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Lazio (Latium)

Lazio is more than just Rome, it has mountains, beaches, Renaissance remains, Papal villas, health spas, numerous museums, archaeological sites, monuments and churches, roman forums, fountains (Fontana di Trevi), in other words it is concentrated with relics of over two thousand years of history. The Etruscan presence (especially in Tarquinia) is still felt; moreover, volcanic hills, lakes and fine beaches are all easily reached from Rome. The Latium coasts are washed by the Thyrrenean sea and the Tiber flows through this regions and is the third largest river in Italy after the Po and the Adige. Rome (the eternal city) is the region’s capital founded by Romolo the first of seven kings in 753bc. Since then Rome is the political centre of Italy and then seat of Christianity (Independent sovereign state, Vatican City). Rome should be experienced via Campidoglio (the seat of roman city council), Palatino (an important archeological site), the Coliseum and the Forum. Rome also boasts huge modern suburbs distinguished amongst which EUR (Universal Exhibition of Rome), it is one of the capitals of fashion as well as known as a shopping centre in Via del Corso and Via Condotti, both lined with elegant shops; Piazza di Spagna and its famous staircase. The Trastevere area (meaning across the Tiber) with its most popular gathering place ideal for nightlife is Piazza Santa Marie, the square that never sleeps with its bars and restaurants. For a spectacular view of Rome, head up to Mount Janiculum, which is famous for its cloister artwork. Not to miss also the Porta Portese flea market located off via Trastevere.
Leaving Rome heading towards the Thyrrenean coast to enjoy its lively seaside resorts such as Santa Marinella, the Lido of Ostia that is the bathing centre of Rome, Terracina and its sandy beaches, San Felice, Circeo and Sabaudia known for the clean seawater and wide sandy beaches.
Moreover, a must see are Civitavecchia (regular ferries to Sardinia), the unspoiltj Ponzian Islands, Montecassino, Rieti, Frosinone (well known for its vineyards), Viterbo (for centuries it was the Papal residence) and Cinecitta` (famous for the film industry).
Rome is scattered with thermal baths and holiday resorts dating from antiquity (Fiuggi), Bagni di Stigliano and Tivoli.
All this captures the enduring fascination over the region’s countless visitors and a whole lifetime would not be sufficient to explore it in its totality.