Rome is the capital city of Italy. It is also the country’s largest and most populated commune and fourth-most populous city in the European Union by population within city limits. Rome was founded in 753 B.C. by Romulus. . It is referred to as “Roma Aeterna” (The Eternal City) and “Caput Mundi” (Capital of the World), two central notions in ancient Roman culture. Rome is the only city in the world to contain in its interior a whole state; the enclave of Vatican City, and also has a status of the global city. Rome has the biggest and most populated metropolis hosting 2.9 million residents within an area of 1,285 square km. The city is one of Europe’s and the world’s most successful city “brands”, both in terms of reputation and assets.

Italy has a large and international network of public and state affiliated universities and schools offering degrees in higher education. State-run universities of Italy constitute the main percentage of tertiary education in Italy, and are managed under the supervision of Italian's Ministry of Education. Italian universities are among the oldest universities in the world. In particular the University of Bologna (founded in 1088) and the University of Padua, founded in 1222, are the oldest state universities in Europe. According to the City Brands Index, Rome is considered the world’s second most historically, educationally and culturally interesting and beautiful city.

Universities and Research Centres in Rome:

• University of Padova
• Pavia University in Italy
• European Research Council
• Sapienza University of Rome
• European Science Foundation
• Tor Vergata University in Rome
• The American University of Rome
• European molecular biology laboratory

Rome is a historical powerhouse with wonderful palaces, millennium-old churches, grand romantic ruins, opulent monuments and museums such as the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum, ornate statues and graceful fountains, Rome has an immensely rich historical heritage and cosmopolitan atmosphere, making it one of Europe's and the world's most visited, famous, influential and beautiful capitals. Today, Rome has a growing nightlife scene and is also seen as a shopping heaven, being regarded as one of the fashion capitals of the world (some of Italy's oldest jewellery and clothing establishments were founded in the city).

Rome enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Rome’s average temperature in June is around 81° F 20°C, and gradually reaches up to 23°C-24°C as the month progresses. The pleasant climate of Rome favours heavy tourist footfall in the city throughout the year.