The Eternal City beckons. This city has been a major center of power and culture in the Western Hemisphere for millennia, and still draws pilgrims today. Its elegant charm, rich and intense history, and great art are all reasons visitors descend on Rome. Among all the sights to see here, don’t miss:

1. The Coliseum
The grand center of gladiatorial combat, one can still see this clash of engineering marvel and pure mayhem. Although nearly 2000 years old, the coliseum still draws crowds. Hint: visit the Forum or Palatinate first. Tickets purchased there are also good for the coliseum, and will let visitors slip past the entrance lines.

2. Roman Forum
There is a forum of the Republic, and an Imperial Forum. The Republican Forum is the site of the seat of Roman power even before the time of the emperors. Different buildings housed seats of government, including that of the Roman Senate. Visitors can walk in the seat of power of the entire ancient Western world.

3. St. Peter’s Basilica
Said to lie on the site of the crucifixion of St. Peter, the Basilica is a keystone of history. The vast cathedral is the home of great works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pieta. Energetic visitors may walk the hundreds of steps to the dome for an unparalleled view.

4. Trevi Fountain
This fountain is the site of some key scenes in classic films. Legend says that throwing a coin into the fountain guarantees the wisher a return to Rome.

5. The Pantheon
The most complete relic of classical civilization (built in 27 B.C.) stands in Rome, and is an architectural marvel. This is also the site of Raphael’s tomb.

6. Vatican City
The smallest independent state in the world may also be one of the most visited. Pilgrims flock here for different reasons; religious, historic, or artistic. The seat of Catholic power is also the site of the justly famous Sistine Chapel ceiling, Michelangelo’s jaw-dropping fresco.

7. Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
This basilica was first constructed in the 5th century. The stunning mosaics found here were originally installed at that time. This remains one of Rome’s major basilicas.

Although a thriving modern center, Rome presents visitors with echoes of major historical achievement at every turn. These achievements and events rippled throughout Italy, throughout Europe, throughout the world. All roads lead to Rome.