Built to show off the escalating power of Rome and as a free entertainment gift from the Emperor to his people. By ‘entertainment†during those days meant seeing Gladiators (usually slaves or prisoners-of-war) fighting for their lives against ferocious animals like lions…the dark side of Romeâ€s glorious days… Damn barbaric and sickening if you ask me.

Walking inside the Colosseum brings mixed feelings because of that. Just imagine the cruelty and bloodshed that took place around these walls in the past. The below pictures show underground tunnels and cages where Gladiators and animals were held before their turn to enter the arena.

But the wisdom that went into the construction has been passed down as a reference to modern stadiums. Such as the crowd control and seating arrangement…a trade-off? Whatever the case, this is one major landmark not to miss in Rome.

The beautiful Arch of Constantine right beside Colosseum, a triumphal arch erected to celebrate the victory of Constantine over Emperor Maxentius.

I would suggest paying an additional 2 Euro booking fee and buy the tickets online to avoid the long ticket queue. Else, buy your tickets at Palatine Hillâ€s entrance since the queue here is always shorter. The same ticket will allow you to enter the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill over a two days period.

Palatine Hill

We walked towards Palatine Hill which is close to the Colosseum. According to a local myth, the ancient hill was where Romulus had founded Rome. Itâ€s where the wealthy Romans called home before the emperors decided to build their palaces on these high grounds. But few buildings remained to tell on its glorious days.

This whole place is massive and can take a lot of walking to cover, which is no joke under the hot sun. But whatâ€s more frustrating is that thereâ€s no clear information signage to make sense of the whole site, as most are minimal remains of what once stood here.

Roman Forum

Next to Palatine Hill is the Roman Forum which contains important ruins of Ancient Rome. Hereâ€s the area where temples, statues and government buildings were located. Probably just like the modern day city hall. I supposed Roman Forum would be one important place which speeches, meetings, and ceremonial events took place.

Similar to Palatine Hill, the ruins at Roman Forum are hard to make sense of without any information. But judging by the remains of the tall columns, large buildings, and temples, itâ€s easy to tell the grandness in its heyday. And itâ€s amazing to be walking on the original roads dated thousands of years back. Even with the uneven roads now scream ‘I am gonna hurt your ankle LOL

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Every corner streets to each individual stone tell a story dated back for god knows how long. Itâ€s probably this unique atmosphere or aura that makes Rome, Rome. And the most iconic places to visit in Rome are none other than the magnificent trio – Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum.

The Monument to Victor Emmanuel II

After visiting the trio, the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II is next, also commonly known as Altar of the Nation. The impressive white marble monument was built to honour Victor Emmanuel II who was the first King to unified Italy.

The huge horseman statue of Victor Emmanuel II.

Right below the kingâ€s statue is a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a symbol dedicated to all unknown fallen soldiers of Italy. In addition, the tomb is flank by two guards and thereâ€s a ceremonial changing of the guards throughout the day.

The Trevi Fountain

This is another prominent landmark and perhaps the most well-known baroque fountain in Rome. Located at the junction of three roads, which is how Trevi Fountain derived its name (tre & vie). Photo taking around the small surrounding area of the beautiful fountain can be frustrating since there are people literally everywhere at all times.

Thereâ€s a saying that youâ€ll be sure to return to Rome if you throw a coin over your shoulder and into the water of Trevi Fountain. Well, I didnâ€t do that and yet still somehow find myself back here 3 years later…

The Spanish Steps

Not far from Trevi Fountain is Spanish Steps is the small but beautiful Barcaccia Fountain. The stairs itself is packed with people lazing around or taking a break. And I guess most people may be here for the shopping since Romeâ€s most famous shopping street. Since Via Condotti is just directly in front of the steps. Hereâ€s where the boutiques of the worldâ€s most luxurious brands congregate.

STAY: Hotel Giorgi Rome review

Hotel Giorgi is situated near to Roma Termini Station and is a plus since we will be taking Leonardo Express to the airport two days later. The reasonable price comes with free Wifi and breakfast. The decent sized room is cosy and comfortable which is nice. Probably not so nice is getting to our room on the 3rd level using the small and not-so-dependable-looking cage lift. And seems like it might break down anytime…

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