2,000-year-old Rome pyramid getting visibility

After a Japanese clothing magnate paid for a cleanup, archaeologists are eager to show off the monument, constructed around 2,000 years ago as the burial tomb for a Roman praetor, or magistrate, named Caius Cestius

The Eternal City celebrates its long history with monuments, churches and restored ruins that offer a glimpse into life during the days of the great Roman Empire.

While The Roman Colosseum is a testament to the architectural skills of the ancient Roman people and offers insight into the culture that celebrated the gladiator games at this huge entertainment arena, and the Forum was the center of city life, playing host to festivals, celebrations, funerals and rituals, the Pyramid will surely reveal some extraordinary insights into the amazing Roman World.

Although soaring 36 meters (119 feet) high, the pyramid has long been ignored by most tourists. Decades of grime blackened the creamy white Carrara marble exterior of the monument near a traffic-clogged intersection near a subway stop. The pyramid's base is lower than street level since Rome has been built up over the centuries, so many don't appreciate the monument's height.

Archaeologist Leonardo Guarnieri told reporters Wednesday that tours, including of the frescoed burial chamber, are given twice monthly upon reservation.