Day 12 – Rome: Walking Through Time in the Eternal City (09.7.1995 recollection)

Today was a true highlight of the tour — a full day to explore the majestic and awe-inspiring city of Rome, once the capital of the Roman Empire and still a global center of history, culture, and art.

Our guided panoramic tour began in Piazza Venezia, where the grand Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, also known as the "Wedding Cake", dominates the square. Nearby stood the Altar of the Fatherland, with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier — a moving tribute to Italy's fallen heroes.

From there, we caught a glimpse of the ancient Roman Forum, once the bustling heart of Roman public life, and then stood in awe before the mighty Colosseum, where gladiators once battled for glory before thousands of spectators.

We passed by the Circus Maximus, the vast stadium where chariot races thrilled ancient Romans, before ascending to the Gianiculum Hill (Janiculum) — one of Rome’s highest points. From here, we enjoyed a breathtaking panoramic view of Rome, its rooftops, domes, Pantheon, and historic landmarks bathed in golden sunlight.

The rest of the day was open for optional excursions, offering deeper exploration for those interested — including a dinner outing with live entertainment, or a visit to Tivoli and the scenic Roman Hills, where Roman nobility once escaped the city heat.

Rome dazzled us with its grandeur and timelessness — a city where ancient ruins stand side by side with elegant piazzas, where every stone seems steeped in history.

Special thanks The Tour Guy. 

How to See Rome in A Day which beautifully complements this blog post. The visuals and storytelling truly bring the charm of the Eternal City Rome to life. 👉 Visit YouTube channel here to explore more of his travel adventures!