Category: History
NASA History in Rome: The Birthplace of Michael Collins
Visiting Rome is always a history lesson. But many people — even Romans — don’t know that Rome played a small part in the history of NASA and the first moon landing.
Rome Wasn’t Built In a Day. So How Long Did It Take?
Rome wasn’t built in a day but over thousands of years. Here’s how long it took to build some of the Eternal City’s most famous attractions.
20-Minute Crash Course on Ancient Roman History [Video]
Learn about ancient Rome in XX minutes – that’s 20 minutes, Roman style!
Who Was Saint Valentine?
Saint Valentine, a Christian bishop from Umbria, was martyred in Rome in the 3rd century AD. Learn more about his life, death, and legend.
Lost in Translation: A Look at the Gruesome Stories Behind Rome’s Monuments and Art
We admire Italy’s art and monuments for color, style, and the skillfulness of their creators. But the gruesome stories that many of these famous works depict are a reminder of real human suffering.
Enrico Toti: Italy’s One-Legged Cyclist Turned World War I Hero
Italian cyclist Enrico Toti may have the most fascinating World War I story I’ve ever read.
Remembering the Battle of Montecassino
About an hour and a half south of Rome lies Montecassino, an enormous Benedictine monastery whose environs witnessed a very costly battle of World War II.
Important Dates in Italian History for the Curious Traveler
A short primer on a few of the dates you will encounter while meandering the streets and squares of Italy.
