Hey Y’all!
Today we’re exploring more of Rome — this time out on the streets, soaking up the ancient ruins and Baroque beauty that make this city so unforgettable.
People say Rome is like a lasagna—it’s just layer upon layer of history stacked on top of each other. You can be standing in a modern piazza and not realize that 20 feet below you is an ancient stadium.
Today, I’m taking you on our walk through the heavy hitters: The Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain.
The Icon: The Colosseum
You can’t go to Rome and not pay your respects to the Colosseum. We didn’t tour the inside this trip (we were short on time), but honestly? You don’t have to go in to feel the power of this place.
Just standing outside, looking up at those massive travertine arches and the neighboring Arch of Constantine, is overwhelming. It has stood the test of time for nearly 2,000 years. It is massive, imposing, and absolutely beautiful.
The “Hidden” History of Piazza Navona
From Ancient Rome, we jumped forward to the Baroque era… or so we thought.
We visited Piazza Navona, which is famous for its fountains. But look closely at this sign we found:
The entire square is shaped like a long oval because it sits directly on top of the ancient Stadium of Domitian. It was a total surprise to me! We didn’t go into the underground ruins, but just knowing that we were walking on top of an ancient sports arena gave me chills.
The star of the show here is the Fountain of the Four Rivers. It’s big, dramatic, and topped with a huge Egyptian Obelisk.
The Engineering Miracle: The Pantheon
Next up was the Pantheon. This is the best-preserved building from ancient Rome, and it is spectacular.
We went inside for a tour, and the sheer size of the dome is hard to comprehend. The “Oculus” (the eye) in the center is the only source of light. It took me several tries to get a photo perfectly centered, but it was worth it!
Since the Pantheon is a church, there are pews inside. I sat down for a moment just to catch my breath and take it all in. It was shocking to find out that the famous painter Raphael is buried right there—inside a pagan temple turned church!
Treasures Along the Walk (Leather & Flowers)
The walk from the Pantheon to the Trevi Fountain is an attraction in itself. We passed a building dripping in purple flowers that stopped me in my tracks.
And, of course, we did some shopping! I found an incredible leather shop and bought bags for myself, my mom, and my sisters. I also picked up some special gifts for my niece, Daisy Jo (who was only 3 months old at the time!). I bought her a fabric backpack and a matching doll, and I had them personalized with her name right there on the apron. I also found a hand-carved wooden Pinocchio—he was born in Italy, you know!
The Grand Finale: Trevi Fountain
Nothing prepares you for the Trevi Fountain. You hear it before you see it. The water is loud!
I was shocked by two things: the sheer size of it (it is NOT a little fountain!) and the crowds. It was shoulder-to-shoulder, people everywhere. But it’s one of those “free” things in Rome that you just have to do.
We threw our coins in (right hand over left shoulder!) to ensure our return to Rome. Then, we did the most important thing of all: we grabbed some gelato in cones from a shop right across the street. We just stood there eating our gelato, watching the fountain and people-watching. It was the sweet life.
Practical Tips for The Sights
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The Colosseum: You don’t have to go inside to appreciate it. If you are short on time (or hate lines), the exterior view is still awe-inspiring.
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The Pantheon: It is a church, so remember to be respectful. Sitting in the pews is a great way to rest your feet and stare at the dome.
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Trevi Crowds: Expect it to be packed. If you want a photo at the rail, just be patient and inch your way forward.
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Shopping: Don’t ignore the small shops between the monuments! That is where you find the best leather goods and keepsakes.
A Little About Me
Hi y’all, I’m Tara! There’s nothing I love more than traveling the world with my husband, Mike, and exploring the beauty of God’s handiwork. As an avid reader, when I’m not off on a real-life adventure, you can usually find me reading about one!
I poured that passion into my business, Tailored Travel, a full-service travel agency where my team and I would be tickled to help you cross off the next destination on your list—including this beautiful place.
Let’s Start Designing Your Dream Trip!
Email: tara@tailoredtravel.vacations
Phone: (423) 641-1070
