Thousands of years ago, unknowing settlers discovered seven hills. Over time, the grassy land around Capitoline Hill, Palatine Hill, Aventine Hill, Quarinal Hill, Viminal Hill, Esquiline Hill, and Caelian Hill, developed into a city rivaled by no other. Rome is often referred to as the Eternal City, La Città Eterna, and for good reason. The City’s historical and cultural significance is visible in all facets of current western civilization. Our architecture, government, and society are all products of Rome’s past.

The ruins of ancient Rome exist among the city’s newer buildings, and together they stand as a symbol of an immortal power. In modern times, Rome is still looked upon as a place of influence. The

headquarters of the Catholic faith is centered in Vatican City. Artists and fashion designers continue to flock to Rome in an attempt to create works that may one day sit side by side with the masterpieces of Michelangelo and Raphael. The now unified government of Italy is focused in Rome, and every day politicians help to run one of the oldest cities in the world.

As the expression goes, “All roads lead to Rome.” During the Roman Empire, this was literally true, as every major road eventually ended or passed through Rome. The saying is used today to suggest that all things lead to the center. For thousands of years, and now still, Rome is both the foundation of the modern world, and the heart of Italy.

Rome Travel Guides
 Frommer's Rome
 Lonely Planet Rome
 Let's Go Rome
 Fodors Rome