ITALY

RENAISSANCE COMES ALIVE IN THE bustling city of Rome, the capital of Italy. The ancient city has a along and rich history that dates back to the times of gladiators and Roman emperors that ruled the city with an iron fist. The intelligent rule of the Roman emperors brought about some of the most majestic architecture the world has ever seen and it is in Rome where we start our adventure.

Take a walk through the city with a knowledgeable local guide provided by Trafalgar who will point out landmark sights like the famous Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Piazza Navona. As tradition goes, walk your way to the edge of the Trevi Fountain to throw coins into the pool. Legend has it that travellers to Rome should throw in three coins. The first will “guarantee” a return to Rome in the future, the second is to ensure a new romance and the third will bring about marriage.

Even if not superstitious, the Trevi Fountain is a beautiful example of some of the great ancient Roman architecture that are still standing in Italy. Another famous architectural feat by the Romans is the Pantheon, a former Roman temple that is now a church. Walk inside and admire the dome ceiling, which was built in one piece with a large hole in the middle to allow natural sunlight to illuminate the place during the day. The dome of the Pantheon is said to be an architectural marvel of its time and even today, as it is perfectly balanced and has never caved or shifted in the slightest since it was completed in 126 AD. It has only been lightly restored through the years, meaning much of the original decorations of the structure are still visible.