Throughout much of its long, noble history Rome was a city-state unto itself, developing and basking in its own grandeur and uniqueness. Built on seven hills, halfway between the country's fertile, industrious north and balmy, Mediterranean south, Rome has been at the center of Italy's empire building as well as her inspiring cultural and artistic expressions.

It is hard to believe that the Dark or Middle Ages ever existed in a city so steeped in light and littered with magnificent white marble ruins. The ancient Romans bequeathed such famous monuments as the Colosseum, Forum, Circus Maximus, Pantheon, Baths of Caracalla and Catacombs. From the Renaissance came the Vatican City, St. Peter's Square & Basilica and a priceless array of art treasures commissioned by the incomparably wealthy trade dynasties.

Over the centuries, numerous piazzas, palaces, fountains and churches have congregated, in Rome, to form one of the world's most beautiful cities. And when in Rome, we suggest doing as the Romans . . . strolling the Spanish Steps and along the shops and cafe culture of the Via Condotti and Via Veneto or simply tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain. From a seemingly infinite number of casual city spots, from cafes to street corners, Romans and visitors alike leisurely view the colorful lifestyle of their beloved city, as it plays out on a backdrop layered by centuries.