800 Years of Gladiators: A Self Guided Rome Walking Tour

Walk along the base of the Capitoline Hill, Rome's most sacred hill and civic center since antiquity. Learn about the Temple of Jupiter, triumphal processions, and the legend of Tarpeia's betrayal. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

Pass by the Arch of Constantine, built to celebrate his victory over Maxentius in AD 312. Notice how its reliefs recycle imagery from earlier monuments to legitimize the new emperor's rule. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

Stroll past the Circus Maximus, Rome's vast chariot-racing stadium stretching between the Palatine and Aventine hills. Imagine the roaring crowds, racing factions, and betting culture that once filled this valley. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

Pass by the Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin, a medieval church rooted in Rome's Greek-speaking community. Admire its portico, bell tower, and famous marble mask, the Mouth of Truth. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

Stroll past the Bocca della Verità, an ancient marble face legend says bites off the hands of liars. It gained lasting global fame after appearing in the film Roman Holiday. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

Walk along Piazza del Campidoglio, Michelangelo's Renaissance masterpiece atop the Capitoline Hill. Admire the trapezoidal design, star-patterned pavement, and statue of Marcus Aurelius at its center. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

Pass by the Capitoline Museums, the world's oldest public museum complex, housing the original bronze statue of Marcus Aurelius and treasures spanning Rome's ancient and Renaissance history. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.