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Rome's Secret Sauce: Uncovering the City's Hidden Mysteries!

Rome's Secret Sauce: Uncovering the City's Hidden Mysteries!

Rome, the Eternal City, has seen it all. From gladiator fights to papal coronations, the city has a rich and storied past. But beneath the surface, there are secrets that have remained hidden for centuries.

Deep beneath the Colosseum, there are winding tunnels and hidden chambers where the gladiators and animals were kept before the battles. It is said that some of the tunnels lead all the way to the Vatican, allowing for secret passage between the two sites.

Rome Colosseum

In the heart of the city, the Pantheon stands as a testament to ancient Roman engineering. But there are whispers that beneath the marble floors lies a hidden room where the emperor Augustus conducted secret meetings.

The Vatican, the seat of the Catholic Church, is also home to many secrets. In the Sistine Chapel, the famous frescoes painted by Michelangelo hide a mysterious symbol that has yet to be deciphered.

 

And in the catacombs beneath the city, there are ancient tombs and underground chapels that have been sealed off for centuries. Who knows what secrets they may contain?

But perhaps the biggest secret of all is the true identity of the city's founder, Romulus. Legend has it that he was raised by wolves and went on to found the city that bears his name. But historians have long debated whether he was a real person or just a myth.

Despite the many secrets that lie hidden beneath its streets, Rome remains a city of wonder and awe. Its ancient ruins and timeless beauty continue to captivate visitors from all over the world.

Brussels, the Center of European Culture and Institutions

Brussels, the Center of European Culture and Institutions

Brussels is one of the finest hidden gems in the European Union. It may not be as popular a destination as the more renowned cities in the continent but it is still worth checking out. Here are the reasons why. Download and install the Brussels Travel Guide and Offline City Map before your visit.

The Markets

Your experience of visiting this busy city won’t be complete if you don’t check out the markets. Anderlecht district’s Clemenceau market is the noisiest and most hectic food market in Brussels where you can get fresh fruits and vegetables, different kinds of cheeses, olives, and other food items. The Place du Jeu de Balle flea market is a tourist favorite. In it you’ll find all sorts of antique items and various kinds of art pieces, books, jewelry, interior design items, and more.

Travel to Brussels with our Travel Guide for iPhone, iPad and AppleWatch

The Parks

Brussels has a plethora of interesting and varied parks. The Jean-Felix Hap’s garden is perfect for those who just want to have some peace and quiet. It is the ideal spot for those who just want to be alone. Parc du Cinquantenaire is a bigger and more crowded park. It has several playgrounds for kids and sporting squares where teens and adults can play sports such as badminton. You can even find a triumphal arch, a car museum, an art, museum, and a history museum in the center of the park. If you just want to enjoy nature then you should check out the Bois de la Cambre. It is a massive park with a lovely lake that has an island at the center.

Peace and quiet in Brussels with eTips Travel Guide for iPhone, iPad and AppleWatch

The Cafés

Brussels is home to numerous great cafés. Ixelles district’s Café Belga is famous for its live music. When the weather is good, the café doors and windows open to give customers an unobstructed view of the outside. Its bestsellers are Belgian beer and peppermint tea. Borgval Street’s Café Central is the most sought-after establishment during weekends when DJs and other live acts perform for the customers. Its bestsellers are its fries and waffles.

For more helpful tips and knowhow, just visit eTips.