Rome is also famous for its squares and fountains. With over 100 piazze in the historic centre, admire the art and sculptures whilst sipping on a latté and watch the world go by. The most famous piazza for this Italian ritual is Piazza Navona. Often described as the most beautiful in Italy, this square contains sculptures by Bernini and various cafes and restaurants. Piazza Della Rotonda contains the historic Pantheon. Famous for the hole in the roof and used as a sundial in ancient times, after more than 2,000 years it is still used as a church today.

Piazza di Spagna with its famous steps and Bernini fountain is a famous gathering place for Romans and foreigners alike. Piazza del Popolo (the People’s Square) with its Egyptian obelisk and twin churches contains glorious works of art by Caravaggio.

Rome is of course home to the Catholic Church. The Vatican City is completely independent from Italy with its own laws and taxes. Encompassing only 110 acres and with a population of only 800, the Catholic church’s power and wealth can be seen all over Italy. Housing the biggest church in the world, St. Peter’s, and the adjoining Vatican Museums enjoy priceless works of art. Artists such as da Vinci, Rafael, Titan, Bernini and of course Michelangelo are all on display here.

The churches of Santa Maria Maggiore and San Giovanni located near the Hotel Giolitti, form part of the most important Basilica’s inside the Roman Walls together with St. Peter’s. Commissioned in the 13th century both contain glorious artwork and sculptures.