Following the recommendations on Xiaohongshu to check out this photo spot definitely didn't disappoint (the low wall right in front of La Biga). The entire Colosseum sits perfectly right behind you, making every shot look amazing. But the platform is taller than it looks, so you do have to climb up a bit.
It’s my second time visiting the Colosseum, and it's still so mind-blowing. Standing inside and looking up at the arches, you can almost hear the roar of the crowd back then. People watching games here two thousand years ago wasn't all that different from us sitting in a stadium today.
However, the place that truly captivated me the most on this trip was the Roman Forum right next door.
There are no complete buildings there—just broken pillars, foundations, and ruined walls. But it’s precisely this incompleteness that gives you a real sense of immersion—this was the road they walked to work, that open area was once buzzing with merchants, only three pillars remain of the temple, and people still leave flowers where Julius Caesar was cremated. Walking through it, you suddenly realize this isn't just a set of ruins; it’s the daily life of a city, just two thousand years later.
The Colosseum is Rome’s famous landmark, while the Forum is Rome’s everyday life. Both are well worth visiting, but if you're short on time, I’d recommend spending more of it at the Forums#newyorkjersey#jerseys#checkersshirt👕#ravensjersey#Lemon8Diary
5 days agoEdited to
... Read moreVisiting the Colosseum and Roman Forum offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of ancient Rome firsthand. When you arrive at the Colosseum, don’t just admire it from the outside—take the time to explore the interior arches and imagine the crowds that once gathered here to witness gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. I found that early morning visits are ideal to avoid large crowds and capture stunning photos with soft natural light.
Just beside the Colosseum lies the Roman Forum, an archaeological treasure that reveals the heart of everyday Roman life. Walking through the Forum, I was struck by the fragments of once majestic temples and bustling marketplaces. It’s fascinating to think that the worn paths beneath your feet were once trodden by ancient Romans going about their daily routines. Bringing this ancient cityscape to life, plaques and signs throughout help visitors understand the significance of each ruin.
One unexpected highlight is the spot where Julius Caesar was cremated, a poignant reminder of the Forum’s rich history filled with political intrigue and power struggles. Spending time here provides a deeper connection to the stories of Rome's past, far beyond what is visible at a glance.
For photography enthusiasts, the low wall in front of La Biga provides a perfect vantage point to capture the Colosseum in the background. Be mindful that the platform can be higher than it appears, so some climbing is required, but the resulting images are well worth the effort. Combining these historic sites with leisurely strolls through adjacent streets offers a rich cultural experience.
If your schedule is tight, prioritizing the Roman Forum can be especially rewarding, as this site encapsulates the essence of Roman public and private life. It’s these subtle, lived-in details that transport you back two millennia, making the Roman Forum a compelling alternative to the more iconic but often crowded Colosseum.
Overall, my visits to the Colosseum and Roman Forum have deepened my appreciation for Rome’s layered history, demonstrating that these ancient ruins are not just relics but vibrant gateways into the lives of people long gone.