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The foundation of Rome was laid about 2,700 years ago. As the center of the Roman Empire, it has been an important part of the European history in centuries. Today it is the center of the Catholic Church. So wherever you go, you will see remains of the ancient Rome. The impressive amphitheatre Coliseum is one of the most interesting relics of the ancient Rome. It was originally build to house 55,000 spectators, who were entertained with fights against wild animals and gladiator fights. Emperor Vespasian ordered the building of the Coliseum in 72 AD. Then there were a lot of other coliseums around the Roman Empire; from El Djem in North Africa to Arles and Nimes in France. Since there has been missing maintenance, destructions and even theft; but the Coliseum is still a must see sight. While the Coliseum was the center of the Roman Empire, the St. Peter's Basilica is the center of the Catholic religious community. And then it is also the centre of the smallest country in the world: the Vatican State. The construction of the St. Peter's Basilica took more than hundred years, and many famous architects have been involved. Even though there are many interesting sights inside the cathedral, the most impressive of the all is the dome drawn by Michelangelo. From the top you have an amazing view of the Vatican State. Another must see sight in the Vatican State is the main chapel of the Vatican Palace called the Sistine Chapel, where the ornamentation was made by Michelangelo. The amazing fresco Judgment Day is seen as his masterpiece from his mature years. The work was started in 1535 and finished in 1541. Since the beginning of the time Rome has been the center of international trade. Material from the remotest places in the Roman Empire was processed by the best craftsmen into masterpieces. Today you can still find fine handicraft in Rome. The best designs from the famous, Italian designers are found in Palazzo delle Esposizioni. And the large, Italian fashion houses like Gucci, Prada and Giorgio Armani are around the Spanish Steps. If you like markets Rome are a nice city to visit. Old books can be bought at Mercato delle Stampe, while Campo deFior is the place for food. Everything between can be bought at Porta Portese. Morten Elm is writing about city breaks in Rome on Miniferie in Rom. Read more about the sights in Shopping Rom.
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Rome, Coliseum, St. Peter's Basilica, St. Peter's Cathedral, Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo, Vatican State, sights, shopping, markets, fashion, Roman Empire,
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