A blend of ancient and modern, religious and secular, harmony and chaos, Rome, the capital of Italy, is captivating. Overflowing beyond its original boundaries – the seven hills and the Tiber River – Rome surprises, enchants, and exasperates... No city in the world is a richer museum of human civilization. But modern Rome is above all the secular metropolis of a dynamic nation, caught in the whirlwind of politics and business. For the most part, today's Romans remain indifferent to their magnificent surroundings. Yet, it is they who contribute to making this city so fascinating, living life to the fullest. Everything about them is gestures, religiously avoiding the sun, honking their horns at full volume to celebrate their football club's victory, parking their Fiats in triple file, and downing their espresso in one gulp. Choosing Rome for a language trip is an excellent choice to learn Italian.
2,866 million inhabitants
Ancient City, River, Sea
2 hours from Geneva
Located at the confluence of the Aniene and Tiber rivers, the city of Rome is situated in the central part of Italy, in the region of Lazio. The center of the Italian capital is 25 km from the Tyrrhenian Sea, while the historic center stretches across seven hills. Rome is located 228 km north of Naples and 276 km south of Florence. The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot, dry summers. The sea cools the summer temperatures, while the Apennine Mountains can cause cold air currents in winter.
Ancient and complex, the history of the city of Rome begins when different tribes form an alliance around the 7th century BC. The foundation of the city takes place on the Palatine Hill. Following the Etruscan rule, the Roman Republic expands its dominion over Italy and the Mediterranean. Rome becomes the center of the world and the most populous city, until the decline of the Empire, enduring numerous plundering. Thanks to the papacy, the Renaissance is a prosperous era for the city, and monuments flourish. In 1870, with the Italian unification, Rome becomes its capital. Visitors discover these edifices, witnesses of a long history.
The surrounding hills represent the natural heritage on which Rome has relied. As a place of relaxation in this urban setting, the Pincio, accessible from Piazza del Popolo, offers a pleasant walk with its fountains and obelisk. Historical sites and religious buildings are plentiful in Rome: Colosseum, Pantheon, Roman Forum, St. Peter's Basilica, St. John Lateran Basilica, Piazza Navona... After a football match at the Stadio Olimpico, discovering Italian cuisine in trattorias or pizzerias is a must: fresh vegetables, cuts of meat, and pecorino cheese. Festivities are primarily religious but include events such as the International Film Festival.
The main airport serving the city, Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport, is located southwest of the city center. The capital of Italy is also served by railway lines, long-distance bus lines, and even ferries. On-site, while traffic congestion is common, the urban transport network includes bus lines, trams, and the metro. The cost of living is high. For shopping, visitors can go to Piazza di Spagna, Via del Corso, Trastevere, Porta Portese, or Viale Marconi.
Rome Tourism Office:
Ag. Regionale Promozione Turistica di Roma e del Lazio Spa
Via Parigi, 11 - 00185 Roma
Phone: +39 06 4893 0729
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