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Rome (civitavecchia), Italy
Sprawled across seven legendary hills, romantic and beautiful Rome was one of the great centers of the ancient world. Although its beginning is shrouded in legend and its development is full of intrigue and struggle, Rome has always been and remains the “Eternal City.” Its greatest splendor was experienced during the 1st and 2nd centuries when art flourished, monumental works of architecture were erected, and the mighty Roman legions swept outward, conquering much of the known world. With Rome’s establishment as capital of the Western world, a new ascent to glory began.
Today’s Rome, with its splendid churches, ancient monuments and palaces, spacious parks, tree-lined boulevards, fountains, outdoor cafés and elegant shops, is one of the world’s most attractive and exciting cities. Among the most famous monuments is the Coliseum. As you walk its cool, dark passageways, imagine the voices that once filled the arena as 50,000 spectators watched combat between muscled gladiators and ferocious animals. Stop to see the remains of the Forum, once the city’s political and commercial center. In later times, Rome’s squares were enhanced with such imposing structures as the Vittorio Emanuele Monument, the monumental Trevi fountain and Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, to name just a few.
Rome jars the senses and captures the soul. Join the many visitors who stand in awe of St. Peter's Basilica, Christendom’s most magnificent church. Admire the timeless masterpiece of Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. For the Millennium, Rome underwent an extensive beautification program that restored and cleaned churches, palaces, museums and piazzas. Many of the streets, squares and public spaces have been turned into pedestrian areas, causing additional strain on already horrendous traffic conditions.
When visiting Rome, guests must be aware that traffic and parking problems may cause delays.
Caution: Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and watches or carrying large amounts of cash ashore with you.
Pier Information
The ship is scheduled to dock in the port of Civitavecchia. The town center can be reached on foot in about 15 minutes, depending on the actual berth location. Rome is reached via an approximately 90-minute drive (subject to traffic conditions). There is train service between Civitavecchia and Rome. However, taxi service at the pier is usually very limited.
Shopping
The choice of shops is limited in Civitavecchia. However, you can find several good leather and shoe stores along the main street. In Rome, the selection is endless. Leather articles, shoes, designer fashions, linens, knitwear and silk scarves are among the most popular items. Some of the best-known shopping streets in Rome include the Corso Italia, Via Veneto and Via Condotti. The latter is particularly known for its famous name designer boutiques. Some shops close for lunch between 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Department stores are the exception. The local currency is the euro.
Cuisine
Rome's choice of restaurants is mind-boggling, as is the variety of cuisine. Whether your meal is at a top-rated restaurant or a rustic trattoria, you can be sure that you will enjoy your food, especially when accompanied by wines from the hill towns surrounding Rome.
Other Sites
Rome's attractions are endless. With limited time, a careful selection has to be made. Following is a sampling of some of the most noteworthy sights:
Galleria Borghese
The former palace of Cardinal Scipione Borghese today houses a fabulous art collection in an extraordinary setting. Admission times and entrance tickets are strictly controlled.
Via Veneto
Take a stroll along Rome's famous street with its elegant shops, luxury hotels and popular cafés.
Spanish Steps
Together with the Piazza di Spagna, the famous staircase has been the place to see and be seen for centuries. It is one of Rome's featured landmarks.
Antico Caffe Greco
This 200-year-old institution on chic Via Condotti has seen artists and literati gathering around the tiny tables and velour settees.
Private arrangements for independent sightseeing may be requested through the Tour Office on board.
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Safire American Bistro’s Partners Jim Foley and Executive Chef Michael Muirhead
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