AdminA gorgeous nation filled with rich culture and history, Italy is one of the most popular vacation destinations for visitors from around the world. However, there’s so much to do and see that it can be overwhelming to plan a trip. We’ve reviewed ten “must-see” historical landmarks in Italy to make planning your vacation easier.
Top 10 Historical Landmarks to Check Out on Your Vacation to Italy
1. The Colosseum, Rome
The Roman Colosseum was built to be the largest ancient amphitheatre. With the ability to accommodate as many as 50,000 spectators, its construction was a monumental undertaking. Thousands of enslaved people worked for over eight years to complete the project. Once completed, people would travel from near and far to watch gladiator games, battles, and animal hunts. Not only is the history extraordinarily fascinating, but it’s also amazing that the stadium still stands.
2. Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa
Travelers have long been fascinated by the Tower of Pisa. Construction for this landmark began in 1173 CE and was not completed until 1372 CE – but the tower started leaning long before it was ever finished. Five short years into construction, one side of the building began to sink! Although much effort was made to correct the tilt, it leaned 5.5 degrees until the end of the 1990s. At that time, engineers worked to reduce the tilt to 4 degrees. This means the tower leans about 13.5 feet from where it would be if it were straight. Because this work was done, visitors can not only see the tower from the outside but can also pay to go inside for a tour.
3. Paestum, Salerno
If you enjoy ghost towns, you’ll be deeply fascinated by the abandoned city of Paestum. The city was initially named Poseidonia, after the Greek sea god, but after falling under Roman control, it was renamed. The city was frequently plagued with malaria outbreaks and raids. Consequently, the city’s inhabitants abandoned their homes. Today, the city walls and three of the most well-preserved ancient Greek temples are all that remain of this once-grand city.
4. St Mark’s Basilica, Venice
This Byzantine cathedral is the crown jewel of Venice. Located in St. Mark’s square, this incredible architectural feat cannot be missed. It is sometimes referred to as the “Church of Gold” because of its ornate ceilings of golden mosaics and spectacular domes. You’ll get the best view of the entire scene from the main church alter, where the sarcophagus of St. Mark is kept.
5. Herculaneum, Ercolano, Campania
Pompeii may get all the attention, but Herculaneum was also lost beneath a sea of ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 CE. In fact, Herculaneum is much better preserved than Pompeii. This is because it was hit by the volcano first, meaning that fewer people had the chance to evacuate to safety. Consequently, a higher number of bodies have been preserved in this city for centuries. In addition, the town’s temple sites, bathhouses, taverns, and other structures remain here. Even villa houses overlooking the sea remain untouched, including perfectly preserved beds.
6. Duomo d Milano, Milan
This spectacular, gothic cathedral is the largest of its kind. It’s no wonder, then, that the Duomo di Milano is the most frequently visited and photographed place in Milan. Construction started on the cathedral in 1386 CE, and it took five centuries to be completed. Countless artists and sculptures were involved with the project, and because it was crafted over such a long period of time, it reflects both Gothic and Romanesque styles. For the best views and experience, take the time to walk along the roof terrace, where you can take in the beautiful spires while relishing in views of the city.
7. Sassi of Matera, Matera
There is no place on Earth that can be compared to Matera. If you’re going to Italy it’s one of the most interesting places to visit. The Sassi are a complex series of intricate cave dwellings. This area of the Basilicata region of Italy is believed to be among the oldest, continuously populated areas of the world. The region is absolutely stunning, lush, and green, and the cave dwellings add to a sense of wonder and mystery. What’s genuinely delightful is that the structures you see from the outside are only facades. Over the centuries, settlers have carved deep into the limestone, forming underground dwellings and churches!
8. The Vatican Museums, Vatican City
Home to some of the most valuable and impressive historical artifacts in the world, the Vatican Museums draw visitors from all faiths and walks of life. Although this site was originally designated for papal use and palaces, they now serve as galleries to the public. However, the most cherished part of the Vatican Museums is the Sistine Chapel. Nothing can prepare you for the humbling sense of awe that falls upon you as you gaze at Michelangelo’s magnificent masterpiece created in the early 1500s.
9. Trevi Fountain, Rome
La Fontana di Trevi is a historical landmark that was designed and constructed in 1732 CE by Nicola Salvi. It is revered as the most beautiful and famous fountain in the world. At nearly 30 meters high, this fountain is an impressive sight to behold. It features Neptune, the god of the sea, as he is being pulled into the water by two winged horses – one calm and the other boisterous. The work symbolizes the changing tides. To the left and right of Neptune are two statues representing abundance and health, respectively. This fountain has been featured in many films and captures the imagination of millions of tourists each year.
10. The Arena, Verona
The Arena, which is the Roman amphitheatre, was constructed at the end of the first century BCE. Its purpose was to host gladiator tournaments to entertain the masses. Impressively, the landmark is so perfectly preserved that it is used for concerts and opera performances to this day. The acoustics are so spot-on that musicians or singers do not need amplification. It’s absolutely remarkable to stand in the presence of this historical monument and wonder, could the builders from millennia gone by have known that their work would continue to please guests thousands of years later?
Our list of historical landmarks in Italy is by no means comprehensive, but it highlights some of the most important places to visit. Enjoy your travels!
