traveldk.com

The pastiche of motifs on this monument to Victor Emmanuel II is so out of sync with the city that Romans ignore it or give it nicknames such as “The Wedding Cake”.

The largest temple and one of the most commanding of this imposing zone was the 2nd-century AD Temple of Venus and Rome, its columns standing high on the hill between the Forum and the Colosseum. Its back-to-back design was Hadrian’s, and when the great architect Apollodorus criticized it, Hadrian had him put to death (see The Colosseum and Imperial Fora).

This up-market hotel is in a 17th-century building – once lived in by Hans Christian Andersen. It has great views of the Spanish Steps from its attractive rooftop garden. Well-equipped rooms inlcude satellite TV and internet access.

Whatever he or she may need in active wear, from jeans and tops to gear designed for specific sports, it’s all here at prices that make shops in other parts of Rome seem outrageous.

This medieval pope (1198– 1216) hand-picked emperors and approved monkish orders.

Rome’s mini-chain of vegetarian-orientated eateries. Huge, inventive salads are the mainstay, although they also offer good pasta dishes. Seating outdoors.

Villa Borghese’s annual splash-out for the equestrian classes. International show-jumping in this gorgeous garden setting. Much of the park is closed off for the event and its gala parties.

One of many Chinese shops in Rome’s Chinatown. This one specializes in women’s wear.

Style and friendly service near St Peter’s. Don’t let the plain exterior dismay you; inside is a touch of Classical fantasy, so you know you’re in Rome – murals, wall silks and marble bathrooms, and most rooms have balconies.