Castel Sant’Angelo

The Castel Sant’Angelo was, in Medieval times, an imperial tomb, constructed in the 1st century as a mausoleum for the emperor Hadrian, who was one of the five so-called “good emperors.” If his monumental tomb is any indication, one could say, he died as he lived. The cylindrical building reflects Hadrian’s classical Hellenic tastes. Since 1825, Castel Sant’Angelo has served as a national museum, the perfect one for families with divisive interests: one parent lives for military history, and the other is bored to tears by it? Castel Sant’Angelo contains a maze of rooms filled with beautiful furniture, painting, sculpture, and, yes, an impressive collection of historic weapons.

Auditorium Parco della Musica

Every year, about one million people visit Parco della Musica’s concert halls—including Cavea, the amphitheater reminiscent of the ancient Roman tradition despite its modern design. But rather than gladiatorial combat, they come for musical performances ranging from pop to opera, as well as other cultural events. The scarab-shaped buildings, designed by Renzo Piano (also the designer of Paris’ famous Centre Pompidou) sit within the vicinity of the 1960 Olympics. Piano altered his plan to accommodate remains of a 6th century villa discovered during construction. You can see these artifacts, and learn about the architectural and acoustical characteristics of the modern structure, during a guided tour of the auditorium. “In winter, there’s also a skating rink that’s great for kids,” says Flavia Padovan.

Villa Sciarra

Villa Sciarra is a lovely park named for the picturesque estate at its center, whose history dates to 1653.  Established as farmland, aristocratic owners put in an aviary complex and botanical garden at the turn of the century. In the 1930s, the park was handed over to Benito Mussolini on the condition that it would become a public park. Today leisure-seeking locals and tourists can unwind in the shade of the Villa, appreciate the variety of plant-life, or sit and admire the sculpture that Richard Wilbur immortalized in his poem, “A Baroque Wall-Fountain in the Villa Sciarra.” Wilbur asked, “since this is pleasure, falsh, and waterfall, must it not be too simple?” Depends who you’re asking, but we say, not at all!

Wonderfool

Wonderfool was originally designed as a luxury men’s spa and wellbeing destination, but it has graciously—thankfully—opened its doors to women.

In addition to top-of-the-line spa amenities, Wonderfool boasts an acclaimed barbershop, custom tailor, and concept store.  A sleek, handsome design scheme creates an atmosphere best described as sexy—the perfect backdrop for escaping Rome’s hustle-and-bustle. Wonderfool presents opportunities for frazzled Romans to relax and recharge in any time-frame: drop in the meticulously curated shop for an impulse buy like an ultra-soft bathrobe or naturally sourced cosmetics, or follow up a trip to its fitness center with one of its famously dizzying massages for a full day affair.

The Fontana dell’Acqua Paola

The Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, also known simply as Il Fontanone, or “the big fountain,” dates from 1610, making it the Tiber’s left bank’s oldest. Built to mark the end of a 2nd century aqueduct, the marble is a historical composite of pillaged materials from the old St. Peter’s Basillica and the Roman Forum.  A baroque facade featuring carved angels, eagles, and dragons is a dreamy, whimsical setting to cool off amid the city heat. To sit at the foot of it, peering at views of the botanical gardens beyond its pink marble arches, is to bask in one of Rome’s most romantic views.