San Giovanni Rotondo
San Giovanni Rotondo in southern Italy is the location of shrine Padre Pio, the second most visited Catholic shrine in the world. Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina, who's tomb this shrine is centered upon, died in 1968 and was declared a saint in 2002. He was a Capuchin friar, priest and mystic known for caring for the sick and his devotion to God, as well as his supernatural gifts. San Giovanni Rotondo is located approximately 180 miles east of Rome in Puglia. Also located nearby is Monte Sant'Angelo, another important Catholic shrine visited by Pope John Paul II.
Milan
Milan is a city that arouses extreme feelings, just like the city lifestyle. A frenetic, restless rhythm is part of both work and leisure, so much so that it is difficult to stay unmoved and not get overwhelmed by all the cultural and social stimulus.
Maybe for this reason, Milan makes itself indispensable, because it is impossible to feel so alive and full of energy when you are away from the city. Milan is always one step ahead: a laboratory of artistic experiments and a building site for social behavior that is continuously changing. City full of contradictions, ancient and modern, trends and counter-trends, fashion and underground, middle class and working class, but always simply “cool”.
Padua
Extraordinary Padua, Italy, just 20 mi/30 km west of Venice, was one of the locales in Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew.
Its beautiful streets hold numerous attractions, including a 13th-century university, what's thought to be the oldest Italian clock (the 1344 clock tower at Palazzo del Capitano) and various other art-filled, eye-pleasing buildings.
If you've lost anything, then you're in the right city: St. Anthony, the saint of lost things, is also the patron saint of Padua. Every 13 June, the saint's feast day, thousands of pilgrims flock to the 13th-century Basilica di Sant'Antonio to pray for the recovery of whatever they have lost. The grand basilica is noted for its Byzantine influences and eight domes.
On the square outside the church, admire Donatello's equestrian statue of the statesman Gattemelata (the Honeyed Cat). But many art lovers make the trip to Padua just to visit the Scrovegni Chapel with Giotto's stunning, gemlike frescoes, the most complete medieval fresco series still intact.
Padua is best seen as a half-day trip from Venice.
Assisi
Assisi is a well-preserved medieval town that's, after the Vatican, Italy's
second most-popular religious-pilgrimage destination. Located high on a hilltop,
it has an air of mystical serenity in keeping with its history. Assisi was the
home of St. Francis (the founder of the Franciscan order of friars), and the
churches and crypt that bear his name draw a steady stream of pilgrims and sightseers
every year. Although the town was rocked by an earthquake in 1997, much of the
damage has been repaired. One of the most severely damaged buildings, however,
was the treasured Basilica of San Francesco, known for its vivid frescoes by
Giotto that depict the life of the saint. The upper basilica has recently reopened
and, though restoration continues, many of the beloved frescoes can be admired
again. The lower basilica and St. Francis' tomb are also open to the public.
Other places of interest include the Church of Santa Chiara, a medieval fortress
(La Rocca Maggiore), the Piazza del Comune (the old town center) and St. Peter's
church. Or just stroll the narrow, picturesque streets and listen to the musicians
practicing nearby (though they may be drowned out by construction noises --
many buildings are still under renovation).
You may want to visit during one of Assisi's numerous celebrations: the Feast
of Calendimaggio, a five-day coming-of-spring festival with medieval costumes,
dances and songs (around the first week of May); a month of folklore and musical
events in August; or the Feast of St. Francis (4 October), which celebrates
the saint's transition from this life into the next. During this two-day festival,
the entire town is illuminated by oil lamps. If you are going to Assisi at one
of these times, reserve accommodations well ahead of time -- the city will be
filled with pilgrims.
Turin
Italians say that Turin (Torino), the major city of the western Alps, seems more French than Italian. Its wide boulevards in a grid pattern and its 17th- and 18th-century architecture do bear more resemblance to Paris than Florence. A stroll about the city center provides architectural enthusiasts examples of Renaissance, baroque, turn-of-the-century and modern buildings. The city is also distinguished by miles/kilometers of 18th-century colonnades.
Turin is the capital of Piedmont, a region that even Italians consider to have the best food in Italy. Many years of French occupation have left a mark on Piedmontese cuisine, which includes more cheese dishes and sauces than is common in traditional Italian cooking. The Piedmontese are an independent-minded people who have invented their own style of cuisine that is neither French nor Italian, but incorporates the best of both. Turin also has a well-deserved international reputation for its coffee and claims to have invented chocolate, or at least gianduiotto, the delicious confection made from chocolate and hazelnut. Temptation beckons in every window, so it is best to leave your diet at home.
Ravenna
Ravenna is located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy and is connected to the the Adriatic Sea by the Corsini Canal. The city is famed for its buildings that date from the 5th, 6th, and 7th centuries and for the mosaics that decorate many of the interiors. Most notable are the tomb of Galla Placidia; the octagonal baptistery of Archbishop Neon (flourished 5th century), which may have been transformed from a Roman bath; the octagonal Arian Baptistery (5th-6th century); and the Church of San Vitale (consecrated in 547). Ravenna also contains the tombs of the Ostrogothic emperor Theodoric, and of Dante.
Excursions
Ravenna: Byzantine Ravenna - 3.5 hours
You will bet met today at Ravenna port by your English-speaking driver and transferred the short distance into Ravenna, a UNESCO listed city where your guide will await you. Ravenna is famous for its remarkable Byzantine mosaics, considered the finest in Western Art. Visit the Cathedral of San Vitale with its elaborate mosaics dating from the 6th century AD and continue to the exquisite Basilica of Sant' Apollinare in the nearby village of Classe before returning to Ravenna port.
Highlights:
- Explore the UNESCO city of Ravenna
- Visit the Basilica of Sant' Apollinare
Tour Duration: 3.5 hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- An expert English-speaking guide in Ravenna (3h30 min)
- Entrance fees to the San Vitale and Basilica Sant’Apollinare
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Ravenna: Medieval & Gastronomic Bologna - 6 hours
Meet your English-speaking driver at Ravenna port today and head into the stunning city of Bologna where your expert local guide will be waiting for you. Often overlooked by other visitors, the superbly preserved medieval city center is a pleasant surprise. Home to Europe’s oldest university, the city has a proud heritage of churches, squares and palaces including the 14th-century Basilica of San Petronio.
Bologna is also proud of its nickname “the fat one” because of all the superb food that comes from the area. Tour the ancient markets and food shops with your guide tasting local products such as fresh pasta, cheeses, hams, salami’s etc. Return to Ravenna port from here.
Highlights:
- Explore Bologna, home to Europe's oldest University
- Tour Bologna's wonderful markets and food shops
Tour Duration: 6 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at disposal during the tour
- An expert English-speaking guide in Bologna (4 hours)
- Entrance fees to San Petronio Basilica
- Food tastings throughout the tour
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Ravenna: Maranello - Drive a Ferrari on its Home Territory - 8 hours
Journey with your driver into the heart of Italy to the town of Maranello, home to the iconic Ferrari Company. Enjoy time to independently explore the Galleria Ferrari, a place where Ferrari’s past, present and future is preserved giving the visitor a fascinating insight into the history of the Prancing Horse.
In the afternoon enjoy a truly memorable experience as you get behind the wheel of a Ferrari and feel the exhilaration of driving a super-car out into the Italian countryside (please remember your driving license). A professional will also accompany you in the passenger seat.
Highlights:
- Explore the Galleria Ferrari
- Drive a Ferrari through the Italian countryside
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- Entrance fees to the Galleria Ferrari
- 30 minute drive (per person) in a Ferrari
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Ravenna: Parma Walking Tour - 7 hours
Today you will enjoy an excursion to explore the city of Parma. Upon arrival in Parma, meet your English-speaking guide for a sightseeing tour. Stroll around the piazza at the heart of the city, and see the stunning 12th century Duomo di Parma and its pink marble Baptistery, considered to be among the most important medieval monuments in the country.
You may also wish to visit the Pilotta Palace, a large complex that houses galleries, art collections and the amazing 17th century wooden Teatro Farnese. Spend time in the National Gallery, one of Italy’s most important, or in the Teatro Farnese; constructed as the largest theatre in the world in 1618, it was built entirely of wood and could seat 4500 people.
Highlights:
- See Parma's stunning 12th-century Duomo di Parma and its pink marble Baptistery
Tour Duration: 7 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide in Parma (3 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
Rome
Sprawled across seven legendary hills, romantic and beautiful Rome was one
of the great centers of the ancient world. Although its beginning is shrouded
in legend and its development is full of intrigue and struggle, Rome has always
been and remains the Eternal City.
Rome enjoyed its greatest splendor during the 1st and 2nd centuries when art
flourished, monumental works of architecture were erected, and the mighty Roman
legions swept outward, conquering all of Italy. These victorious armies then
swept across the Mediterranean and beyond to conquer most of the known world.
With Rome's establishment as capital of the western world, a new ascent to glory
began.
Today's Rome, with its splendid churches, ancient monuments and palaces, spacious
parks, tree-lined boulevards, fountains, outdoor cafes and elegant shops, is
one of the world’s most attractive and exciting cities. Among the most famous
monuments is the Colosseum. As you walk its cool, dark passageways, imagine
the voices that once filled the arena as 50,000 spectators watched combats between
muscled gladiators and ferocious animals.
Stop to see the remains of the Forum, once the city's political and commercial
center. In later times, Rome's squares were enhanced with such imposing structures
as the Vittorio Emanuele Monument and grandiose fountains like the Fontana di
Trevi. Join the millions who stand in awe of Christendom’s most magnificent
church and admire the timeless masterpieces of Michelangelo's frescoes in the
Sistine Chapel.
Rome jars the senses and captures the soul. Grasp all you can during the short,
precious time you have available in the Eternal City. With so much to see and
do, a day or two will only allow you a sampling of the city's marvelous treasures.
Caution: As in many big cities and tourist destinations purse snatching
and pickpocketing is common. Valuable jewelry and excess cash are best left
in a safety deposit box in your hotel.
Shopping For most visitors shopping for beautiful Italian leather articles,
designer shoes, fashions for men and women, linens, knitwear, silk scarves and
ties is a favorite pastime. Except for tourist-oriented shops, the majority
of stores are closed on Sundays. Some of the department stores, such as Rinascente,
open in the late afternoon on Sundays.
Cuisine Rome's choice of restaurants is mindboggling as is the variety
of cuisine. Whether your meal is at a top-rated restaurant or a rustic trattoria,
you can be sure that you will enjoy your food, especially when accompanied by
wines from the hill towns surrounding Rome.
Other Sights Rome's attractions are endless, and depending on how much
time you have at your disposal a careful selection has to be made about what
to see. Be aware of horrendous traffic conditions and major construction work
all around the city in preparation of Jubilee 2000, the Holy Year. Some of the
sights not to be missed:
Piazza Venezia - This busy square is easily recognized by its imposing Vittorio
Emanuele II Monument. The white marble structure was inaugurated in 1911 as
a symbol of Italy’s unification.
The Forum - Once the civic heart of ancient Rome, today the remains include
a series of ruins, marble fragments, isolated columns and some worn arches.
Colosseum - No visit to Rome is complete without a stop at this awe-inspiring
theater, which is among the world’s most celebrated buildings. Here ancient
Rome flocked to see gladiatorial contests and numerous other spectacles.
Trevi Fountain - Take a stroll to Rome's famous fountain. A spectacular fantasy
of mythical sea creatures and cascades of splashing water, the fountain is one
of the city's foremost attractions. Legend has it that visitors must toss a
coin into the fountain to ensure their return to Rome.
St. Peter's Square - Part of Vatican City, this square created by Bernini
is considered one of the loveliest squares in the world. Twin Doric colonnades
topped with statues of various saints and martyrs flank either side of the square.
In the center stands an 84-foot obelisk, brought from Egypt in 37 A.D.
St. Peter's Basilica - At the head of the square stands Christendom's most
magnificent church, which was begun in 1452 on the site where St. Peter was
buried. Throughout the following 200 years, such Renaissance masters as Bramante,
Michelangelo, Raphael and Bernini worked on its design and created an unparalleled
masterpiece. Of special note are Michelangelo's Pieta and the bronze canopy
over the high altar by Bernini. The immense dome was designed by Michelangelo.
Vatican Museum - To see this museum's immense collection would take days.
As you enter, there are special posters that plot a choice of four color-coded
itineraries. They are repeated throughout the museum and are easy to follow.
It is a good idea to pickup a leaflet at the main entrance and concentrate on
exhibits of major interest. Of course, the Sistine Chapel is a must. Most likely
you may have to wait in line to enter.
San Giovanni Rotondo in southern Italy is the location of shrine Padre Pio, the second most visited Catholic shrine in the world. Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina, who's tomb this shrine is centered upon, died in 1968 and was declared a saint in 2002. He was a Capuchin friar, priest and mystic known for caring for the sick and his devotion to God, as well as his supernatural gifts. San Giovanni Rotondo is located approximately 180 miles east of Rome in Puglia. Also located nearby is Monte Sant'Angelo, another important Catholic shrine visited by Pope John Paul II.
Milan is a city that arouses extreme feelings, just like the city lifestyle. A frenetic, restless rhythm is part of both work and leisure, so much so that it is difficult to stay unmoved and not get overwhelmed by all the cultural and social stimulus.
Maybe for this reason, Milan makes itself indispensable, because it is impossible to feel so alive and full of energy when you are away from the city. Milan is always one step ahead: a laboratory of artistic experiments and a building site for social behavior that is continuously changing. City full of contradictions, ancient and modern, trends and counter-trends, fashion and underground, middle class and working class, but always simply “cool”.
Extraordinary Padua, Italy, just 20 mi/30 km west of Venice, was one of the locales in Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew.
Its beautiful streets hold numerous attractions, including a 13th-century university, what's thought to be the oldest Italian clock (the 1344 clock tower at Palazzo del Capitano) and various other art-filled, eye-pleasing buildings.
If you've lost anything, then you're in the right city: St. Anthony, the saint of lost things, is also the patron saint of Padua. Every 13 June, the saint's feast day, thousands of pilgrims flock to the 13th-century Basilica di Sant'Antonio to pray for the recovery of whatever they have lost. The grand basilica is noted for its Byzantine influences and eight domes.
On the square outside the church, admire Donatello's equestrian statue of the statesman Gattemelata (the Honeyed Cat). But many art lovers make the trip to Padua just to visit the Scrovegni Chapel with Giotto's stunning, gemlike frescoes, the most complete medieval fresco series still intact.
Padua is best seen as a half-day trip from Venice.
Assisi is a well-preserved medieval town that's, after the Vatican, Italy's
second most-popular religious-pilgrimage destination. Located high on a hilltop,
it has an air of mystical serenity in keeping with its history. Assisi was the
home of St. Francis (the founder of the Franciscan order of friars), and the
churches and crypt that bear his name draw a steady stream of pilgrims and sightseers
every year. Although the town was rocked by an earthquake in 1997, much of the
damage has been repaired. One of the most severely damaged buildings, however,
was the treasured Basilica of San Francesco, known for its vivid frescoes by
Giotto that depict the life of the saint. The upper basilica has recently reopened
and, though restoration continues, many of the beloved frescoes can be admired
again. The lower basilica and St. Francis' tomb are also open to the public.
Other places of interest include the Church of Santa Chiara, a medieval fortress
(La Rocca Maggiore), the Piazza del Comune (the old town center) and St. Peter's
church. Or just stroll the narrow, picturesque streets and listen to the musicians
practicing nearby (though they may be drowned out by construction noises --
many buildings are still under renovation).
You may want to visit during one of Assisi's numerous celebrations: the Feast
of Calendimaggio, a five-day coming-of-spring festival with medieval costumes,
dances and songs (around the first week of May); a month of folklore and musical
events in August; or the Feast of St. Francis (4 October), which celebrates
the saint's transition from this life into the next. During this two-day festival,
the entire town is illuminated by oil lamps. If you are going to Assisi at one
of these times, reserve accommodations well ahead of time -- the city will be
filled with pilgrims.
Italians say that Turin (Torino), the major city of the western Alps, seems more French than Italian. Its wide boulevards in a grid pattern and its 17th- and 18th-century architecture do bear more resemblance to Paris than Florence. A stroll about the city center provides architectural enthusiasts examples of Renaissance, baroque, turn-of-the-century and modern buildings. The city is also distinguished by miles/kilometers of 18th-century colonnades.
Turin is the capital of Piedmont, a region that even Italians consider to have the best food in Italy. Many years of French occupation have left a mark on Piedmontese cuisine, which includes more cheese dishes and sauces than is common in traditional Italian cooking. The Piedmontese are an independent-minded people who have invented their own style of cuisine that is neither French nor Italian, but incorporates the best of both. Turin also has a well-deserved international reputation for its coffee and claims to have invented chocolate, or at least gianduiotto, the delicious confection made from chocolate and hazelnut. Temptation beckons in every window, so it is best to leave your diet at home.
Ravenna is located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy and is connected to the the Adriatic Sea by the Corsini Canal. The city is famed for its buildings that date from the 5th, 6th, and 7th centuries and for the mosaics that decorate many of the interiors. Most notable are the tomb of Galla Placidia; the octagonal baptistery of Archbishop Neon (flourished 5th century), which may have been transformed from a Roman bath; the octagonal Arian Baptistery (5th-6th century); and the Church of San Vitale (consecrated in 547). Ravenna also contains the tombs of the Ostrogothic emperor Theodoric, and of Dante.
Excursions
Ravenna: Byzantine Ravenna - 3.5 hours
You will bet met today at Ravenna port by your English-speaking driver and transferred the short distance into Ravenna, a UNESCO listed city where your guide will await you. Ravenna is famous for its remarkable Byzantine mosaics, considered the finest in Western Art. Visit the Cathedral of San Vitale with its elaborate mosaics dating from the 6th century AD and continue to the exquisite Basilica of Sant' Apollinare in the nearby village of Classe before returning to Ravenna port.
Highlights:
- Explore the UNESCO city of Ravenna
- Visit the Basilica of Sant' Apollinare
Tour Duration: 3.5 hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- An expert English-speaking guide in Ravenna (3h30 min)
- Entrance fees to the San Vitale and Basilica Sant’Apollinare
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Ravenna: Medieval & Gastronomic Bologna - 6 hours
Meet your English-speaking driver at Ravenna port today and head into the stunning city of Bologna where your expert local guide will be waiting for you. Often overlooked by other visitors, the superbly preserved medieval city center is a pleasant surprise. Home to Europe’s oldest university, the city has a proud heritage of churches, squares and palaces including the 14th-century Basilica of San Petronio.
Bologna is also proud of its nickname “the fat one” because of all the superb food that comes from the area. Tour the ancient markets and food shops with your guide tasting local products such as fresh pasta, cheeses, hams, salami’s etc. Return to Ravenna port from here.
Highlights:
- Explore Bologna, home to Europe's oldest University
- Tour Bologna's wonderful markets and food shops
Tour Duration: 6 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at disposal during the tour
- An expert English-speaking guide in Bologna (4 hours)
- Entrance fees to San Petronio Basilica
- Food tastings throughout the tour
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Ravenna: Maranello - Drive a Ferrari on its Home Territory - 8 hours
Journey with your driver into the heart of Italy to the town of Maranello, home to the iconic Ferrari Company. Enjoy time to independently explore the Galleria Ferrari, a place where Ferrari’s past, present and future is preserved giving the visitor a fascinating insight into the history of the Prancing Horse.
In the afternoon enjoy a truly memorable experience as you get behind the wheel of a Ferrari and feel the exhilaration of driving a super-car out into the Italian countryside (please remember your driving license). A professional will also accompany you in the passenger seat.
Highlights:
- Explore the Galleria Ferrari
- Drive a Ferrari through the Italian countryside
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
- Entrance fees to the Galleria Ferrari
- 30 minute drive (per person) in a Ferrari
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Ravenna: Parma Walking Tour - 7 hours
Today you will enjoy an excursion to explore the city of Parma. Upon arrival in Parma, meet your English-speaking guide for a sightseeing tour. Stroll around the piazza at the heart of the city, and see the stunning 12th century Duomo di Parma and its pink marble Baptistery, considered to be among the most important medieval monuments in the country.
You may also wish to visit the Pilotta Palace, a large complex that houses galleries, art collections and the amazing 17th century wooden Teatro Farnese. Spend time in the National Gallery, one of Italy’s most important, or in the Teatro Farnese; constructed as the largest theatre in the world in 1618, it was built entirely of wood and could seat 4500 people.
Highlights:
- See Parma's stunning 12th-century Duomo di Parma and its pink marble Baptistery
Tour Duration: 7 hours
Tour can Operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Low
Inclusions:
• Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
• An expert local guide in Parma (3 hours)
• Entrance fees
• All taxes
Exclusions:
• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities
Sprawled across seven legendary hills, romantic and beautiful Rome was one
of the great centers of the ancient world. Although its beginning is shrouded
in legend and its development is full of intrigue and struggle, Rome has always
been and remains the Eternal City.
Rome enjoyed its greatest splendor during the 1st and 2nd centuries when art
flourished, monumental works of architecture were erected, and the mighty Roman
legions swept outward, conquering all of Italy. These victorious armies then
swept across the Mediterranean and beyond to conquer most of the known world.
With Rome's establishment as capital of the western world, a new ascent to glory
began.
Today's Rome, with its splendid churches, ancient monuments and palaces, spacious
parks, tree-lined boulevards, fountains, outdoor cafes and elegant shops, is
one of the world’s most attractive and exciting cities. Among the most famous
monuments is the Colosseum. As you walk its cool, dark passageways, imagine
the voices that once filled the arena as 50,000 spectators watched combats between
muscled gladiators and ferocious animals.
Stop to see the remains of the Forum, once the city's political and commercial
center. In later times, Rome's squares were enhanced with such imposing structures
as the Vittorio Emanuele Monument and grandiose fountains like the Fontana di
Trevi. Join the millions who stand in awe of Christendom’s most magnificent
church and admire the timeless masterpieces of Michelangelo's frescoes in the
Sistine Chapel.
Rome jars the senses and captures the soul. Grasp all you can during the short,
precious time you have available in the Eternal City. With so much to see and
do, a day or two will only allow you a sampling of the city's marvelous treasures.
Caution: As in many big cities and tourist destinations purse snatching
and pickpocketing is common. Valuable jewelry and excess cash are best left
in a safety deposit box in your hotel.
Shopping For most visitors shopping for beautiful Italian leather articles,
designer shoes, fashions for men and women, linens, knitwear, silk scarves and
ties is a favorite pastime. Except for tourist-oriented shops, the majority
of stores are closed on Sundays. Some of the department stores, such as Rinascente,
open in the late afternoon on Sundays.
Cuisine Rome's choice of restaurants is mindboggling as is the variety
of cuisine. Whether your meal is at a top-rated restaurant or a rustic trattoria,
you can be sure that you will enjoy your food, especially when accompanied by
wines from the hill towns surrounding Rome.
Other Sights Rome's attractions are endless, and depending on how much
time you have at your disposal a careful selection has to be made about what
to see. Be aware of horrendous traffic conditions and major construction work
all around the city in preparation of Jubilee 2000, the Holy Year. Some of the
sights not to be missed:
Piazza Venezia - This busy square is easily recognized by its imposing Vittorio
Emanuele II Monument. The white marble structure was inaugurated in 1911 as
a symbol of Italy’s unification.
The Forum - Once the civic heart of ancient Rome, today the remains include
a series of ruins, marble fragments, isolated columns and some worn arches.
Colosseum - No visit to Rome is complete without a stop at this awe-inspiring
theater, which is among the world’s most celebrated buildings. Here ancient
Rome flocked to see gladiatorial contests and numerous other spectacles.
Trevi Fountain - Take a stroll to Rome's famous fountain. A spectacular fantasy
of mythical sea creatures and cascades of splashing water, the fountain is one
of the city's foremost attractions. Legend has it that visitors must toss a
coin into the fountain to ensure their return to Rome.
St. Peter's Square - Part of Vatican City, this square created by Bernini
is considered one of the loveliest squares in the world. Twin Doric colonnades
topped with statues of various saints and martyrs flank either side of the square.
In the center stands an 84-foot obelisk, brought from Egypt in 37 A.D.
St. Peter's Basilica - At the head of the square stands Christendom's most
magnificent church, which was begun in 1452 on the site where St. Peter was
buried. Throughout the following 200 years, such Renaissance masters as Bramante,
Michelangelo, Raphael and Bernini worked on its design and created an unparalleled
masterpiece. Of special note are Michelangelo's Pieta and the bronze canopy
over the high altar by Bernini. The immense dome was designed by Michelangelo.
Vatican Museum - To see this museum's immense collection would take days.
As you enter, there are special posters that plot a choice of four color-coded
itineraries. They are repeated throughout the museum and are easy to follow.
It is a good idea to pickup a leaflet at the main entrance and concentrate on
exhibits of major interest. Of course, the Sistine Chapel is a must. Most likely
you may have to wait in line to enter.