Experience the Arts in the Magnificent City of Rome

I have to admit: I’m something of a philistine when it comes to the arts, but when traveling Europe, no matter how you feel about art, you’d be missing out if you didn’t experience at least some of it. As I wrote about a few months ago, Rome surpassed my expectations. I didn’t get a chance to see a ton of art in Rome, but what I did see was impressive. This guest post from Sandra highlights some of the best art and culture to be found in Italy’s capital city.

Sculpture at the Castel Sant’Angelo (photo credit: me!)

If you want to immerse yourself in a hub of music and arts, Rome is most definitely the city that will satisfy your every craving. As a place that is widely known for its long-standing love affair with the arts, lovers of music, fine painting and sculptures have flocked to the city to view its extensive offerings. If you are planning a cultural trip to Rome, whether by yourself, as a couple, or part of a group, here are the best things to do in Rome that will ensure that you experience all aspects of the arts that this spectacular capital has to offer.

Historical  art 

Some examples of the finest art known to man reside in the great city of Rome. The Sistine Chapel, painstakingly painted by Michelangelo, is such an example. In the Chapel, you can experience the breath-taking sight that is ‘The Last Judgment’, depicting the final judgment by God of all humankind. A visit to the Borghese Gallery should also be planned, as it is home to beautiful paintings that have been done by many famous artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael and Domenichino. After a walk around the gallery, taking in the splendid examples of art, there is an adjoining garden, which is the perfect place to sit down and take in everything that you’ve just seen.

The Sistine Chapel. I may be the only tourist in history to actually obey their “no photos” rule, so photo credit)

Contemporary art 

While renowned for its historical art, Rome presents many fine examples of contemporary art in its many galleries that are dotted around the city. Pay a visit to the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art to have your breath taken away by the sheer talent that this city continues to foster and inspire. The Museum of 21st Century Arts – or MAXXI, as it is referred to – is another must-visit destination to satisfy your artistic desires.

MAXXI Museum (photo credit)

Trip to the opera 

For music lovers, going to the opera in Rome is something that must be done! Don your finest outfit befitting a night out at the opera, and prepare yourself for an evening of sensational music. The famous Teatro dell’Opera di Roma is one of the best-known opera houses in Rome, where the likes of Luciano Pavarotti, Maria Callas and Placido Domino have all performed. With its red and gold interior, the Teatro dell’Opera is also a beautiful sight to behold with amazing acoustic quality. During the summertime, the Teatro’s orchestra moves outdoors, which is an experience all of its own!

Teatro dell’Opera (photo credit)

Sculptures 

Rome is home to numerous examples of fine sculptures that can be viewed on the streets of the city as well as in museum and galleries. The Trevi Fountain in Rome, which depicts the great god of the sea Neptune, is one such example of a fine outdoor sculpture. The impressive bronze equestrian sculpture of Marcus Aurelius is a sight to behold and pays homage to the exceptional talent that has emanated from this city. Religious sculpture particularly abounds in Rome, with examples such Michelangelo’s Pieta and the many intricately carved tombs and mausoleums all over the city.

Trevi Fountain (photo credit: yours truly)

Immerse yourself in all the different cultural aspects that Rome has to offer – from opera to a variety of types of art and sculpture – this city has it all and more!