Rome Travel Guide

Rome, the historic capital of both the Lazio region and the province of Roma, is a city steeped in deep cultural, political, and religious significance. Located in the central part of the Italian Peninsula along the Tiber River, about 15 miles (24 km) from the Tyrrhenian Sea, Rome once served as the heart of an ancient republic and empire. This civilization, with its powerful armies and governance, shaped much of Western history. Today, Rome continues to be a prominent political hub, a central religious site as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church, and a lasting symbol of artistic and intellectual achievement.

Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome remains a testament to the great cultural and architectural feats of the past. The city covers an area of 496 square miles (1,285 square km), while the entire province spans 2,066 square miles (5,352 square km). As of 2022, Rome’s population is estimated at 2.76 million people, with the greater province hosting approximately 4.22 million.