Also known as the Eternal City, Rome is a haven of all things creative, cultural, and historic. Throughout its ancient streets, attractions harking back to yesteryear promise stories both old and new, and anyone visiting this fascinating city knows that there are fun facts to learn around every twist and turn.
To keep the intrigue going, we’ve put together some of the most interesting facts about Rome for your reading pleasure.
Fountains Galore
Did you know that Rome has no less than 280 fountains and over 900 churches? That’s a lot of statues and buildings to see! The plethora of fountains dates back to ancient times when water in the city freely flowed from its aqueducts.
Make a Wish
The Trevi Fountain draws in crowds all throughout the year, many of whom toss in coins and make a wish. Every year, more than €700,000 are thrown into the fountain, the proceeds of which are donated to help people in need.
All Roads Lead to Rome
You’ve heard this saying before, right? In fact, by the end of the 4th century, the Romans had built 53,000 miles’ worth of roads, each of which was about 4,800 feet and marked by a milestone. This is where the popular saying originates from.
Rome’s Mascot
Not many cities have a mascot, but Rome certainly does. It is a she-wolf who is thought to have cared for the mythological founders of the city, Romulus and Remus.
Not Always the Capital
It’s hard to believe that Rome hasn’t always been the capital of Italy but, in actual fact, it only got the title in 1870 after taking over from Florence.
Cat Crazy
There’s a law in Rome that says cats are allowed to live without disruption in the place they were born. This is why you’ll often see wild cats climbing up the crumbling ruins of the Colosseum and sleeping among the fallen monuments in the Forum.
Pasta Crazy, Too
It’s not just cats that Rome seems to celebrate. There’s also an entire museum dedicated solely to pasta – where are all the carb lovers at?
The Largest Church
As well as having literally hundreds of churches, Rome (or, more specifically, Vatican City), is home to the largest church ever constructed, St Peter’s Basilica.
These are just some of the facts that have made Rome the opulent, fascinating, and mesmerising city it is today. Just take a wander around the streets and you’ll stumble on hundreds more.
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