Old City Center
The old city center is right near the Colosseum, so you can plan to see both in a single day. The Palatine — the birthplace of Rome, according to mythology — looks down over the remains of the Roman Forum.
Question
Was there really a cave at Palatine? Apparently, yes. Archaeologists reported in early 2007 that they had found the legendary place while trying to restore the home of Augustus, the first Roman emperor. There has been no documentation yet on whether anyone named Romulus or Remus actually existed there.
The Palatine
Legend says that Palatine Hill is where city founders Romulus and Remus were found, inside a cave. From as early as 510 B.C., many wealthy Romans made their homes here, which is why you can tour the remains of palaces and temples today. The views from this area are spectacular, and you can access many spots where there are winding paths and gardens. There's also an on-site museum full of artifacts and artworks from the Palatine itself.
Essential
Since the Pantheon continues to serve as a working Catholic church, be sure to dress appropriately even if you only want to wander through as a tourist. Sleeveless and backless shirts are a no-no, and if you are wearing shorts, they should come down to cover your knees. Pants or long skirts are a better option.
Roman Forum
The Forum was the area around which civilization in Rome evolved. This is where government leaders met, criers detailed the day's news to the people, and temples were built for worship. Think of a modern-day business and civic district — one where the people wore flowing robes to the taverns after a long day's work. Much of the Forum has been destroyed, but with a map in hand, you can visualize what used to be there as you make your way around.
The Pantheon
To the northwest of the Roman Forum is the Pantheon, often cited as the best-preserved building from the times of Ancient Rome. It was built as a temple to all the gods of that time and has been continuously used ever since, most recently as a Catholic church since the seventh century.
Mass is still celebrated here, if you want to become a part of the building's history instead of just touring around it. The interior is spectacular, and its construction is often cited as the Romans' most important architectural achievement. The concrete dome weighs about 5,000 tons and is so large that it may have been designed to symbolize the heavens.
