Symposium on Cultural Diplomacy in Italy

"Italian Cultural Diplomacy"

(Rome; June 12th - 14th, 2013)
The Symposium is hosted by President Francesco Rutelli

Cultural & Historic Excursions in Rome

The spectacular city of Rome, Italy offers iconic history, a rich culture, beautiful scenery, and captivating museums. Throughout the "Symposium on Cultural Diplomacy in Italy," participants will have the opportunity to visit some of the main cultural, political, and historic landmarks in the capital city Italy. Attractions will include:

Vatican City

Vatican City, home of the Pope, is the spiritual center for millions of Roman Catholics across the world. The Vatican hosts some of Rome’s most popular and most beautiful attractions. The small state is encapsulated by the city of Rome, and attracts millions of visitors every year. At the heart of the Vatican City is the stunning St. Peters Basilica, which is renowned for its renaissance architecture. Although the Vatican City is the smallest recognized independent state, spanning just 0.44 sq km, the small state has much to offer.   

Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain is the most famous, and arguably most beautiful, fountains in Rome. Work on the Baroque style fountain was completed in 1762, and provides the historic center of Rome with water from the Salone Springs. The central figure of the fountain represents Neptune, the God of the Sea. Legend also has it that if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the waters of the fountain, you will one day return to Rome.

The Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps climb the steep slope from the Piazza di Spagna to the Piazza Trinita dei Monti, and the beautiful Trinita dei Monti Church. The iconic set of 135 steps was built between 1723-1725, using the designs of the architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi. The Spanish Steps are a vibrant meeting place for young and old, and tourists as well as Italians. 

The Pantheon

The Pantheon, a temple dedicated to all gods, was built more than 1800 years ago, and magnificently captures the grandeur of the Great Roman Empire. The central attraction of the Pantheon is the impressive 43 meter high dome, which contains a large opening at the center, known as the the oculus, which provides the only source of light in the building. The temple also contains the tombs of the famous painter Raphael and that of several Italian Kings.