The Colosseum, or Colosseo, is arguably the most famous amphitheatre, located at the heart of Rome, Italy. This architectural feat, was the largest amphitheatre built in the Roman Empire, seating 50,000 spectators. The finishing touches were put on this remarkable structure in 80 AD, and remained in use for almost 500 years. The Colosseum is most famously known its traditional gladiator games, but early Romans also held re-encarnations of famous battles, animal hunts, mock sea battles, and dramas based on ancient mythology.

The site of the monument was chosen between the Caelian, Esquiline and Palatine Hills, by a nearby stream, sparking rapid growth in the area. The Colosseum went through several radical changes during the Medieval period, from having a small church built into the structure, to being used as a castle by the Frangipani family in the 1200s. Then in the 16th and 17th century, the Church, under the guidance of Pope Sixtus, decided to take a more active roll, and planned on turning the building into a wool factory to provide employment for those in need. However this plan fell through with his death.

Today, the Colosseum is one of the most popular tourist attractions, not only in Rome, but in the world. The effects of general deterioration sparked a restoration program between 1993 and 2000, costing around 40 billion lira.

Although the interior of the Colosseum is in no condition to host events anymore, some internationally known performers, including Paul McCartney and Elton John, have held concerts just outside, using this incredible structure as a backdrop. To listen to a walking tour of the inside of the Coloseum on your iPod or mp3 player, visit Tourcaster.

The Trevi fountain, or Fontana di Trevi, is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, Italy. The fountain is placed at the juncture of three roads, hence the name tre vie. Originally a simple, small basin, Pope Urban VIII commissioned Bernini to design some possible renovations in 1629. When the Pope died, the project was abandoned, and wasn't revisited until 1730. Pope Clement XII commissioned Nicola Salvi for the final fountain, and work began in 1732. Salvi would pass away in 1751, 12 years before the fountain was completed, but Giuseppe Pannini would put the final touches on this amazing work of art.

The main theme behind the fountain is the Taming of the Waters, hence Neptune, the God of Water, placed in the center niche, being guided by Tritons. On either side of Neptune is Abundance, spilling water from her urn, and Salubrity, holding a cup of water from which a snake drinks. Neptune is framed by a triumphal arch, which is usually built to signify a victory in war.

A little-known fact on the "three coins" myth. It has been said, that if one throws three coins with one's right hand over their left shoulder, into the fountain, they would have good luck. This is all well and good, except the original three coins were thrown by three different individuals. The real legend is that, if you throw one coin in the fountain, you are ensured a return trip to Rome, two coins and you will get married, and three coins ensures divorce.