Big City Tales

When in Rome… | December 29, 2011

…do as the Romans do, or so the saying goes! 

Thus, on a hot and humid Saturday afternoon, that means hitting the streets and roaming about with the masses. Along the way, be prepared to stop and gawk at an impressive array of spectacular Roman ruins and to part with some Euros as you indulge in gelato not once, not twice, but three times (did I mention it was hot, and did I mention it was Rome?); as you partake of the most basic, but oh so delicious slice of pizza imaginable; and, as you shop in the discount designer stores and bargain with gypsy vendors along the street – both resulted in purchases of little black dresses, what more could a girl want?

Yes, Rome has a lot to offer and exploring it on foot revealed one historical masterpiece and visual delight after another.

If you toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain legend has it that you will one day return to Rome!

The cascading water in the Trevi Fountain can be heard for blocks, but when you’re traipsing through narrow side streets it’s not immediately apparent where the noise is emanating from until you round a corner and it suddenly appears out of nowhere in all its grandeur and gurgling glory.  Truly, this is one of the most gorgeous fountains to be found anywhere in the world and is a definite must-see that will undoubtedly produce a few more than fine Kodak moments.

Here are some other Rome highlights:

The Pope’s window where he delivers public blessings from on Sundays.

Exterior shot of the Vatican Museum.

The Colosseum’s south side was damaged by an earthquake.

The Arch of Constantine celebrates just one of many Roman war victories over the centuries.

A small portion of the Pantheon not under restoration.

The dome of St. Peter’s Basilica.

The Fountain of Four Rivers in Piazza Navona.

Some of the imperial ruins along the road to the Colosseum.

Ceiling detail at St. Peter’s Basilica.

Roof detail at St. Peter’s Basilica.

Close-up detail of one of the many sculptures that adorn the Trevi Fountain.