ABOUT ROME

Rome General Information

Location: Central-western portion of the Italian Peninsula

Elevation: 21 m (69 ft)

Size: City of Rome - 1,285 km² (496.3 sq mi); Metropolitan area - 5,352 km² (2,066.5 sq mi)

Population (2016): City of Rome - 2,876,051; Metropolitan area - 4,340,419

Rome, often referred to as "The Eternal City", is not only the capital of Italy but also a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. With its roots extending back over two millennia, Rome's rich heritage is visible in its breathtaking monuments and archaeological sites including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum.

As the birthplace of Western civilization and home to the Vatican City, Rome holds an unparalleled significance in world history. Its streets teem with stories of emperors, gladiators, and popes. Today, Rome seamlessly combines the past with the present, offering contemporary entertainment, media, fashion, and a buzzing culinary scene.

Rome offers endless entertainment for visitors: art galleries, theaters, concerts, operas, and a vibrant nightlife in its many clubs, bars, and piazzas. Numerous international festivals, religious ceremonies, and parades also find their stage in the city, often against the dramatic backdrop of its ancient ruins.

Moreover, the outskirts of Rome offer equally enchanting experiences. The Roman countryside, known as the "Castelli Romani", is dotted with charming vineyards and historic hilltowns. The nearby Tyrrhenian coast provides a perfect seaside escape, while the ancient port town of Ostia showcases well-preserved ruins. Further afield, the rolling hills of Tuscany, the rugged beauty of the Abruzzo region, and the serene beaches of Sardinia beckon travelers for more Italian adventures.

Rome, a city where every corner whispers tales of epochs gone by, is an unmissable gem in the heart of Italy.