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Rome

Rome is the capital city of Italy and one of the world’s most historically significant cities.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Rome is the capital city of Italy and one of the world’s most historically significant cities. Known as the “Eternal City,” it is associated with ancient Roman history, major landmarks such as the Colosseum, and its role as a centre of Catholicism through Vatican City. With a population estimated at 2,761,632 in 2022, it is Italy's largest city.

History

Rome is traditionally said to have been founded in 753 BC and later became the centre of the Roman Empire. It remains a major historical symbol of Western civilization.

Landmarks

The city is known for major sights including the Colosseum, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Vatican Museums. The Colosseum is one of Rome’s best-known archaeological sites and is described as the largest and most famous Roman amphitheatre.

Culture and religion

Rome is a global centre of art, architecture, and Catholic heritage, with Vatican City forming its most important religious landmark. The city is also known for cuisine, shopping, and public squares.

Modern city

Today Rome is Italy’s political capital and a major European metropolis. It continues to attract visitors for its mix of ancient ruins, museums, and living urban culture.

Key facts

  • Rome is the capital and largest city of Italy.
  • The city is traditionally dated to 753 BC, making it more than 2,700 years old.
  • Rome is widely known for ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps.
  • The Colosseum is described as the largest and most famous Roman amphitheatre.
  • Vatican City is an independent city-state within Rome and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church.
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Canadian context

Rome is a major destination for Canadian travellers interested in history, art, Catholic heritage, and Mediterranean travel.

Frequently asked questions

What is Rome known for?
Rome is known for its ancient ruins, world-class art, iconic landmarks, and its role as a historic centre of the Roman Empire and Catholicism.
How old is Rome?
Rome is traditionally dated to 753 BC, which makes it more than 2,700 years old.
What is the Colosseum in Rome?
The Colosseum is a large ancient Roman amphitheatre, built between 70 and 80 AD, and one of Rome’s most famous archaeological sites.
What is the Vatican City in Rome?
Vatican City is an independent city-state within Rome and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church.
How many people live in Rome?
Rome’s city population was estimated at 2,761,632 in 2022.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannicahttps://www.britannica.com/place/Rome
    Supports: Rome’s status as Italy’s capital, historical importance, location, and 2022 estimated population.
  2. Italia.ithttps://www.italia.it/en/lazio/rome/guide-history-facts
    Supports: Traditional founding date and the Colosseum’s construction and role.
  3. Rome Actuallyhttps://www.romeactually.com/what-is-rome-famous-for/
    Supports: Rome’s well-known landmarks and reputation for history and archaeology.
  4. Royal Caribbeanhttps://www.royalcaribbean.com/inspire/what-is-rome-italy-known-for
    Supports: Rome’s reputation for ancient ruins, art, and landmarks.
  5. EBSCO Research Startershttps://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/geography-and-cartography/rome-italy
    Supports: Rome’s historical significance, landmarks, and location on the Tiber River.
  6. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rome
    Supports: Colosseum as an iconic archaeological site.
  7. Kiddlehttps://www.kiddle.co/Rome
    Supports: Colosseum built 70–80 AD and as a symbol of Rome.
  8. Simple English Wikipediahttps://www.simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rome
    Supports: Rome’s population and status as capital and largest city of Italy.