Rome, Italy: The must-see sights of Rome

* The Colosseum, Roman Forum & Other Ancient Ruins - One of the greatest works of Roman architecture, the Colosseum was built to house gladiator contests and public shows. Surrounded by ancient ruins, the long-damaged arena rests beside the Roman Forum. The site of ancient Roman commerce and administration of justice, the Forum houses statues, buildings, and temples that have been broken down by time and natural disasters but still represent the origins of Roman civilization and politics.

* St. Peter's Basilica - One of the four major basilicas in the city, St. Peter's rests in the center of the Vatican and is the burial site of Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. One of the holiest sites in Christianity, the building's dome is a prominent feature in the Roman skyline and the principal church of the pope.

* The Vatican Museums & The Sistine Chapel - Originating in the 16th century, the collection started when a single statue - the powerful (and somewhat disturbing) "Laocoon and his sons"was acquired by Pope Julius II. Since then, the Vatican Museums have since grown into a large group of galleries and museums that carry some of the most fascinating collections in the world. The most famous site amidst the Vatican Museums is by far the Sistine Chapel, where artist Michelangelo painted his famous ceiling scene.

* The Fountains Of Rome - It is unlikely that you'll find a city with more fountains than Rome. Built during the Renaissance, when the popes decided to renew the streets of the city, most of the fountains seen throughout Rome were also built with practical uses in mind. Several fountains were also built amidst gardens to symbolize wealth and compliment the beauty of the outdoors. Some of the more well known fountains include the Fountain of Triton, the Trevi Fountain and the Fountain of Neptune.

* The Churches - With over 400 churches in the historic center of the city alone, it's unlikely that you'll walk down a street in Rome without seeing one of these religious buildings. Steeped in tradition, the churches are not only an ode to the inspiring architecture of the city but are also strong evidence of the Catholicism that runs through the city's veins.

* The Spanish Steps - The longest, widest staircase in Europe, the Spanish Steps were originally built in 1723 - 1725 to connect the Piazza di Spagna to a church, the Trinità dei Monti, on top. Most beautiful in the spring, when the stairs are covered with bright, vibrant flowers, the site is popular amongst artists, writers and tourists alike and was said to be a spot where models waited to be discovered by painters in the 18th century.

* Shopping - As if the historical, cultural and religious aspects of Rome weren't enough, the city is also surprisingly modern. Rome is home to several high-end fashion designers, as well as many more affordable, authentic Italian boutiques that include fine leathers and jewelry. There are also several marketplaces throughout the city where fresh foods and handmade goods are popular with tourists.

Vatican - Alper Sekerler
Colosseum - Gianfranco Franci
Fountain - Deanna Keahey