Although Rome's power has waned, the city remains the essence of European civilisation. Rome saw a second period of development during the 15th century Renaissance, when the Papacy took up permanent residence in the city. Here, a labyrinth of narrow, winding, cobbled side streets opens out onto magnificent piazzas, presided over by Baroque churches, regal palaces and exquisite fountains. Across the river, to the west, lies the Vatican State, home to the Pope and spiritual centre of the Roman Catholic Church. South of the Vatican one finds the bohemian quarter of Trastevere, packed with trattorie and small wine bars, and further south still, the Testaccio district, renowned for night clubs and live music.
Tourism is a major source of income, and visitors come and go throughout the year.
The city is blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate, making it particularly pleasant to visit in autumn and spring. In August it is hot and sticky and most of the locals head for the coast, many shops and bars close for the summer break, and the streets are strangely empty save for visitors. Until recently, Rome was frequently criticised for being noisy, chaotic and poorly maintained. Click here for details.