Vittorio Emanuele II Monument

The Vittorio Emanuele II Monument was created in 1885 and then inaugurated in 1911 to commemorate Italy's first King, Vittoria Emanule II. The entire monument, also commonly referred to as the "Typewriter Building", is white and is situated in the busy traffic junction of Piazza Venezia. Although the building itself is not open to the public it is possible to walk up the stairs for a closer look. As visitors you are not permitted to sit on these stairs - this is closely monitored by policemen with whistles so don't sit down!

Trevi Fountain

Without a doubt the most romantic fountain in Rome is the Trevi Fountain. It was designed by Nicole Salvi in 1732 and was the scene of the famous kiss in the movie La Dolce Vita in 1968. The statue in the middle is the God Ocean with winged horses drawing his cockleshell.

Trevi Fountain is a great spot to rest. Take time out to sit on the steps, throw in your coin to return to Rome, another to make a wish and to watch visitors take an infinite amount of pictures. The light cast on Trevi Fountain at different times of the day gives the fountain interesting changes and a visit there before sunset and later in the evening is recommended. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the area so if you decide to eat there, be selective, the quality of some is questionable.

Spanish Steps & Piazza di Spagna

The backdrop of the Piazza di Spagna is the famous Spanish Steps that takes its' name from the Spanish Embassy that was located there. The Spanish Steps form a resting and gathering spot for Romans and tourists alike. To the right of the Spanish Steps is Keats House, a monument containing memoirs to the poet John Keats and other romantic poets of his time including Byron and Shelley. At the top of the Steps is the French Church created in the 16C, Trinita Dei Monti. From here take a look down towards the Piazza di Spagna for a great view of the Baraccia Fountain representing a sinking ship and believed to have been created by Bernini in 1629. Stretching ahead of the Spanish Steps and Baraccia Fountain is the Via Condetti, home to Rome's fashionable designer stores and boutiques.

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