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Italy’s 5 most amazing ancient Roman sites
The Romans helped to shape the world, and their legacy lives on in arts and culture throughout Italy. For a truly enjoyable holiday, don’t miss these unique ancient treasures.
◆Rome
A city threaded with historic treasures, Italy’s capital is a live spot recalling Roman life. The Colosseum (古罗马竞技场) is a wonderful landmark; As the world’s largest theatre, the 70000 capacity venue impresses with sheer size. Nearby, the Roman Forum reminds you of the center to the Empire: remains of temples, political buildings and even an ancient water system have survived.
◆Pompeii
Pompeii, struck by the eruption of the Mount Vesuvius, is an archaeological victory. Theatres, baths, villas and temples make up the complex flattened by ash and stones in 79 AD, leaving behind a snapshot of the past.
◆Ostia Antica
Rome’s ancient port city is a freeze frame of early AD life. Originally founded to defend the mouth of the River Tiber, it later became a trading post for grain, oil and wine. As the river changed course, river mud choked the settlement.
◆Hadrian’s Villa, Tivoli
A showy display of power and wealth, Emperor Hadrian’s 2nd century AD villa (别墅) is a flashy five-star pad. Stone baths made use of hot springs can be seen and a pool with splendid statues showing imperial conquests(帝国征服） was a favourite place for summer baths.
◆Capua Amphitheatre
Romans loved to watch a bloody battle. Capua’s theatre has a larger Roman cousin, the Colosseum. Underground, the galleries, and tunnels are in much better condition, making it easy to imagine the days when the slaves fought from this site.
21. Which site will make a visitor interested if he is keen on archaeology?
A. The Pompeii. B. The Roman Forum.
C. Roman temples. D. Political buildings.
22. Why did Emperor Hadrian have his villa built?
A. To show imperial conquests. B. To attract power and wealth.
C. To show off his power and wealth. D. To protect the fruit of imperial conquests.
23. What do Colosseum and Capua Amphitheatre have in common?
A. They are the same in size.
B. They are places where the slaves had to fight for their lives.
C. They were founded to defend the mouth of the River Tiber.
D. They were both struck by the eruption of the Mount Vesuvius.
