Which are the best Roman ruins: what to see and what to miss in Rome
21.07.2023 - 07:45
/ roughguides.com
/ emperor Hadrian
/ Julius Caesar
Roman ruins are fascinating, but which of them are really worth seeing? Take a look at the five Roman ruins we think you should definitely visit on your Rome trip. The information below is based on The Rough Guide to Italy, your travel guide for Italy.
The Roman Forum is a must for its unique insight into one of the most powerful Empires in history. This was not only the heart of Republican Rome, it was also the city's political hub and so the hub of the entire Roman Empire.
As well as a meeting place for citizens, the Forum served as Ancient Rome's main marketplace. And several major religious institutions, like the House of the Vestal Virgins and the Temple of Julius Caesar, were also part of the complex.
In 3AD the Forum was almost entirely destroyed by fire, so much of its former grandeur has to be left to the imagination. But it is still the city's most impressive collection of ruins and most visited, so be sure to book Roman Forum tickets in advance.
The Roman Forum is the most unmissable of Roman ruins © Rudy Balasko/Shutterstock
You'll find the imposing Arch of Constantine sitting grandly opposite the Colosseum. Erected in 315AD it technically commemorates the Milvian Bridge victory by Emperor Constantine.
But get up close enough to see the detail and you discover the three arch structure was actually recycled from older monuments. So there are panels from the Arch of Marcus Aurelius and Emperor Hadrian monument, as well as columns from a monument to Emperor Trajan.
To get under the skin of Rome and learn more backstories of monuments like the Arch of Constantine, think about taking a 2-day immersive tour of the city in the company of expert local guides. You might also find our guide to where to stay in Rome an area by area guide useful too.
The recycled Arch of Constantine and the Colosseum in Rome © ncristian/Shutterstock
Head to the Palatine Hill and visit the House of Augustus for an in-depth look at an Ancient Roman lifestyle at its wealthiest and most cultured.
The House of Augustus was originally the residence of the first Emperor Augustus and all its main rooms are named after architectural details — pay particular attention to the intriguing Room of the Masks.
Rome's fascinating imperial history is more than a little complex, so to uncover its secrets and make the most of every minute of your trip, consider booking a private, guided Imperial Insights tour of the city.
House of Augustus major Roman ruins on Palatine Hill © David Ionut/Shutterstock
Head to Porta Maggiore to see the Tomb of Eurysaces the Baker and learn about early social mobility during the Augustan era.
The tomb celebrates the life and times of Marcus Vergilius Eurysaces, a freed slave who amassed vast wealth running a