Piazza Navona
If you find yourself
in Rome, try to avoid the major tourist attractions which are packed with
people, and instead take a walk through the ancient streets. It's
amazing what treasures you can find along the way.
I've been fortunate to visit Rome several times, but it's been a
while and I had forgotten what an amazing city it is. People
complain that it's dirty and crowded, and maybe it is, but it still has so much
charm and beauty, that for me it became irrelevant.
I did want to see the Trevi Fountain again, so I walked from my
hotel near Termini train station in that general direction. I had
all the time in the world, so as I walked and saw something of interest, I followed
it making many turns and diversion. I think this is the best way
to discover a city. There are so many great churches, lovely
gardens, quaint restaurants and ancient ruins that you could spend a week just
wandering.
I especially enjoyed the Trastevere area just south of Vatican
City. It's a fun, bohemian area with centuries old buildings, artisan
shops and restaurants. At the centre of this area is the Piazza di Santa Maria,
with the Basilica dating back in parts to the 3rd century. In the
centre of the Piazza is a wonderful fountain, one of so many in the city
where people gather to sit and watch the world go by.
Another piazza that I really love is Piazza Navona, built on the site of a stadium dating
back to the 1st century AD. On my last night there I chose the restaurant in
front of the fountain and sat watching the people as I enjoyed a wonderful
meal. Of course, it's going to be a little more expensive to sit in a
prime location, but it was so beautiful. Sometimes when you travel you
just have to say what the hell! It's worth it.
On the way back, I finally went to the Trevi
Fountain hoping that on a rainy October night at 8pm it may be less busy - but
it wasn't. Maybe going at Midnight would be better?
Completely by accident
on one of my diversions, I stumbled upon the home of Michelangelo’s statue of
Moses housed in the San Pietro in Vincoli church. What a masterpiece that is definitely going
to see.
The neighbourhood of
Monti is another fun place to visit and enjoy the atmosphere, with both
bohemian and classical elements, trattorias, win bars and vintage boutiques are
hidden in the areas pizzas and streets drawing a mix of expats, students and
locals.
Trevi fountain
Micahelangelo's Moses
Trastevere
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