome's seven hills, to see sculptures, Michelangelo's magnificent piazza, and palaces; exploring the artworks of the Church of the Aracoeli.

Visiting the Piazza Venezia, known for its Renaissance and Baroque palaces, famous talking statues and the church of Santa Maria di Loreto; exploring the imposing forums of Trajan and Augustus and the history and lore of Rome's iconic Colosseum.

Learning about the marvels of Roman hydraulic engineering and visiting the massive Circus Maximus; exploring the ruined baths; discovering the palace complex of Domitian, the houses of Augustus and Livia and the Renaissance Farnese Gardens.

Visiting the preserved city of Pompeii, with its view into the lives of Roman citizens; envisioning the grandeur of Pompeii's forum; exploring mansions and bakeries; stopping at the theater and arena; visiting the Villa of Mysteries.

Learning about the history of the epicenter of Rome's empire; visiting key sites of the forum, including the Temple of Venus and Roma; stopping at the Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine and the House and Temple of the Vestal Virgins.

Exploring the highlights of the Roman Forum and grasping the functions of the Basilica Aemilia and the Basilica Julia; visiting pagan shrines; learning the stories of the Church of Saints Mark and Martina and the Mamertine Prison.