Metropolitan City of Rome
Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The Metropolitan City of Rome province occupies a total geographical area of 5,352 square kilometres, including the city of Rome itself, the regional capital of Lazio.
Within the province there are 121 provincial towns, known as communes (comune singular or comuni plural in Italian), containing a total population of just under 4.5 million inhabitants. |
Among the highlights in the province are Villa d'Este in Tivoli, Lake Bracciano, Ostia Antica and the towns of the Castelli Romani area.
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Metropolitan City of Rome • Province • Lazio • Central Italy
The Metropolitan City of Rome province is located in the central part of Lazio, encompassing the capital city of Rome as well as a vast surrounding area of countryside, towns, and historic landmarks. The province is characterised by its rich history, which spans from ancient Roman times to the present, and its varied landscapes, including the rolling hills of the Roman countryside, lush vineyards, and nearby lakes. It offers a mix of urban excitement, cultural treasures, and natural beauty, making it one of the most diverse areas in Italy.
Rome, the heart of the province and Italy’s capital, is renowned for its unparalleled historical and cultural landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican City. Beyond its ancient monuments, the city is home to a vibrant arts scene, charming neighbourhoods, and a bustling atmosphere that draws millions of visitors each year. The province also includes several towns and villages that offer a glimpse of rural Italy, such as Tivoli, which is famous for its UNESCO-listed villas, including Villa d'Este and Villa Adriana, as well as the stunning waterfalls at Villa Gregoriana.
In addition to Rome's historic centre, the province is home to several nature reserves and parks, such as the Castelli Romani, a picturesque area known for its hilltop villages, vineyards, and lakes. Lake Bracciano, just north of Rome, is a popular spot for outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and birdwatching. The province also includes smaller towns like Frascati, known for its historic villas and wine, and Ostia Antica, which offers well-preserved ruins from the ancient port city. With its rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, the province of Rome offers a varied and enriching experience for visitors.
Rome, the heart of the province and Italy’s capital, is renowned for its unparalleled historical and cultural landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican City. Beyond its ancient monuments, the city is home to a vibrant arts scene, charming neighbourhoods, and a bustling atmosphere that draws millions of visitors each year. The province also includes several towns and villages that offer a glimpse of rural Italy, such as Tivoli, which is famous for its UNESCO-listed villas, including Villa d'Este and Villa Adriana, as well as the stunning waterfalls at Villa Gregoriana.
In addition to Rome's historic centre, the province is home to several nature reserves and parks, such as the Castelli Romani, a picturesque area known for its hilltop villages, vineyards, and lakes. Lake Bracciano, just north of Rome, is a popular spot for outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and birdwatching. The province also includes smaller towns like Frascati, known for its historic villas and wine, and Ostia Antica, which offers well-preserved ruins from the ancient port city. With its rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, the province of Rome offers a varied and enriching experience for visitors.
Highlights
- Rome's Historic Sites: Explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City with St. Peter's Basilica, and the Trevi Fountain, among other iconic landmarks.
- Villa d'Este: Visit this Renaissance villa in Tivoli, renowned for its terraced gardens, fountains, and frescoed interiors, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Ostia Antica: Discover the ancient Roman port city, Ostia Antica, with well-preserved ruins, mosaics, and theaters.
- Civita di Bagnoregio: Experience the "Dying Town," perched on a tufa rock, accessible by a pedestrian bridge and boasting medieval charm.
- Lake Bracciano: Enjoy the picturesque lake, visit the town of Bracciano with its medieval castle, and savor local cuisine in lakeside villages.
Practicalities
- Access: Rome Province is easily accessible by air through Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Ciampino Airport (CIA). High-speed trains connect Rome to major Italian cities.
- Accommodation: Rome offers a myriad of accommodations, from luxury hotels in the city center to boutique guesthouses in charming neighborhoods. Towns like Tivoli and Bracciano also provide unique lodging options.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for sightseeing. Summer can be hot, and winter is quieter with festive holiday decorations.
- Local Cuisine: Indulge in Roman classics like carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì. Explore local markets for fresh produce, cheeses, and wines.
Città Metropolitana di Roma
Neighbouring regions: Abruzzo