Italy is considered to be one of the birthplaces of several concepts, cultural understandings, and facts that we are aware of today. Its major cities have played a large part in moving historical events forward that had a significant impact on the world. Many of them play host to ruins that date as far back as the 8th millennium BC. No trip to Italy can be complete without a visit to these historical places:
- Saint Mark’s Basilica
Founded in the 9th century, this structure plays host to the tomb of St Mark and it has also been used as the private chapel of the Doge for close to a century. After that it became the official cathedral of Venice in 1807. The original Basilica burned up in a fire in 932 but it was re-built with additional domes and marble exteriors.
Saint Mark’s Basilica is famous not only for its historical significance but also its intricate design. It is made of about 8000 square meters of mosaics and one of its domes is the Cupola of the Prophets where you can see an altarpiece that is made of gold and decorated with over 2000 gemstones. For the best view, go to the main altar in the church where the sarcophagus of the saint is kept.
- Herculaneum
Besides Pompeii, Herculaneum was also one of the cities in Italy that was buried under ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. It is significant to history buffs because it is much better preserved than the ruins of Pompeii even though it is not as large as the infamous city. Herculaneum was actually hit before Pompeii, so its residents had no warning before the lava came raining down on them. There are several perfectly preserved bodies that have been in the city for centuries.
Herculaneum is a world heritage site, so it gets dozens of visitors who want to see its baths, houses, taverns, and temples. Some of its most opulent villas have been reduced to small details such as perfectly preserved beds.
If you are a history buff and if you want more details about its past as well as places to shop, be sure to head online before you go.
- Area Sacra di Largo Argentina
These are the oldest temples ever found in Rome, and they were discovered between 1926 and 1930 during construction. The area comprises of 4 temples that were built around the 3rd century BC and which are located right by the site where Julius Caesar was murdered.
While no one knows who those temples were made for, no one can deny their historical significance. Since no written records exist, they have been named Temple A, B, C and D. These days, the ruins are frequented by dozens of cats which are beloved by tourists and residents alike.
- The Roman Colosseum
One of the greatest historical marvels in Roma, the Colosseum is the largest existing amphitheater in the world. The landmark is one of the most visited sites in Rome so you should expect a long line when you get there. Or you can sign up for a guided tour and skip it altogether.
Made of solid concrete and stone, the Colosseum used to seat about 50,000 spectators who came to watch the gladiators and animals fight in the arena. The structure was completed during the rule of Titus.
- The Piazza Navona
The Pizza Navona is a vibrant hub of commercial and artistic activity in Rome that is known for its spectacular Baroque architecture as well as its street artists, ornate fountains and square which attracts visitors from across the globe. The main attraction is the massive and elaborate fountain in the middle which represents the major rivers.
The fountain was built by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, a famous Baroque sculptor and the plaza itself was built during the 5th century on top of an arena which played host to competitions.
- Florence Cathedral
The Florence Cathedral is considered to be the fourth largest in the world, and a must visit for history buffs. The gothic church was built during the 13th century and was built on top of an old church. In fact, you can still see the ruins of the church to this day when you visit the cathedral. The iconic dome was added 200 years later and only then was the cathedral deemed complete.
The architects who worked on the massive cathedral have been immortalized with statues that can be seen outside. In the entrance hall of the church, you can see the 1443 clock which tells time according to 24 hour days. In other words, the day always ends at sunset according to the clock.
This is a monumental historical site in Rome since it contains the ruins of the port town that used to serve as the gateway to the city itself. The Ostia Antica is just half an hour away from central Rome if you take the train.
As a history buff you’re in for a real treat. The ruins of the town include the Baths of Neptune, a theatre, the remains of a military camp and even temples to deities. The synagogue is actually the oldest one you can find in Europe and you can also visit a small museum on site where you can purchase artifacts and more information on the history behind the famous site.
This is a gothic structure that is located in St. Mark’s Square and has been the residence of each leader or Dodge of the Venetian Republic till its demise in 1797. You can either opt for an independent tour by using an audio aid or book a secret tour which may include a visit to the prison cell where Giacomo Casanova was kept.
This also includes the Bridge of Sighs and the apartments of the Doge himself but the sites you get to visit and explore will depend on the tour you sign up for.
Italy is a history buff’s paradise for those who know where to look and also casual travelers who want an immersive traveling experience.
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