Rome is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the world due to its rich history and culture. The city might seem quite expensive at first, but it has many things to do or see for free. A little research and planning, and you’ll be amazed that a trip to Rome can cost you almost nothing. Here are six free things to do and see while on a trip to Rome.
Take a Trip to Foro Romano
Foro was the center of power in ancient Roman times. There you can walk among the ruins of a powerful empire, which was once the epicenter of commercial, governmental and religious activities in all of Europe. The magnitude of these ruins can truly be felt when you come across the remains of temples and judicial structures. Visiting the forum has always been free.
Tell the Truth at La Bocca Della Verita
Popularized by Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn in the movie Roman Holiday, la Bocca Della Verita is a grotesque-looking sculpture on the face of the portico of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. Translated as the mouth of truth, in ancient times the sculpture was believed in to bite off the hand of any person who touched it and told a lie. In other words, la Bocca may be the world’s oldest lie detector.
Enjoy a Day at Park Gianicolo
This park is situated on splendid Janiculum Hills and is the perfect pleasure spot for families, friends or a couple of lovebirds to enjoy a scenic view of Rome. One of the park’s most popular attractions is a puppet show, which is free and open to anyone. The show’s style is based on centuries-old theater traditions of Europe.
Visit the Roman Pyramid
The Pyramid of Cestius is on of the best-preserved ancient buildings in the city. Built between 18-12 BC, the pyramid stands 100 Roman feet tall, or about 29.6 meters. It houses the tomb of Caius Cestius and is a ‘must do’ for any history junkie visiting Rome.
Explore Largo di Torre Argentina
When you visit the Largo di Torre Argentina square, you find yourself surrounded by four ancient and impressive Republican Roman temples. Also a must see in the square is what remains of Pompey’s Theatre, where Julius Ceasar was killed. Visitors today can stand – free of charge – in the very spot in the square the famed Ceasar was said to have met his end.
Partake of the Pantheon
The Pantheon, one of Rome’s most popular attractions, was initially a pagan temple. It was later converted into a church in 608 AD, to save the building from being destroyed. Despite having been constructed almost two thousand years ago, the Pantheon still boasts the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.
To enjoy such a large number of hot and happening attractions in Rome you don’t need dole out a ton of cash. With the tips above, you can see some of the city’s most incredible ancient structures and cultural cornerstones and never spend a dime.