Viator Rome

One of Rome‘s most recognizable monuments goes by many names – some official, some less so. Its official moniker is the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument, it’s more commonly known simply as the “Vittoriano.” Many Romans dislike the monument’s design, however, so you may also hear it referred to as “The Typewriter,” “The Wedding Cake” or even “The False Teeth.” Like it or hate it, the Vittoriano is hard to miss.

Gracefully designed and good for a rest and people watching, I admit I was not overwhelmed by the Spanish Steps the first time I saw them. There seemed to be a lot of traffic, a lot of chaos, and too much grime and rubbish.

What’s that? You don’t really like art? Then why are you in Rome? Good thing there are plenty of monuments. From the ruins of the Empire to the church relics, Rome is pretty much a huge museum. Even people who aren’t interested in art will marvel at the sweeping perfection found in Renaissance mainstays such as the Vatican, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Borghese Gallery. You can find good deals on Skip the Line tours of Rome, but these are without a guide, and I really think you’ll get more out of your trip if someone is telling what makes all that artwork important, in addition to what makes it beautiful.