40 Surprising and Interesting Facts about Rome, Italy

The Eternal City is Italy’s most visited city, and it’s easy to see why. Rome is where history, culture and modernity blend seamlessly, creating a fascinating layer cake of wonders. As the capital of Italy and once the heart of the mighty Roman Empire, Rome continues to captivate visitors as it has done for centuries.

So, what is it about Rome that makes it such an enigmatic destination? For me, it’s many things. Rome is a gorgeous city that will steal your heart and make you want to return again and again. Let’s explore the 40 surprising and interesting facts about Rome that showcase its rich history, unique features and enduring legacy. These facts shed light on what makes Rome such a unique destination.

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Facts about Rome you probably don’t know

Today, Rome is not just a historical treasure trove but a vibrant, modern city. It’s an integral part of Italy, with significant national institutions, including the headquarters of the Italian Army. The city has expanded far beyond its ancient city limits, with its metropolitan area home to over 4 million people.

As you walk the streets of Rome, you’re walking through history and in the footsteps of emperors, gladiators, artists and countless Roman citizens who have left their mark on this eternal city. Whether you’re into the ancient Rome facts or a more modern version, here are the top ones I think everyone should know about the Eternal City.

Epic founding legend

One of the most well-known facts about Rome is its origin story. According to Roman mythology, Rome was founded by the twin brothers Romulus and Remus in 753 BCE. These legendary founders of Rome were said to have been raised by a she-wolf, a symbol that still represents the city today. Romulus became the first king of Rome and the first ruler of Rome, establishing the city’s early governance. The she-wolf has become an inspiration in art and literature and her symbol remains a powerful emblem of the city’s strength and resilience.

The seven hills of Rome

The city of Rome was originally built on seven hills: Palatine, Capitoline, Quirinal, Viminal, Esquiline, Caelian and Aventine Hill. The Palatine Hill, considered the birthplace of the city, was home to many Roman emperors. These seven hills played a crucial role in Rome’s defence and development, each with its own unique history and significance. Today, exploring these hills offers visitors a journey through Rome’s layered history, from ancient ruins to Renaissance palaces.

The Roman Forum was the heart of Ancient Rome

The Roman Forum was the center of political, religious and social life in ancient Rome. Today, its ancient ruins provide a glimpse into the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Walking through the Forum today, you can almost hear the echoes of impassioned speeches and the bustle of daily Roman life. Its ruins tell the story of Rome’s rise to power, its golden age, and its eventual decline, making it an invaluable resource for historians and archaeologists.

The Colosseum is a marvel of engineering

Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, the Colosseum could hold up to 80,000 spectators. It was used as a venue for gladiator fights, animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and even naval battles when the arena was flooded. Emperor Vespasian began its construction in 72 CE, which his son Titus completed in 80 CE. The Colosseum’s design was revolutionary, featuring a complex system of underground chambers and mechanical elevators to raise wild animals and gladiators to the arena floor. The Colosseum is a testament to Roman engineering prowess and their cultural emphasis on public spectacles.

Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece

The Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome. According to the legend, throwing a coin into the fountain ensures your return to Rome, and brings good luck. The fountain, designed by Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762, is a stunning example of Baroque art, depicting Neptune’s chariot led by Tritons with seahorses. The fountain’s water supply comes from one of Rome’s ancient aqueducts, connecting modern visitors to the city’s ancient infrastructure.

The Vatican is a city within a city

Vatican City is the smallest independent country in the world, covering just 0.44 square kilometres. It’s an enclave within Rome and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Despite its small size, Vatican City wields enormous global influence as the center of the Catholic faith. It houses priceless art collections, extensive archives, and unique architectural marvels like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. The Vatican’s status as an independent state, established by the Lateran Treaty in 1929, allows it to operate as a sovereign entity, issuing its own passports, stamps and euros.

St. Peter’s Basilica is the world’s largest church

St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world, covering an area of 22,300 square meters (about 240,000 square feet). It’s said to be built over the tomb of St. Peter, the first Pope. This architectural marvel took over 120 years to complete, involving some of the Renaissance’s greatest artists and architects, including Michelangelo, Bernini and Bramante. The basilica’s dome, designed by Michelangelo, remains an engineering feat, inspiring countless other domes worldwide. As the most important church in Catholicism, St. Peter’s hosts major religious ceremonies and attracts pilgrims from around the globe.

The Sistine Chapel is Michelangelo’s masterpiece

The Sistine Chapel, famous for its frescoes painted by Michelangelo, took four years to complete. The artist had to paint the ceiling lying on his back on scaffolding. This monumental work covers over 5,000 square feet and includes over 300 figures. The ceiling’s centrepiece, “The Creation of Adam,” is one of the most replicated religious paintings. Beyond its artistic value, the Sistine Chapel serves a crucial function in the Catholic Church as the site where cardinals gather to elect a new pope.

Rome’s first emperor left a mark

Augustus became the first Roman emperor in 27 BCE, transforming Rome from a republic to an empire that would last for centuries. His reign, known as the Pax Romana, ushered in a period of relative peace and prosperity that lasted for two centuries. Augustus implemented wide-ranging reforms in administration, the military and public works, laying the foundation for the Roman Empire’s longevity. He famously claimed that he “found Rome a city of brick and left it a city of marble,” referring to his extensive building programs.

The Pantheon still a feat of ancient engineering

The Pantheon, built in 126 CE, has the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. Its oculus, a 9-meter-wide hole in the center of the dome, is the building’s only source of natural light. This architectural marvel has puzzled and inspired architects for nearly two millennia. The dome’s exact composition remains a mystery, with modern concrete unable to replicate its durability. Originally built as a temple to all Roman gods, the Pantheon was later converted into a Christian church, which helped preserve it through the centuries.

The Circus Maximus was Ancient Rome’s largest venue

The Circus Maximus was ancient Rome’s largest stadium, capable of seating 250,000 spectators. It was primarily used for chariot racing and other public games. This massive entertainment venue, measuring 621 meters in length and 118 meters in width, played a crucial role in Roman social and political life. Chariot races were more than mere entertainment; they were deeply intertwined with Roman religion, politics, and social dynamics. Maximus’s outline is still visible, offering visitors a sense of its enormous scale and historical significance.

Rome’s cats are its protected citizens

One of the fun facts about Rome is that it’s home to thousands of stray cats, which are protected by law. The Torre Argentina cat sanctuary, located among ancient ruins, cares for hundreds of feral cats. This unique aspect of Rome’s urban landscape reflects the city’s blend of ancient history and modern compassion. The cats of Rome have been celebrated in literature and art for centuries, with many considering them the guardians of the city’s ruins. The legal protection of these felines dates back to a 1991 law that declares cats living in groups of two or more have the right to live freely in their colony.

The Tiber River was Rome’s lifeline

The River Tiber played a crucial role in Rome’s history, providing water, transportation and defence. According to legend, Romulus and Remus were found by the she-wolf on the Tiber’s banks. Throughout history, the river has been both a blessing and a curse, providing resources but also causing destructive floods. The Tiber’s embankments, built in the late 19th century to control flooding, dramatically changed the city’s relationship with the river. Today, efforts are underway to reconnect Romans with their historic river through new pedestrian areas and riverside developments.

Trajan’s Market was the world’s first shopping mall

Built in the 2nd century CE by Emperor Trajan, Trajan’s Market is considered the world’s first ever shopping mall. This multi-level complex contained over 150 shops and offices. Its innovative design included a covered market, small shops, and larger warehouses, showcasing the sophistication of Roman urban planning and architecture. The market was a commercial center and a social hub where Romans gathered to shop, socialize and conduct business. Its remains offer valuable insights into daily life in ancient Rome and the empire’s advanced economic systems.

Underground Rome holds many secrets

Beneath modern Rome lies a vast network of underground tunnels, catacombs and ancient structures, some dating back to the ancient city. This subterranean world includes early Christian burial sites, Mithraic temples, ancient apartment buildings, and even Nero’s buried Golden House. Exploring these underground spaces offers a unique perspective on Rome’s history, revealing aspects of daily life, religious practices, and urban development that are not visible above ground. The constant discovery of new underground sites continues to reshape our understanding of ancient Rome and provides ongoing challenges for modern urban development.

The Capitoline Museums are the oldest public museums

Founded in 1471, the Capitoline Museums on Capitoline Hill are considered the world’s oldest public museums. Established with Pope Sixtus IV’s donation of a collection of important ancient bronzes to the people of Rome, these museums marked a significant shift in the concept of cultural heritage as a public good. The museum’s collection includes iconic works such as the ancient bronze sculpture of the she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus and the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius.

Rome’s talking statues were common place

In the 16th century, Romans used to paste notes with satirical messages on certain statues, giving them voices to criticize the government anonymously. This tradition, known as “pasquinate” after Pasquino, the most famous of these talking statues, represented a unique form of political protest and social commentary. At a time when freedom of speech was limited, these statues became the voice of the ordinary people, expressing discontent with corruption, social inequalities and political decisions.

The Spanish Steps are a gathering place

The Spanish Steps, connecting the Piazza di Spagna and the Trinità dei Monti church, is a popular gathering place and one of Rome’s most recognizable landmarks. Completed in 1725, this Baroque masterpiece was designed by Francesco de Sanctis and funded by French diplomat Étienne Gueffier. The 135 steps have been a favored spot for artists, poets and tourists for centuries. They featured in famous works like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s “Italian Journey” and the film “Roman Holiday.”

Piazza Navona was once a stadium

Piazza Navona was built on the site of the Stadium of Domitian, a 1st-century stadium used for athletic contests and gladiatorial games. One of the most interesting facts about Rome is that this piazza’s distinctive elongated shape follows the outline of the original stadium. Dominated by Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, with its dramatic sculptures representing four major rivers of the four continents known at the time, Piazza Navona is a testament to Baroque art and urban planning.

La Sapienza is Rome’s oldest university

Founded in 1303, La Sapienza is one of the oldest universities in the world and the largest in Europe. Established by Pope Boniface VIII, it has played a crucial role in Italian and European intellectual life for over seven centuries. The university has educated numerous notable alumni, including six popes, two Italian presidents and three Nobel laureates. La Sapienza’s long history reflects the evolution of higher education in Europe, from its medieval origins focused on canon law and medicine to its current status as a comprehensive research university.

The Passetto di Borgo was the pope’s secret passage

The Passetto di Borgo is a secret passage connecting the Vatican to Castel Sant’Angelo and its existence is one of the lesser-known facts about Rome. The passage was used by popes as an escape route during times of danger. This elevated passageway, about 800 meters long, was built in 1277 by Pope Nicholas III. Its most famous use came in 1527 when Pope Clement VII used it to flee during the Sack of Rome by the troops of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V.

Rome’s drinking fountains are safe to use

Rome has over 2,000 public drinking fountains, known as “nasoni” (big noses), providing free, fresh water throughout the city. These fountains, introduced in the late 19th century, are a modern continuation of ancient Rome’s advanced water supply system. The name “nasoni” comes from their distinctive shape, with a curved spout resembling a nose. The water comes from the aqueducts that have supplied Rome for millennia and is safe to drink.

The Catacombs hide underground burial places

Rome’s catacombs, which cover over 170 kilometres, were used as burial places by early Christians and Jews. These underground networks of tunnels and chambers date back to the 2nd century CE and provide crucial insights into early Christian art and burial practices. The catacombs were created outside the city walls due to Roman law prohibiting burial within the city. They served not only as burial grounds but also as places of worship during times of persecution. Today, several catacombs are open to the public, offering a haunting glimpse into Rome’s subterranean history and the lives of its early Christian inhabitants.

Julius Caesar’s assassination influenced history

Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BCE at the Theatre of Pompey (Curia di Pompeo), not at the Roman Forum as was commonly believed. This event, one of the most famous in Roman history, marked the end of the Roman Republic and paved the way for the Imperial era. The conspiracy, led by Brutus and Cassius, involved over 60 senators who feared Caesar’s growing power. The choice of location – a theatre built by Caesar’s former ally and rival, Pompey – adds an extra layer of irony to the event.

Roman’s blonde hair beauty secret

In ancient times, Roman women used goat fat and beech tree ashes to dye their hair blonde, which was considered fashionable. Blonde hair was considered exotic and was particularly prized after contact with Germanic tribes increased. This beauty trend also had political implications, as it was sometimes seen as a way for Roman women to distinguish themselves from darker-haired conquered peoples. The desire for blonde hair in ancient Rome is an early example of how beauty standards were influenced by cultural exchange and conquest.

The Roman army built ingenious Roman roads

The Romans built over 80,000 kilometers of Roman roads, many of which still exist today. The saying “All roads lead to Rome” stems from this extensive road network. These roads were crucial for the expansion and maintenance of the Roman Empire, allowing for rapid movement of troops, goods, and information. Even today, many modern European highways follow the routes of ancient Roman roads, testament to the foresight and skill of Roman engineers.

Rome’s population fluctuated over centuries

Rome’s population has fluctuated dramatically over time. In the 2nd century CE, it was the world’s largest city, with over a million inhabitants. By the Middle Ages, it had shrunk to just 20,000, becoming a small town. The city’s peak population in ancient times was supported by sophisticated infrastructure and grain imports from Egypt. The decline began with the fall of the Western Roman Empire, exacerbated by wars, plagues, and the shift of power to Constantinople. Rome’s population didn’t reach a million again until the 1930s.

The Mouth of Truth lives here

The Bocca della Verità, or Mouth of Truth, is a marble mask that, according to legend, would bite off the hand of anyone who told a lie while placing their hand in its mouth. Located in the portico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, this ancient Roman sculpture, likely a first-century drain cover, has become one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions. The legend, which probably originated in the Middle Ages, reflects the enduring human fascination with truth-telling devices and oracles.

Rome’s answer to toilet paper

Ancient Romans used a sponge on a stick soaked in vinegar or salt water as an alternative to toilet paper. While seemingly crude by modern standards, this is one of the more fun facts about Rome that demonstrates the hygiene practice used by the Romans, their concern for cleanliness and innovative problem-solving. The sponge sticks, called “xylospongium” or “tersorium,” were often shared in public latrines, which were common social spaces in ancient Rome. Vinegar or salt water served as a basic form of disinfectant.

Gladiator blood was used as medicine

In ancient Rome, gladiator blood was believed to have medicinal properties and was sometimes drunk by spectators. Roman gladiators were both feared and revered in ancient Roman society. The belief in the healing power of gladiator blood stemmed from the idea that it contained the gladiator’s strength and courage. Epilepsy, in particular, was thought to be treatable with gladiator blood.

Rome’s central heating system was revolutionary

The ancient Romans invented an early form of central heating called a hypocaust, which circulated hot air under the floors of buildings. The hypocaust consisted of a raised floor supported by pillars, creating a space for hot air from a furnace to circulate. This invention allowed Romans to maintain comfortable temperatures even in cold climates and influenced heating technology for centuries.

The Tyrrhenian Sea was Rome’s maritime connection

Although not directly on the coast, Rome is connected to the Tyrrhenian Sea via the Tiber River, which played a crucial role in the city’s trade and naval power, extending to Northern Africa. The port of Ostia, at the mouth of the Tiber, served as Rome’s gateway to the sea, handling massive quantities of grain from Egypt and other goods from around the empire. This maritime trade route was essential for feeding Rome’s large population and fueling its economy.

Rome was knows as Caput Mundi

Rome was often referred to as Caput Mundi, a Latin phrase meaning “Capital of the World,” reflecting its importance in the ancient world. The Latin word “Roma” itself is believed to have Etruscan origins. The concept of Rome as Caput Mundi persisted long after the fall of the Western Roman Empire, influencing medieval and Renaissance thought. It contributed to Rome’s enduring prestige and its later role as the center of the Catholic Church.

The fascinating fall and rise of Rome

After the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE, Rome’s population declined dramatically. It wasn’t until the 19th century that the city began to grow significantly again. This long period of decline and rebirth profoundly shaped Rome’s urban landscape and cultural identity. The Renaissance and Baroque periods brought new artistic and architectural splendour, but it was only after Rome became the capital of unified Italy in 1870 that it truly began to regain its status as a major European city.

Rome has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The historic center of Rome, Vatican City and the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls are all designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Rome’s historic centre has more than 25,000 points of environmental and archaeological interest, and this UNESCO recognition underscores its unparalleled historical and cultural significance. The entire historic center, covering 1,430 hectares, is considered the largest archaeological site in the world.

Emperor Nero’s Golden House

Emperor Nero built a massive palace called the Domus Aurea (Golden House) that covered much of Rome. It was later buried and built over by subsequent emperors. This opulent palace, constructed after the Great Fire of 64 CE, was a testament to Nero’s extravagance and megalomania. It reportedly included a 30-metre-high statue of Nero, vast gardens, an artificial lake, and rooms decorated with gold leaf and precious stones. After Nero’s death, subsequent emperors sought to erase his legacy by filling in and building over the palace.

Rome’s birthday is a celebration

Rome celebrates its birthday on April 21st, the legendary date of its founding by Romulus in 753 BCE. This makes Rome over 2,700 years old, a truly long time in human history. The celebration, known as “Natale di Roma” (Birth of Rome), is a source of pride for Romans and a major cultural event. It typically includes historical reenactments, parades, fireworks and concerts.

The Eastern Roman Empire continued Rome’s legacy

After the fall of Rome in 476 CE, the Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire, continued for nearly a thousand years until 1453. The Byzantine Empire preserved and transmitted Greek and Roman knowledge, played a crucial role in the development of Christianity, and acted as a buffer between Europe and the Islamic world. Its capital, Constantinople (modern Istanbul), was the largest and wealthiest city in Europe for much of the Middle Ages.

Rome’s charity efforts help less fortunte

Today, Rome is home to numerous Catholic charities that provide aid to needy families both within the city and around the world. This tradition of charity has deep roots in Rome’s history as the center of the Catholic Church. Organizations like Caritas Roma and the Community of Sant’Egidio offer various services, from food banks and homeless shelters to healthcare and education programs.

Rome ia a living museum

With its blend of ancient ruins, Renaissance palaces, and modern architecture, Rome is often described as a living museum, showcasing over 2,500 years of history. This unique characteristic sets Rome apart from other major cities. Walking through Rome, one can traverse centuries in a matter of steps, from ancient Roman forums to medieval churches, Renaissance piazzas, and Baroque fountains, all the way to modern construction.

Conclusion

From its mythical founding as the first city of the Roman world to its status as a modern capital city of Italy, Rome has been at the center of Western civilization for millennia. Its rich history, architectural wonders and cultural significance continue to make it one of the most visited cities in the world.

Rome’s influence extends far beyond its geographical boundaries. The legacy of Roman people and their civilization can be seen in legal systems, languages and cultures around the world today. From the Roman roads that still form the basis of many modern highways to the enduring impact of Roman art and architecture, the city’s influence is truly global.

These seemingly fun and interesting facts about Rome are just the tip of the iceberg. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, Rome always has something new to discover. So, as you plan your next trip or simply daydream about future travels, remember that Rome awaits, ready to surprise, delight, and inspire you with its timeless beauty and endless stories. After all, as the saying goes, “Roma, non basta una vita” – one lifetime is not enough to see all of Rome.