By Luisa Potenza
Italy is putting its best foot forward for tourists in 2012.
In Rome, the Colosseum has been given a thorough restoration. For the first time tours to restricted areas are being offered, including underground passageways and the third-floor parapet. A 90-minute tour arranged a day ahead is available now by booking with ePierrici, a private company. The house of Livia, home of the wife of Emperor Augustus, located at Rome's Palatine Hill is now open to guided tours. Rare wall paintings and newly restored frescoes make the visit worthwhile. And at St. Peter's Basilica, the tomb of Pope John Paul II has been moved to the Chapel of San Sebastian, on the main floor of the basilica.
In Venice, the three-year restoration of The Bridge of Sighs has been completed. Scaffolding around the base of the Campanile, the dramatic bell tower on St. Mark's Square, remains for the time being.
In Florence, the city now offers a new sightseeing pass called the Florence Card, costing 50 euro. Tourists now avoid the hassle of making reservations for the top sights, such as the Uffizi and Accademia galleries. The card also covers free use of city buses. And the Galileo Science Museum, which was under restoration for years, is now ready to be visited.
And in Cinque Terre, two of the most popular towns visited by tourists but hard hit by the latest earthquake, are also bouncing back. Both Vernazza and Monterosso and their access roads were heavily damaged but Monterosso will be accessible in the spring of this year. Repairs to the road leading to Vernazza will take longer.
