How to spend top weekend in Rome - ideas on extraordinary attractions and sites

Classic landmarks of Rome can amaze absolutely everyone, so it’s clearly understandable why they have long become incredibly popular worldwide. However, millions of travelers know nothing about many other unusual symbols of the city, which are, nevertheless, as much interesting and unique as world heritage sights. Do you like cats? If yes, you’ve chosen the right city, as besides three million residents, Rome is home to nearly 300 thousand cats. Many of them live on the same street, which is also one of the most unusual landmarks of Rome. That is the so called “Cat Sanctuary” that is located in Torre Argentina (Torre di Argentina) district. Archeological excavations lasted several years in this part of the city, but now the large territory is absolutely empty, and only cats live there. There are roughly not less than 500 kitties living in Cat Sanctuary. When you plan to visit that place, don’t forget to bring some treats for the animals.

When you are in mood for visiting unusual places, climb up to Aventino . There is picturesque Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta on top of the mountain. You will see old high gates near the square. If you find the keyhole and look through it, you will learn one of the main “secrets of Rome”. Travelers, who have already found the keyhole, often keep in secret what they saw there. We won’t be so mysterious and spill the beans. The keyhole offers a wonderful view of the St. Peter’s Basilica. The view is so gorgeous that it feels like there is a fairytale land behind the gates. Experienced photographers manage to make fabulous shots through the keyhole, but everyone is welcome to test their picture taking skills in Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta.

On Sunday, don’t forget to visit the old Porta Portese market. This is an awesome place to buy excellent vintage souvenirs that will be a worthy alternative to traditional magnets and mugs. The flea market is a great place to shop old ceramics and interesting wooden artworks. Without a doubt, the market is a treasure for antiquity collectors. When shopping on Porta Portese, don’t forget about the main thing. It’s essential to bargain on the market. For locals, bargaining has become a good old ritual, and not a symbol of greediness. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

If you want to buy some “hot” souvenirs for your friends and family, head to Peperita shop. This is a nice place to buy creative souvenirs with chili peppers – interesting bouquets, garlands, home decorations, and even chili pepper plants in pots. Dozens of types of sault and oil with pepper, savory jam with pepper, different spices and their combinations – Peperita is an awesome place to visit for everyone keen on culinary and spicy food. In addition to “chili pepper” souvenirs, visitors can buy the traditional Limoncello liqueur. One of the best specialty stores is open on Piazza Navona .

There is a secret street in Rome - via Piccolomini - the unique characteristic of which is known only to some travelers. This street offers a panoramic view of the St. Peter’s Basilica, the one that is seen through the keyhole of the old metal door. However, the main peculiarity is not in the view. During a walk on the street, you will notice a fascinating optical illusion. You will not be able to look at the cupola closer – when you walk towards the basilica, it looks like it’s slipping away. The further you are from the cupola, the bigger it looks. That’s a miraculous trick of vision. If you have an opportunity, make a car or motorbike ride on via Piccolomini because with faster speed the optical illusion looks even more unforgettable.