Rome is traditionally thought to have been founded by the mythical twins Romulus and Remus, who were abandoned as infants in the Tiber River and raised by a mother wolf before being found by a shepherd who raised them as his own sons. Situated on the River Tiber, between the Apennine Mountains and the Tyrrhenian Sea, the “Eternal City” was once the administrative center of the mighty Roman Empire, governing a vast region that stretched all the way from Britain to Mesopotamia. Today it remains the seat of the Italian government and home to numerous ministerial offices.
For two weeks in August, many of Rome’s inhabitants shut up shop (literally) and go on their own vacations; many stores and other amenities will be closed during this time. The temperature in the city centre at this time of year is not particularly pleasant. If you do travel to Rome at this time, be prepared to see Chiuso per ferie (Closed for holidays) signs on many establishments. Anyhow even in these weeks the city is very beautiful and if you look for a less overcrowded vacation in Rome this is not a bad time.
It’s hard to say what you’ll find most breathtaking about the Eternal City - the arrogant opulence of the Vatican, the timelessness of the Forum, the top speed of a Fiat Bambino, the gory resonance of the Colosseum, trying to cross a major intersection, or the bill for your caffe latte.
Starting from 1920, Rome was shaken by the terrible rise to power of Fascism that culminated in the pact made between the Italian Government and Nazi Germany. After Italy was liberated by the Allies during the Second World War, a referendum held on June 2nd 1946 sanctioned the end of the monarchy and the beginning of the Republic.
Be certain not to miss The Eternal City’s Trevi Fountain (remember Anita Ekberg in the classic scene in La Dolce Vita), the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Piazza del Popolo, as well as some of the Roman heritage sights, such as the Pantheon, the Colosseum and the Forum Romanum. Be sure to visit a few of her world-famous churches, such as Il Gesu, S. Giovanni in Laterano and Sta. Maria Maggiore; and the Vatican, which features the incredibly huge St. Peter’s Basilica and the unrivaled Vatican Museums.
Taxis are the most expensive way to get around Rome, but when weighed against convenience and speed, are often worth it. Roman taxis within the city walls run on meters, and you should always make sure the driver starts the meter. Taxis will typically only pick you up at a taxi stand, which you will find at all but the smallest piazzas, as well as at the main train station. Flagging down a taxi (like in London) is possible, but quite rare as the taxi drivers prefer to use the stands.
If you want to work during the tourist season, ask around at the hostels, hotels and restaurants with that touristy feel. It is quite easy to get a job, and it is a lot of fun even if it does not usually pay well. There are differing views on how easy it is to get a job out here. There is high unemployment and most jobs seem to go on a family - friends - other Romans - other Italians.
English is widely spoken in Rome, especially by persons that work in the touristic areas. But you’ll be able to speak English with common people very often, especially with younger persons aged between 14 and 35. English is studied by Italian students since lower schools and they often can speak it: if you meet someone who’s not skilled, he’ll however understand basic questions and will surely try to help you. Older citizens don’t know English very well, some of them know little French or German but not so much.
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