These colorful snapshots from the 1890s offer a lively look at Rome’s everyday life and historic sites. While the city was just starting to experience modern changes like horse-drawn carriages and new engineering marvels, it still boasted its ancient glory.
Imagine cobblestone streets near the Pantheon and famous spots like the Roman Forum and Trevi Fountain, all shown without the usual throngs of tourists.
Though these images might seem like standard photographs, they’re actually created using a technique called Photochrom. This method added bright, precise colors to black-and-white photos, bringing the past to life in vivid detail.
Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the city of Rome entered a new era known as the Middle Ages. By the 8th century, Rome had come under the control of the Papacy and became the capital of the Papal States, a role it maintained until 1870.
During the Renaissance, popes embarked on an ambitious architectural and urban project that spanned over four centuries. Their goal was to transform Rome into the world's leading artistic and cultural hub.
Rome flourished as a major Renaissance center and went on to birth the Baroque style and Neoclassicism. Artists, painters, sculptors, and architects flocked to the city, leaving behind a wealth of masterpieces.
By the late 19th century, Rome had become a sought-after destination. Its ancient ruins captivated romantics who were drawn to the city’s rich history and beauty.
For students and art enthusiasts, Rome served as an open-air museum, blending ancient ruins with Christian and modern landmarks.
These stunning color photos from the Photochrom collection at the Library of Congress beautifully showcase Rome's timeless allure. They highlight the city's lasting charm and rich history.
Favored by travelers, these images were commonly turned into postcards or displayed publicly, preserving the essence of Rome’s landmarks and daily life.
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