Collaborative post
Few countries in Europe are as attractive to a history buff as Italy. From Ancient Rome to the Renaissance, it’s a nation that’s steeped in culture that has reverberated around the world for millennia.
If you’re thinking about joining the increasing numbers of UK tourists visiting Italy, there are plenty of choices of sights to take in. While there are hardly any wrong answers, here are four of the most significant options.
The Colosseum of Rome
Perhaps the most iconic site in a city replete with iconic sites, the Colosseum is a must-visit for anyone even remotely interested in Ancient Rome. This monumental amphitheatre, which once played host to gladiator battles and other public spectacles, is more accessible than ever thanks to restoration efforts over recent years which have helped to open up previously restricted areas like its underground rooms and tunnels.
The ruins of Pompeii
When Mount Vesuvius erupted in the year 79 CE, the city of Pompeii was destroyed, but it was astonishingly well preserved in the ash and has been fastidiously maintained over the centuries, giving visitors a unique glimpse into life in Ancient Rome. Many guided tours of Italy include in-depth exploration of Pompeii, allowing you to get expert insight as you experience a window into the past up close and personal.
Florence’s Duomo and Renaissance legacy
Italy’s rich history doesn’t end with the fall of the Roman empire. It’s also the birthplace of the Renaissance era, with the city of Florence in particular being central to the movement. Completed in 1436 at the dawn of the Renaissance, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – commonly known as the Duomo – is the city’s architectural masterpiece and part of what makes the centre of Florence a UNESCO World Heritage site. It adds up to making the city one of the best to visit to learn more about a time of previously unprecedented cultural enlightenment.
Venice’s St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace
The canal city of Venice’s storied maritime history is reflected in its stunning architecture, with the grand St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace – occupied for many years by the former rulers of the Venetian Republic – standing out as its most essential sights.
A trip to Venice today offers a fascinating look at not just one of the most influential of the many states that have since become part of modern-day Italy but also how that history is being preserved in the face of rising sea levels. All this while enjoying romantic gondola trips through one of the most unique cities in the world!