Holidays in Rome: A hypothetical tour to find the traces of the Middle Ages among the monuments of Rome
Welcome, passionate travelers and history lovers, on our exclusive tour to discover the medieval wonders of Rome. Let us prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey through monuments that have stood the test of time, each with its own unique story to tell.
1. Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore: A Treasure of Mosaics and History
We begin our journey from the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the oldest churches dedicated to Mary in the West. This magnificent building, with its imposing columns and the atmosphere of sacredness that pervades it, is a jewel of history and art. Inside, you can admire an extraordinary collection of mosaics, some of the oldest and best preserved in Rome. These artworks, with refined details and vibrant colors, tell biblical stories with amazing realism. The central nave, the side chapels, every corner of the basilica is a chapter of history that speaks through the beauty of art.
2. Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano: A Crossroads of Time and Style
We now proceed to the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, one of the most important churches in Rome. Its imposing façade leads to an interior that is a mix of styles, where the Middle Ages meets the Renaissance and the Baroque. The mosaic floors, the imposing statues, the elaborate altars and the works of art that adorn the basilica speak of centuries of history and changes, reflecting the different eras through which the church has passed. A particularly remarkable aspect is the Holy Staircase, considered to be the one Jesus walked during his Passion, a place of deep veneration and history.
3. Basilica of San Clemente: Digging in the Depths of History
The Basilica of San Clemente, with its three overlapping levels, is a site that literally represents a journey through time. From the present church, dating from the 11th century, we can descend to the levels below, discovering the remains of a 4th century church and, even further down, remains of Roman buildings and a mithraeum. Each level is a step back in time, where you can see the layers of Rome’s history overlapping each other. It is an almost surreal experience, walking on floors that date back centuries, touching walls that have resisted invasions and changes.
4. Castel Sant'Angelo: A Fortress of History and Mystery
Our next step takes us to Castel Sant'Angelo, a building that has had multiple lives: from the mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian to a medieval fortress, from a papal residence to a prison. This imposing structure rises majestically along the banks of the Tiber. Exploring its interior means crossing corridors that resonate with the voices of the past, visiting rooms that have hosted popes and prisoners. The museum inside the castle houses an extensive collection of weapons, paintings and other artifacts that tell the complex history of this place. Do not forget to climb the terrace for a breathtaking view of Rome.
5. Jewish Ghetto: A Resilient Community in the Heart of Rome
Our journey ends in the Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest and most characteristic districts of Rome. This area, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, is a journey into another time. The Jewish Ghetto tells the story of a community that has experienced moments of great prosperity but also intense persecution. Walking through its alleys, you will come across small shops, restaurants serving traditional Jewish-Roman dishes, and the majestic Synagogue of Rome. It is a place that embodies the history of resistance and resilience of a community that has been able to keep its traditions alive over the centuries.
Between the folds of time
This tour through the medieval monuments of Rome is more than just a tourist visit; it is an immersion in history, an experience that connects past and present. Each site visited is a chapter of a wider narrative, that of a city that has crossed empires, papacies, invasions and revolutions, always keeping its identity alive. With this journey through time, we hope to have kindled in you the same passion for history and beauty that animates the Eternal City.
Do you want to stay in Rome?
For this location we recommend Hotel Oxford, the ideal starting point to discover Rome!
