One of the greatest empires in the history of human kind has long been gone. However its cultural achievements are present to this day. As for the actual Roman buildings, there are a few sites, where one can travel in time and explore the Roman history in real time.
10. Fanad Peninsula, County Donegal, Ireland
Fanad juts out into the Atlantic Ocean and offers some amazing landscapes. It also has Blue Flag beach in Ballymastocker Bay, that is often listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by the magazines. Even the well preserved ruins of The Great Roman Wall stretches in Fanad.
Why go there? Sandy beaches attract swimmers, as well as surfers. And even more for the action loving travelers: golfers love Portsalon Golf Club, which is situated in the picturesque fields. Fanad Lighthouse and the Great Arch are among the most popular sites on the peninsula. And even Aurora can be spotted in this northern part of Ireland!
Photo by Gary McParland
Photo by Paul Byrne
Photo by Dominic Kummer
9. Elba, Italy
The largest and most famous island in the Tuscan Archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Elba is the location where Napoleon was exiled in the 19th century. The pristine beaches are famous for especially bright, sparkling water and sandy stripes. Meanwhile villages, perched on the cliffs, provide an authentic Italian experience.
Why go there? Villa Romana delle Grotte is one of the oldest Roman buildings here. In addition numerous other cultural sites welcome curious guests as well, including Napoleon Villa, bastions of the Medici and fortress Volterrayo.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
8. The Romantic Road, Bavaria, Germany
A 261-mile long way provides one of the most scenic rides in the country. It allegedly is based on the ruins of the ancient Roman road. Today it passes the incredible Bavarian nature as well as number of historic little towns.
Why go there? The path passes Medieval towns of Würzburg, Augsburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, Nördlingen and more. It end at the magnificent Neuschwanstein Castle.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
7. Sorrento, Campania, Italy
The town was established before the Roman Times. Because of the pleasant weather, it was a favorite holiday destination by Roman Emperors Claudius and Tiberius! Today besides all the natural wonders, visitors can learn about Italian culture and history in the museums, churches, cathedrals, villas and even explore the Roman ruins at the Punta del Capo.
Why go there? A wonderful coastal town, which provides great resorts, beaches, views as well as cultural attractions and historic architecture.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
6. Hvar Island
It is regarded a jewel of the historically and culturally significant Dalmatian islands. Since the antiquity Hvar has been an important port for the Greeks, Romans and Byzantines. Versatile history is present in numerous architectural monuments, that attract not only curious tourists, but scientists, historians and archeologists as well.
Why go there? The island also features rich nature, great beaches and fresh air, since it is further from the polluted civilization.
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Photo by Unknown
Photo by Europe Trotter
5. Jerash, Jordan
The ruins of the ancient city Decapolis are the best preserved Roman ruins in the region, which was inhabited in the Bronze Age already. The hippodrome, temples, arches, theaters and other architectural will take you back in time. It is the second most popular site after the desert jewel – Petra.
Why go there? The tours are supplemented with the performances of the Roman Army and Chariot Experience, that take place at the hippodrome twice daily. Three week summer festival includes theater, dance and music performances. Jerash Festival is even visited by the royal family of Jordan.
Photo by Juan Ramón Jiménez
Photo by Pepe Alcaide
Photo by Rinske Koster
4. Colosseum, Rome, Italy
Discover the enormous Ancient Rome arena, where gladiators’ fights were held. The building had 50 000 seats, that could fill up in just 10 minutes. The historic monument stands at the heart of modern Rome and attracts thousands of tourists every year.
Why go there? Discover the colossal spirit of Ancient Rome. One of the most famous and well preserved monuments of the Romans.
Photo by Roland B
Photo by Ravi S R
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3. Pompeii, Italy
The most famous Roman site today has been a witness to a horrific natural disaster. In AD 79 Mount Vesuvius in the backdrop of Pompeii has erupted, burying the town under a thick layer of hot ashes. The town was discovered in 1599 and has become a tourist destination and a research spot ever since.
Why go there? It is a rare and extraordinary opportunity to explore the ancient Roman city.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
2. The Roman Forum, Rome, Italy
In the heart of the Eternal City of Rome one can find the ruins of once the most important and glorious state – the Roman Empire. The wreckage site used to serve as the government buildings. Here citizens gathered to celebrate victories, for elections, trials, commercial affairs and even gladiator matches. The oldest buildings in the Forum date back to the 8th century BC.
Why go there? Today an impressive number of visitors of around 4,5 millions explore the Forum every year. One of those unforgettable places to see at least once in a lifetime.
Photo by Aleksandar Gospić
Photo by Christopher Cove
Photo by Todd Landry
1. The Pantheon, Rome, Italy
Built between 27 BC and 14 AD, the building is one of the finest architectural wonders that defines the Eternal City of Rome. The name refers to „all the gods“ – the concept characteristic to that time. Besides the historic value the Pantheon is famous for its architecture, that depicts brilliance of the Roman technique. Today the site is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rome.
Why go there? Discover the spirit of antiquity, of the glorious Roman Empire. Admire the architecture and explore the history of the era.
Photo by Valerio Benincasa
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