List of Italian Monuments

The Colosseum

• The Colosseum, located in Rome and dating back to 80 A.D., was constructed to serve as an entertainment venue. Events such as gladiatorial contests, re-enactments of famous battles and mythological dramas were held in the Colosseum, where upward of 50,000 spectators could gather to enjoy the events. Though the Colosseum has suffered damage from earthquakes and vandals, the monument is a testament to the advanced architectural and engineering capabilities of the time. The Colosseum is one of Rome's top tourist attractions and is a symbol of Italy.

  Guests may visit the Colosseum daily from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m.

  The Colosseum
  Piazza del Colosseo, 9, 00184
  Rome, Italy
  +39.06.39967700
  rome.info/colosseum/

The Pantheon

• Another of Italy's great monuments is the Pantheon, also located in Rome. It was originally commissioned by Marcus Agrippa in 27 B.C. and fell victim to fire. In 126 A.D., it was reconstructed by Emperor Hardin. The Pantheon was originally designed to serve as a temple to the ancient Roman Gods, but since the seventh century A.D., it has served as a Roman Catholic church--which it is still used as today. The most famous feature of the Pantheon is the oculus, a circular opening that measures 7.8 meters in diameter and sits at the top of the building's domed roof. The Pantheon is the world's largest non-reinforced concrete dome and is Rome's best preserved ancient monument.

  Visitors can tour the structure from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

  The Pantheon
  Piazza della Rotonda
  Rome, Italy
  +39 06 68300230
  rome.info/pantheon/

Michelangelo's David

• One of the most noted sculptures of all time is Michelangelo's David. The statue was commissioned in 1501 and was completed in 1504 by the Renaissance sculptor. It pays homage to the biblical hero, David. In this rendition of David, he appears to be contemplating battle with Goliath, as he holds a slingshot over his left shoulder. Originally, the statue was placed at the entrance of the Palazzo Vecchio. Fears that it would succumb to the elements caused the statue to be moved to the Accademia Gallery in Florence in 1873, where it is still on display today.

  Visitors can view David at the Accademia Gallery Tuesdays through Sundays between 8:15 a.m. and 6:15 p.m.

  Accademia Gallery--Michelangelo's David
  Via Ricasoli 58-60
  Florence, Italy
  +39-055-2388-609
  polomuseale.firenze.it/english/musei/accademia/