Jubilee 2025 is an extraordinary event that will draw millions of pilgrims and tourists to Rome this year. This circumstance will be the perfect opportunity to discover the wonders of the Eternal City. To help you plan your trip, we have selected 10 things to see in Rome, including unique places of extraordinary religious, historical and artistic interest. We guarantee your visit will be an unforgettable experience.
1. St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican
St. Peter’s Basilica is the heart of Catholic Christianity, a symbolic site for Jubilee 2025.It is located in Vatican City, in the center of Rome. The imposing dome of St. Peter’s Basilica was designed by Michelangelo Buonarroti. Its interior contains masterpieces of art history such as Michelangelo’s Pieta and the striking high altar. Also added to these is St. Peter’s Baldachin, one of the most famous works by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, a symbol of the Baroque. Bernini also designed the square outside the Basilica, known worldwide for its monumental colonnade.
2. The Sistine Chapel
When visiting the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel is a must-see. Here you can admire some of Michelangelo’s most famous frescoes, including the Creation of Adam and the Last Judgment. Ro access the Sistine Chapel, you will have to visit the Vatican Museums. These consist of no less than 54 galleries and 4 different museums. The halls of the Vatican Museums are home to some of the greatest masterpieces in the history of world art. Remember that the Vatican Museums are one of the most visited museums in the world, so you may find long lines at the entrance. Book your ticket well in advance, or choose a tour that gives you exclusive priority access to the Vatican Museums such as Forexchange’s “Rome’s Best in 1 day: Reserved-Access Guided Tour of the Vatican & Colosseum 2 in 1”.
3. Castel Sant’Angelo
Castel Sant’Angelo was built in the 2nd century AD as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian. Throughout history it will be used as a fortress, as a prison even as a barracks. The imposing building is now a museum that gives a very impressive view of the center of Rome. Crossing the Ponte Sant’Angelo, adorned with striking statues of angels, is very atmospheric, both during and at nightfall. This location offers very striking views of the Tiber River.
4. Trastevere and the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere
The Trastevere neighborhood is one of the most charming in Rome. It is known for its picturesque narrow streets and typical restaurants. There is a unique atmosphere here. In the heart of the neighborhood is the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in Rome, known for its spectacular golden mosaics. Explore its beauty by choosing the tour “The Heart of Rome: guided group walk through romantic Trastevere”.
5. The Basilica of St. John Lateran
The Basilica of St. John Lateran is also known as the “Mother of all Churches”. This, in fact, is the first of the four major papal basilicas and the oldest basilica in the West. It is located on the Caelian Hill. Consecrated in 324, the basilica has been renovated several times over the centuries. Inside you will find works of art of extraordinary valor. Admire the spacious square in front of the Basilica, the famous Piazza San Giovanni. Be sure to visit the Scala Sancta, a unique place of devotion located right next to the Basilica of St. John.
6. The Colosseum and the Imperial Forums
The Colosseum is one of the most famous monuments in the world, the symbol of the city of Rome. If you are in the capital, you cannot miss a visit to the Colosseum. This amphitheater, built in the first century AD, could seat about 50,000 spectators, representing one of the most impressive buildings of antiquity. Near the Colosseum you will find the Imperial Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, with its temples and colonnades. Learn more about this unique place with Forexchange’s “Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Guided Tour”.
7. The Pantheon
The Pantheon is another spectacular building from Roman times that is definitely worth a visit. Built by Emperor Hadrian between 112 and 124 A.D., it began as a Roman temple dedicated to all the gods; today it is a Catholic church that houses the tombs of the Kings of Italy. Its dome, characterized by a large central oculus, is a masterpiece of engineering and architecture.
8. The Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic places in Rome. Famous is the scene from Dolce Vita, in which actress Anika Ekberg bathes in the famous fountain calling out to Marcello Mastroianni, “Marcello, come here!” When you find yourself in front of this beautiful Baroque fountain remember to respect the tradition: before you leave, throw a coin into the fountain to ensure good luck and a future return to Rome!
9. Navona Square
Piazza Navona is one of the most extraordinary places in the city. This square originated as an ancient stadium, built in 85 AD by Emperor Domitian. A very lively and busy place, during the Renaissance this square was flooded for incredible water features. Embellished in monumental style by the Pamphili family, three unique fountains can be admired here: the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the Fountain of the Moor and the Fountain of Neptune. In addition, the beautiful Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone is also located here.
10. Catacombs and the Via Appia Antica
Catacombs are ancient underground Christian cemeteries. These tunnels winding through the Roman underground represent one of the most striking testimonies to the origins of Christianity. To visit these unique places and learn more about the history of the oldest Catholic Rome, discover Forexchange’s “Roman Basilicas and Secret Underground Catacombs on the Appian way” tour.
Discover the best of Rome, selected for you by Forexchange. Want to learn more and want to freely explore the secrets of the Eternal City? Download the Forexchange audio guide to Rome. For more information, visit one of the Forexchange branches in Rome. We will answer all your questions about how to best experience your trip to Rome, from currency exchange to travel eSims , and more. We are waiting for you!
Photo Credits:
djedj, Pixabay