Historic Rome

View down Via dei Condotti from the Spanish Steps

Since we’re at the St Regis Grand we started at the nearest Roman Attractions by walking by and investigating the ruins of the Baths of Diocletion. He was Roman emperor from 284 to 305. Born to a family of low status in the Roman province of Dalmatia, Diocletian rose through the ranks of the military to become cavalry commander and then Emperor.

Baths of Diocletion

The Baths of Diocletian (Thermae Diocletiani) in Rome were the grandest of the public baths, or thermae built by successive emperors. Diocletians’s Baths, dedicated in 306, were the largest and most sumptuous of the imperial baths. The baths were built between the years 298 and 306.

The Spanish Steps

Next was the Spanish Steps. Located in the heart of Rome, this vibrant and elegant square is surrounded by 18th-century buildings augmented by the colorful flowers that adorn the Spanish Steps. The elegant steps by Francesco de Sanctis (1723-1726) consist of twelve flights of varying width, which descend to the scenic Franciscan Church of Trinita dei Monti. Very interesting.

The Pantheon

Then there's the Pantheon. The Pantheon dome remains the single largest, unreinforced concrete dome in the entire world. At about 142 feet in diameter, the Pantheon’s dome is bigger even than the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. Built by Emperor Hadrian in 125 AD, it is the only ancient building in Rome to have been in continual use since its completion.

The Trevi Fountain

Last stop for the day was the Trevi Fountain. The Trevi Fountain is situated at the end of the Aqua Virgo, an aqueduct constructed in 19 BC by Agrippa, the son-in-law of Emperor Augustus. The Trevi Fountain we see was only inaugurated in 1762. Tradition has it that you will return to Rome if you throw a coin into the fountain's water basin over your shoulder. 

Baths of Diocletion

That was a good day in Rome and tomorrow we have quite a bit more to see. Rome is a great place and even better, we’re going back to the St Regis Grand for the night. Luxurious. 

Everything in Rome is highly recommended!

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