Roman Catholic pilgrims flock to the ancient city during Jubilee years to receive pardons for their sins. The millennial Jubilee will draw not only the faithful but also devotees of art, culture, and history. In anticipation of this great event the city of Rome, the country of Italy, and the independent papal state of Vatican City have poured millions of lire into countless cultural events, reopening long-closed museums, restoring palaces, carrying out archeological excavations, and much more. And while many who fear pilgrim overload will want to avoid Rome in 2000, there is in fact plenty of room for all. With numerous art shows, concerts, and events planned in honour of the Jubilee, the year 2000 will offer any visitor to Rome an unusually wide array of choices.
New excavations make the Forum Rome's biggest open-air museum.
Thanks to the rivers of money that have flowed into Rome in preparation for this major event, many of the city's museums, archeological sites, and palaces are at their sparkling best and provide the perfect itinerary for the wayward pilgrim. The Centrale Montemartini is a bit out of the way but well worth the effort. Installed against a background of gleaming black turbine engines, the ancient marbles glow in their industrial setting, providing a unique opportunity to view a juxtaposition of urban and ancient relics. The excellent coffee shop on the mezzanine overlooking the mosaics is the perfect stop for a mid-morning cappuccino. Art through the ages For a more traditional setting for art, visit the Palazzo Altemps and the Palazzo Massimo, both recently reopened after decades of restoration.