Kidnapping of Edgardo Mortara

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Plan of Rome, 1220-1340, which lays out St. Peter's, the Pantheon (look in the center) and other landmarks.

An engraving, from 1555, of St. Peter's (depicting the basilica under construction, before the dome was finished). The church was a gathering place even then.

Rome's famous Piazza di Spagna, with the Spanish Steps.

Bologna is known for the warm red of its buildings and for its towers. Its two towers (Due Torri) symbolize the city.

One of Rome's splendid monuments is dedicated to Victor Emanuel II.

Visitors from all over the world visit Michelangelo's Moses, at San Pietro in Vincoli.

The current Pope's private study at the Vatican.

St. Peter's Basilica is located on the site of an ancient chariot-racing stadium. Its papal altar, which was consecrated in 1594, includes a canopy (called the Baldacchino) designed by Bernini.  It is said that the altar is positioned directly over the ancient tomb of St. Peter.

Most of Rome's famous artists (from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries) were involved with the building and decorating of St. Peter's.