Rome: The Eternal City of Life for the Weary Soul

Friends, wanderers and travelers, lend me thy ears! This is the Eternal City, full of life, love and history. This is Rome, Italy. And no other place in the world will awaken one’s passion for life and the majestic wonders of the world other than Rome.

Twins Romulus and Remus, who were sons of the god of war Mars and were raised by a she-wolf, was in a struggle as to who would build and govern an empire. After killing his twin brother Remus, Romulus proceeded to establish and build Rome. But of course, contrary to the mythical belief, Etruscan Kings ruled Rome up to 512 BC. Then it was made into a republic. With the history of glorious emperors, Julius Caesar, Trajan, Hadrian and the unforgettable Nero, the glorious history of Rome lives beyond history books. With its power and formidable armies, Rome was one of the greatest empires of all time. The greatest poets, historians and philosophers are born in this country, further claiming its hold and contribution to the world.

But history and civilization has also molded Rome to become the focal point of religion, the Roman Catholicism. With its religious fervor, the Vatican, the seat of religious and political power of devout Catholics all over the world, oversees the world’s religious affairs as well as its call for peace amidst crises and conflict right in the center of Rome. Every year, during Holy Week, the Catholics manifest their faith as thousands journey to Rome as they make their pilgrimage every year to the numerous basilicas, to celebrate the life and death of the Lord Jesus Christ. During Good Fridays, a Procession of the Cross is held following the route from the Colosseum to the Capitoline Hill. Culminating on the Easter Sunday, the Pope addresses the thousands of devotees at the Vatican.

As it is the Eternal City, the youth and those who are looking for fun and excitement will not be disappointed. The Testacio is the venue for clubbing and partying till dawn. From concerts and parties these can all be found here. Nostalgic and cool jazz music can be also found at the Villa Celimontana. Known as the Estate Romana or Roman Summer, magic and revelry is woven all through the nights from June to September. Coffee-lovers and art enthusiasts will have a blast in September as Rome is on caffeine-high in celebration of the Notte Bianca or White Night. It is when museums, galleries and shops are open from early evening to the next day.