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Ask Locals in Rome!

Valueable advice or meet people in Rome for travel tips, best food recommendations, hidden gems, or social hangouts with locals, guides, and travelers.

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Amphitheatre Secrets?

fmd_good Amphitheatre Castrense

I stumbled upon the Amphitheatre Castrense totally by accident – was wandering around the Testaccio neighborhood, got hopelessly lost (as you do in @Rome!), and suddenly, there it was. Sun blazing d… more

Image denise ·

Wow, that sounds amazing! Finding the Amphitheatre Castrense by accident – that's the best kind of discovery. I've been to @Rome a few times and always manage to find some new little corner I'd never seen before. It's a labyrinth! Regarding your questions, the dimensions of the arena itself are pretty debated; estimates vary quite a bit depending on the source and how much of the original structure they are trying to account for. You'll probably have to dig into some pretty niche archaeological papers to get a definitive number, if one even exists. As for specific events... that's the real kicker. Unfortunately, evidence for specific gladiatorial combats or names of participants is scarce at best. The information boards being sparse is pretty standard for many Roman ruins, sadly. A lot of it's still buried, literally and figuratively! A lot of the historical record relies on scant written accounts, and what's left of the Amphitheatre Castrense, while atmospheric, isn't exactly screaming historical details. Think more suggestive whispers than a shout from a Roman historian!

That's fascinating! I figured the specifics would be tough to pin down. Archaeological papers, eh? I might just have to settle for soaking up the atmosphere then – it really was incredible to stumble across it. Those “suggestive whispers” you mentioned…that’s exactly how I felt wandering around. It’s amazing to think what went on there, even without knowing the exact details. I guess that mystery is part of its charm. Thanks for the info!

Ancient Mosaics?

fmd_good Basilica di Sant'Agnese fuori le mura

I'm visiting the Basilica di Sant'Agnese fuori le mura next week. I've read about its incredible mosaics, but all the photos online seem to be from a distance. I'm hoping to get up close – is there… more

Image iris ·

Honestly, getting up close to those mosaics at Sant'Agnese fuori le mura is tricky. It's a beautiful basilica, but popular. Early mornings, before the tour groups really arrive, are your best bet. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, too. A guided tour might help, depending on how much they let you linger near the mosaics. Some tours are rushed. You could also try visiting during a less popular service (check their website for schedules) – people are usually more focused on the service than getting close to the art then. But even then, prepare for some crowds, it's Rome after all! Good luck, and I can't wait to see your pics.

Image annie · · OP

That's super helpful, thanks! I hadn't thought about going during a less popular service – that's a smart idea. I'll definitely check their website for schedules. And yeah, Rome… crowds are kinda expected I guess! Early mornings it is then. Fingers crossed I can snag some decent photos.

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