Before the Colosseum, the Theater of Marcellus was Ancient Rome’s amphitheater. Built by Julius Caesar in 13 BC, it only had 60 years in the sun before the Colosseum eclipsed it. See the mediaeval and Renaissance modifications on the top – it was later used as a fortress/palace by Rome’s warring, ruling families.

Once this gate, named after Emperor Augustus’ sister, accommodated two Ancient Roman Temples and a library. After the fall of Rome, it was used as fish market until the 20th century.

The once Jewish Ghetto is now Rome’s vibrant Jewish Quarter. Roman Jews were forcibly ghettoized here for 300 years. Now, this vibrant neighborhood has a unique Roman-Jewish character.

Isola Tiberina is Rome’s only island. A hospital has been on the island since Ancient times; the island was first devoted to Asclepius, the Greek God of healing.

On the West Bank of the Tiber lies Trastevere, an Ancient borough of Rome. Trastevere has always done things differently; its been a home to travelers and outcasts since ancient times. Admire its cobbled streets, orange townhouses and rebellious atmosphere.

Santa Maria was one of Rome’s oldest churches, built shortly after the Empire’s conversion to Christianity in the 340s AD. Step inside and admire the remarkable 11th century gold-leaf mosaics adorning the apse; when the sun catches them, they’re a sight to behold.