Roman Forum nested in a valley between the Capitoline and Palatine hills, is a good starting point. The forum is the most important archaeological complex near the Colosseum. The Roman Forum or Forum Romanum, (although the Romans called it more often the Forum Magnum or just the Forum) was the central area around which ancient Rome developed, in which commerce and the administration of justice took place. The communal hearth was also located here. Sequences of remains of paving show that sediment eroded from the surrounding hills and was already raising the level of the forum in early Republican times. Originally it had been marshy ground, which was drained by the Tarquins with the Cloaca Maxima. It's final travertine paving is still visible and has been in place since the reign of Augustus.

The Colosseum only 4 metro Stops from TwinCities hostel of course, is the symbol of Rome. This is the famous amphitheatre that was able to hold up to 55,000 spectators as they watched gladiator fights, animal fights, etc. Completed in 80AD, it took 10 years to construct and originally had an adjustable canvas - the precursor to today’s stadiums with adjustable roofs. Architects today still marvel at the design, which allowed the Colosseum to be emptied in about 12 minutes (next time you are at a major sporting event)! The Roman Forum was the commercial, political and religious center of ancient Rome. In fact, much of our current political system here in the United States is derived from the Roman political system established during the rule of Caesar. Piazza di Spagna, and the so-called Spanish Steps is another popular Rome attraction. During the spring, it is blooming with flowers. This is a good place to people-watch and hang out, especially at night. The streets leading in and out of the piazza will offer Rome's finest shopping. Look for Via del Corso. Guys beware: if your significant other likes to shop, she will love this district. A day of shopping is usually a very potent aphrodisiac! You can take a stroll (it is best not to drive in Rome, unless you have a death wish - to the Trevi Fountain. Try to time your visit during evening hours, when the fountain is illuminated. Don't forget to throw in a coin over your shoulder; legend has it that doing so will ensure your return to the Eternal City.

Small colosseum