Tour Rome in 2-5 Days

Morning breaks again, after another Chianti infused night in Rome and fortunately for some of you, there is still more time left to enjoy the wonders of this city.  Hop a bus or if you still haven’t quite found your legs take a taxi down to Piazza Venezia. This square is one of the major organs in the traffic system in Rome, giving rise to major arteries such as  Via del Corso, Via Nazionale and Via dei Fori Imperiali. The main attraction is the imposing and impressive Vittorio Emmanuele II monument.

Il Vittoriano

Dominating the skyline in this bustling square, the austere white monument towers above all surrounding buildings. Its statues, which feature the goddess Victoria, stand nearly 30ft high – beckoning you for a closer look. The long black gate which is usually guarded by one of Italy’s armed forces the Carabinieri, opens at 9am allowing you to climb the numerous steps to the top of the monument.  Before hastening inside however, there is the solemn and constantly guarded, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, eternally accompanied by a flame.  Pictures may be taken here, in front of the tomb, at a respectable distance away from it and the centuries posted nearby. The walk to the top may be a bit trying for some but is definitely worth the effort.     Once inside, one can undertake the stairway climb to the uppermost part of the building.  From this magnificent vantage point there is a painstakingly beautiful vista dotted with the domes of churches and crisscrossed with the tight gridlock road system.  It is a not to be missed view of the city.   There is  also a museum (on the ground floor) which hosts various exhibits throughout the year but it is definitely not on our top list of things to do here in Rome.

Bocca della Verita

Walking from the Piazza Venezia to The Mouth of Truth, on your right hand side you will pass the Marcellus theatre, which bares a slight resemblance to the Colosseum. This open- air theatre was completed in 13 BC and held around 11,000 spectators. It was the sight of many performances of drama and song in ages past. Continuing along the same street will bring you to the Mouth of Truth made famous by the film Roman Holiday. The marble face with mouth agape, which is found in the portico of Santa Maria of Cosmedin, supposedly bites off the hands of those who are lying. There is usually a fast moving queue, and provides a fun photo moment.

Circus Maximus

Almost literally behind the Mouth of Truth, is the Circus Maximus.  Now what remains is an oblong field, used by modern day Romans for jogging, pic-nicking and dog walking. Its real purpose was for the hosting of the largest chariot races in the Roman Empire, accommodating nearly 250,000 people. The field itself was the track, but the vastness and intricacies of the architectural plan can no longer be appreciated fully, as years of looting and disuse has reduced it to what you see today. It makes a wonderful place to rest your weary legs before setting off to the Jewish Ghetto.

The Jewish Ghetto

Though the word ghetto might bring to mind images of poverty and squalor rest assured what we recommend is none of the sort. From the history of segregation and separation has emerged one of the most charming and characteristically ecclectic neighbourhoods of Rome. The ghetto, a word finding origins in Venice, was created in 1555 on order of then Pope – Paul IV to isolate the Jewish community living in Rome at the time. In 1798 the ghetto was abolished during the time of non- Papal rule but reinstated quickly after the Papacy regained control. Many years have passed but this tiny neighbourhood in Rome made up only of a few streets, has remained the heart and soul of the Jewish community still living in the city. Some of the best restaurants to be found in the city, serving traditional Roman cuisine are found here along with shops selling Kosher meats and products.

Tiber Island

The island is the only one in the main river of Rome and has long been associated with healing.  Quite fittingly, a hospital has been built there.  The island is connected to the mainland by two bridges, one the oldest in the city of Rome – Fabricius’ Bridge.  The second Cestius’ Bridge connects the island to the neighbourhood of Trastevere. There is not really much to see on the island itself, except in the summer months when it hosts the free open -air cinema festival.

Trastevere

Trastevere, literally meaning “across the river”, is our favourite neighbourhood in Rome. Everything about this area has old world Roman charm. From the numerous cobble stones, to the ecclectic stores selling the most unusual items this is the place to while away an evening. Be aware that wearing thin-heeled shoes in this area of Rome, will in no way enhance your experience, serving only to hinder your enjoyment and those around you. Roman women have had years of practice and nimbly walk on each stone as if gliding from lilly pad to lilly pad. Definitely explore! We live in Rome and we still have not discovered every nook and cranny of this winding area. We have found some restaurants with space for 40 outside while turning the corner we peer into one with 10 diners downstairs. Our absolute all time favourite restaurants and bars are found in the food section, and many nights have found us singing in the streets floating home on the wings of Limoncello.
Santa Maria in Trastevere is the queen of churches in Trastevere and is one of the oldest in Rome. We recommend taking a look inside as there are extraordinarily well preserved frescoes dating back to the 13th century and mosaics with colours just as rich as when they were first done. Mass may be in progress so be respectful in both your dress and conduct as it remains a favourite place of worship for many.
There are many shops selling everything from couture shoes made out of recycled materials to bookstores selling chocolate infused drinks. Trastevere invites you to unlock the secrets hidden amongst the cluster of tight alleyways, allowing you to find that precious treasure to add to your chest of memories.

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