Tag Archives: Rome

Exploring Rome’s Fascinating Monti Neighborhood

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Anchored by some of Rome’s most important monuments and churches, Monti retains its small-neighborhood spirit. Narrow medieval buildings covered in ivy are interposed with grand 18th-century palazzos. In the Monti neighborhood, you will find chic boutiques and quaint housewares stores, well-stocked wine shops, innovative jewelry designers and maybe even a former Italian first lady sitting next to you while you sip your morning cappuccino.  

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Rainy Day Rome Pantheon

Rainy Day in Rome? Five Great Ways to Enjoy the Experience

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Rome is a terrific city during the cooler times of year. Even after summer heat has faded most days will be blue-skied and sunny. On the rare day when thunder rumbles and the skies open, we have a few suggestions on how to enjoy a rainy day.  Storms usually roll through fast and fierce in Rome, so be ready to dash inside if the sky turns dark. It is a good idea to carry a compact lightweight umbrella with you, but if you forget,  just look around, you will see a vendor with an armful of inexpensive ones for sale and you will be prepared for a rainy day in Rome.

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Trevi Fountain Rome

A Guide to the Fountains in Rome and Why You Shouldn’t Miss them

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In a city of stunning and ancient architecture, it really says something that the fountains in Rome stand out on their own as beautiful attractions. The fountains are not only architectural marvels, but also gathering places for locals, settings for street musicians and the perfect places to relax with an after-dinner gelato. There are also little fountains scattered throughout Rome that are meant to be used for drinking water (these are called “nasone”), where travelers can fill up water bottles. So make sure to have a bottle with you as you’re wandering around.

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Discovering the Jewish Quarter and Piazza Mattei in Rome

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When we say that the Jewish Quarter or Ghetto is one of the oldest parts of the city of Rome, that’s really saying something considering Rome was founded in 700 BC. The Roman Jewish community has had a presence in the city for over 2,000 years, making it the oldest Jewish community in Europe! This is a historically significant and intriguing neighborhood where you find famous plaza, Piazza Mattei, which is home to one of the most beloved fountains in the city: the Turtle Fountain.

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Architects at War – Bernini versus Borromini

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While strolling through Rome, it’s impossible to miss the city’s elaborate and delightful Baroque architecture and art. Much like Florence is the showcase of Renaissance architecture, Rome is a jewel box of Baroque design. Of course, you’ll find a little of everything on display in the Eternal City, including buildings and ruins that span centuries and styles from 2,000 years ago to the most modern. Yet Rome’s Baroque architecture and fountains are among its most appealing sights. Continue reading Architects at War – Bernini versus Borromini →