Blog - Life in Italy

Villa Doria Pamphili is one of the greatest historical Roman villas. Located on the Gianicolo hill, in an area contiguous the Mura Aureliane's wall, is delimited in a side from one of the ancient tracks, Via Aurelia Antica, which runs parallel to the Acquedotto Traiano Paolo. Nowadays it is the prefered destination for jogging and bicycle lovers and is a short distance from the city centre.

The Quattro Venti arch represents the main entry and it is placed in Porta San Pancrazio. The most important building of the park is Villa del Bel Respiro, so named for his elevated position and the healthy air you could and still can breathe. The sumptuousness of rooms and gardens got the Gouvernament choose it as representative building to receive prime ministers. Villa Doria Pamphili hosts besides the Casa dei Teatri, in Villino Corsini, the ideal place for everyone searching peace and tranquillity for his study.

The Casino del Bel Respiro was ideated by the sculptor Algardi. Inside it has numerous rooms and halls embellished by painted stuccos. Outside it is possible to admire the Giardino Segreto composed by tangled labyrinths of hedges. In the 1800's the Villa was the teather of one of the most bloody battles for the defence of the Roman Republic: the french troops of Napoleon III occupied Villa Corsini and the strife with the garibaldians was inevitable. Towards the half-century the Casino del Bel Respiro was turned into a big agricultural estate. Only after 1870 it was maded over to Roman municipality and became a public park.

There are many fountains in this park, realized thanks to the presence of the Roman aqueduct, that was restructured by Paolo V at the end of XIV century. With regard to it we can cite the Giglio's Fountain. Starting from this fountain a canal spreads in lenght until his waters flow together to the lake called del Belvedere, surrounded by weeping willows. The purpose of Pamphili family was to try to repeat the prestige of the villa which belonged to the Imperator Adrian nearby Tivoli.

The aim has been achieved. The architecural and naturalistic beauties have contributed to make Villa Pamphili the most beautiful park amid the ones that alleviate the urban impact of the big city. Usually the tourists who come to the capital are used to visit Villa Borghese at their arrival, being this even more central. Well, we hope this article could change your preconception.

Be ready. The visit of the whole park will take you half day due to the huge expanse. It is possible to distinguish two macro areas, the former we talked about is the first. The other is the one with the pond, in the depths of wihich is pleasant to make out a various acquatic fauna. The  two parts are cut across lenghtwise by the Olimpica street, even if lately a raised bridge, a pedestrian passage, has been built to connect the two areas.

It remains to wish you a good stroll. If you are a little more athtletic you will be spoilt for choice about running routes. You will have available even a jogging spot (via Vitellia, angolo via Leone XIII) where you will be able to find shower units, dressing rooms and facilities. Good run!

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Would you like to spend some time far from the city's noise and traffic? Why not consider a stroll through a fairy-tale place like Garbatella? This unique destination is so magical that you will feel engulfted in its unforgettable charm.

It was founded in the 1920's and was laid out to host workers from other parts of Italy. For this reason the first houses were built with  vegetable gardens so that the new residents could cultivate the food they needed. The initial style adopted to build the housing units, including connecting courtyards and ladders, known as a "barocchetto", was both elegant and refined. Visitors will find that, using the ladders to go back and forth and passing under the beautiful archways, is a pleasure all by itself.

Under Mussolini's regime, however, typical fascist buildings began to be built. This architecture can be characterised as monumental, rigorous and severe, almost to the point of disturbing the observer. An example of this rationalist expression can be seen clearly in the Cesare Battisti primary school with its Imperial eagles and the open-work bell tower. Observing this school building one is easily reminded of the dictatorship which lasted twenty years.

The strangest impression that strikes the visitor strolling through the famous roman quarter, known as well for its frequent use as a set for various TV series and movies, is the feeling, even more than in Rome, of being in a little village frozen in time. As you continue on your way, you will notice that the families here are used to gathering in the courtyards chatting in the open air and the women, returning home with shopping bags in hand, have that typical good-natured Roman look. Life in general moves along slowly and peacefully.

If you want a taste of roman life, the one old and genuine, a stroll through Garbatella is a "must". There you will encounter truly Roman people, who speak a roman dialect and demostrate the easy-going behaviour of the real Romans. A local symbol of this Roman-ness is Carlotta's fountain where young couples gather to drink of this water before the fateful kiss.

If you pass under Via Rublino's arch which is next to the Saint Isidoro and Saint Eurosia's church, the so called "chiesoletta", an obligatory stay for pilgrims of the seven churches, and walk along this green and quiet road, you will soon arrive at Piazza G. Sapeto within a few steps, one of the most fascinating squares of the district, going down the steps to your right, you can easily reach the above-quoted fountain for people in love.

Nanni Moretti,* in his movie Caro Diario, cites Garbatella as the dstrict he likes most and we are right to believe it. From his vespa, he points out the most impressive corners, which strike us with their unmistakable beauty. You will feel the same emotions that are stirred by scenes in his movie.

- How to get to Garbatella: Coming from Termini station, take the metro linea B, Laurentina direction, and get off at Garbatella stop.

*Nanni Moretti is one of Italy's most original and indipendent film directors. His movies are full of sense of humor and very interesting if you want to know a little more about italian society.

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The Hadrian’s Villa resides in Tivoli – a picturesque town 17 miles distant from Rome.

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When: from 22 may to 13 september 2009

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Rome is a big city and rich of art and history at every corner, although you can easily walk all the top attractions in the city center of Rome it could be tiring after a while.

Bus Tours are a great way to explore the city in relax with an extensive hop-on hop-off itinerary through the heart of Rome. You can get off at any stop, take a walk of the area and then hop on the next bus at no additional cost for the validity of your ticket (1-2 days).

The buses are open top which allows you to enjoy full 360 degree panoramic views as you travel along your route.

This is a very family friendly service and is also a very good idea to jump start your vacation and get acquainted with the city, attractions, places and distances. Just have a tour, see what Rome has to offer, get off at your favourite place if you can't resist :) or take the whole loop and carefully choose your next top attraction to visit.

There are many different companies (up to 7) that operate very similar core routes around the Rome sights.
Although all tours are loops where you can start at any point, nearly all operators start at Termini Station the main central station of Rome, connected to both metro lines A and B.

Generally you have the choice of a 24 or 48 hours ticket with which to make use of the 12 to 20 stops in the most beautiful, cultural and evocative areas of the Eternal city. The tours operate 365 days per year.

Open Top Buses
All of the buses are open-top and equipped with a personalized throwaway audio system which functions more than 8 languages languages, providing recorded commentary throughout the tour. Ofter there is also an English and Italian speaking host onboard each bus to assist with any queries. You will be provided with a set of earphones which you keep and use for the duration of your ticket.

Itinerary
The itinerary usually goes from Termini Station passing the Colosseum and Roman Forum then Circus Maximus and along the River Tiber, where you can walk over to Trastevere. Then back again to the other end of the Roman Forum and then Piazza Venezia. From Piazza Venezia it stop along the way near the Piazza Navona and Pantheon and then straight to the Vatican crossing the River Tiber.
After the Vatican most buses will route through the Villa Borghese, Via Vittorio Veneto, Piazza Barberini, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Then back to Termini. Check out the travel map for the specific bus operator of your choice for the detailed route.

Ticketing and Prices
Prices are between 15€ and 20€ for a 1-day ticket and between 23€ and 25€ for a 2-day ticket
Average time for a complete tour and about 2 hours total time departing about every 15-30 minutes usually between 9am to 6pm (last departure from Termini station)
Most operators offer a discounted fare for children aged 6 to 12 years old.

Major Rome Bus Tour Companies

• Open Tour '110 Open'

• City Sightseeing
  

• Green Line

• Ciao Roma
  
• Roma Christiana
• Archeobus
  

A couple of  them are more 'thematic' than the others and specifically:

- Roma Christiana in addition to the standard route has an extended tour that visits many Basilicas to the south of the city, Baths of Caracalla and is the only bus that visits Trastevere itself, even going up the hill behind Trastevere with great views down on the city.
- ArcheoBus goes through the centre of Rome and then along the famous Park of Via Appia Antica, and the Christian catacombs stopping at many of the major archaeological sites.

Enjoy your tour!

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Piazza del Campidoglio, or Capitol Hill, is one of the seven hills on which the legend says Rome was founded.

Located on top of the homonymous Capitoline Hill it is a precious Michelangelo’s architectural design.
The staircase, the interweaved ellipsis pavement, the Marco Aurelio’s antique bronze are some of the most well known attractions in Rome.

The Palace of Senate, situated in Piazza del Campidoglio, is as of today the representative seat of the Rome City hall. It was built in the early XII century on top of the remaining ruins of two ancient roman’s buildings (“Temple Veiove”- 196 b.c. erected in honor of an ancient Italian divinity - and “Tabularium” - 78 b.c. the ancient roman archive). It took part to the widest Michelangelo’s Project in the early XIII century and got renewed in 1561.

The Palace of Senate began holding the first city hall representation in 1143 becoming indeed the seat of the first 50 senators administrating the civil and penal lows.

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What's happening in Rome all year round!... Find out here

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in January - Rome
• Epiphany – “Befana” in Italian, is a religious holiday held on January 6th.There is also an Epiphany Fair held in the Piazza Navona with small rides for the children to ride and stands with games to play.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in February - Rome
• Ash Wednesday - Late February, many local romans celebrated this religious holiday. The Pope walks from the Basilica of Santa Sabina to the Circus Maximus, accompanied by members of the College of Cardinals.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in March - Rome
• Festival of St. Francesca - Early March, local romans drive their cars to the Piazzale del Colosseo, near the Church of Santa Francesca for blessing and prosperity.
• Feast of St. Joseph - People celebrate St. Joseph holiday by going to the Trionfale Square  to eat a traditional roman type of doughnut-pastry called “Cimabela”!
• Maratona della Citta di Roma (Marathon) – Held every year in late March. This marathon is watched by crowds of people (locals and tourists) as the athletes run past by many of the city's spectacular landmarks and beautiful churches.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in April - Rome
• Festa della Primavera (Spring Festival) – It takes place early April highliting the beauty of all corners of Rome. The most commonly known area where this colorful special event takes place is the Spanish Steps. These amazing steps are decorated with azalea plants and concerts are held on top of the steps in Trinita dei Monti.
• Good Friday – During early April, in the evening the Pope leads a Procession of the Cross from the Colosseum  garden to the Roman Forum.  Take part or simply admire the parade of people following this amazing site.
• Easter – This year follows on April 12th, 2009. A memorable outdoor mass takes place in St. Peter's Square in the morning listening very carefully to the pope. There are more than 20,000 seats available for anyone who wants to attend.  At the end, the Pope then blesses the crowd at noon. I do advise to go early for seating.
• Easter Monday – On April 13th, (long weekend) most locals go away to the country side and spend a relax three day weekend. In Rome however, in Castel Sant'Angelo gardens many celebrations are held to the public.
• Live Concerts – All throughout the month of April, the Accademia Filarmonica Romana performs regularly at the Teatro Olimpico to the public. If you are into music, this is a great place to go see.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in May - Rome
• Introducing new Vatican Guard – On May 6th 2009 an event will be held swearing in of the new guard at the Vatican on the anniversary for the Sacking of Rome.
• Tennis – In the middle of May, the tennis Masters Series Roma start at the Parco del Foro Italico 
• Live Concerts – All throughout the month of April, the Accademia Filarmonica Romana performs regularly at the Teatro Olimpico to the public. If you are into music, this is a great place to go see.
• Chamber and symphony concerts - throughout May, the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia performs at the Via della Conciliazione, near Castle Sant’Angelo and Vatican St. Peter’s square.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in June - Rome
• Festa della Republica – On the first Sunday in June, this incredible military parade takes place on Via dei Fori Imperiali between the Colosseum and Piazza di Venezia. The street closes becoming an event where Italy celebrates their republic day.
• Saint Peter and Paul Day – During late June, solemn masses are held at St. Peter's Basilica (Vatican) and also all over Rome during this holiday.
• Pesaro Film Festival – In late June, also known as the International Exhibition of New Cinema – (hyperlink), works of recent/old films of new directors and also other recognitions from many countries around the world.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in July - Rome
• 4th of July –An American holiday also celebrated by Italians in Rome  in the company of other Americans. It includes picnics, fireworks and many other fun activities.
• Spoleto Festival – Held in early July held in Spoleto.  This festival presents top-quality concerts, opera, dance, theatre and film for all tastes.
• Operas and Ballets – During the whole month of July and early August, some of the best local Opera singers and ballets dancers perform regularly at Teatro dell'Opera, Piazza Beniamino Gigli. If you are in Rome, do not miss a show.
• Noianti Festival – From middle to late July there will be folk music, dancing, stands all of kinds selling goods and fireworks display in Trastevere.  Fun activities for the whole family in honour of the Virgin Carmine.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in August - Rome
• Festa della Madonna della Neve – On  August 5th, open-air film festival held at Santa Maria Maggiore church.
• Ferragosto (The Assumption) – A very traditional holiday held every August 15th,  the mid-summer Roman holiday. Many locals take this holiday and go away to their country home outside the city of Rome or the beaches.  On this day, you will not see many locals around as you will also notice many places are closed.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in September - Rome
• Crafts show – Takes place late September in Via dell'Orso. A must see!

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in October - Rome

• No activities

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in November - Rome
• All Saints' Day – Only once a year in early November, all churches will be open to the public for visitors.
• Unity Day – It represents World War I and Armed Forces Day. A unique ceremony takes place at the Tomb of the “Unknown Soldier” at Piazza Navona Held in November.  Really nice site!
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in December - Rome - Rome
• Feast of the Immaculate Conception - Early December, the Pope places flowers at the column of the Virgin in Piazza di Spagnathis religious holiday.
• St. Stephen's Day - December 26th, many Romans visit nativity scenes, decorated churches with Christmas spirit throughout Rome on this public holiday… very popular day in Rome. An excellent day to visit and look inside all the beautiful churches in Rome.
• New Year's Eve - December 31st, masses are celebrated in churches all over Rome. There are also many parties and general celebrations in public places, restaurants and also in homes of family and friends.

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One of the best example of modern architecture in Rome is, on my opinion, the Renzo Piano's "Auditorium Parco della Musica", a large multi-function public music complex.

Unfortunately, this wonderful construction is located out of the historic centre, in the north side of Rome, so tourists generally miss it.

Opened in 2002, Auditorium Parco della Musica combines architectural innovation with perfect acoustics. The complex is composed of three separate enormous bug-like halls whose forms are inspired by musical instruments. A fourth concert hall is the open air theater evoking Greco-Roman theaters.

The three  large concert halls are structurally separated to assure soundproofing. Each one has a different dimension and purpose, but they are all characterized by an extreme versatility of the space: floor and ceiling can be moved to regulate the acoustic properties. Also the cherry-wood interiors guarantee an excellent sound.

The complex includes museums, a fantastic library, music studios, areas for exhibitions, cafes, restaurants, gardens and an archaeological site. Have a look to the events calendar: it hosts big international names in classical, rock, pop and world music.

Auditorium (http://www.auditorium.com ) is open daily from 10am to 6pm and the entrance is free! It is easy reachable by bus number 910 from Rome's train station (Stazione Termini). Ortherwise, if you're interested on any of the events, a shuttle bus M service departs from Stazione Termini every 15 minutes between 17:00 and the end of the last performance.

I encourage you to visit the Auditorium!! ....also for a good drink or meal at the charming "Red" cocktail lounge bar where you can absolutely spend a pleasant afternoon :)

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Ristorante La Caravella: This restaurant serves great cuisine, mostly known for its excellent service and ambience. Quality is tremendous but quite expensive. They serve large portions and you will get your money's worth considering the price range in Venice. Good choice for picky eaters.

Osteria Da Fiore: If you enjoy Italian food and specially the Venitian Seafood Delicatesse, then you must visit Osteria Da Fiore!!... It's cooked simply to perfection, allowing the freshness of the seafood come through. The scampi (my favorite) and the "Moleche" (soft shell crab from Veneto) is delicious and ligh. The "Alghe" pasta (Colored Green is homemade with spinach) deliciously combined with fresh mussels. If you have a chance, buy their book... you can make Fiore dishes at home for yourself. Cuisines: European, Italian, Seafood

I Figli Delle Stelle (Giudecca):   Located on the Giudecca Canal, overlooking a sensational sunset, the lights of the city and all the boats going by. Most recommended dishes are the Little ears (pasta) in tomato sauce, and the Rissoto, simple but delicious. Seating is available on the banks of the Lagoon providing a romantic ambience and atmosphere. Only open 5 months out of the year. In May they make their own "Lemoncello". Cuisines: Italian, Mediterranean.

Alle Testiere (Castello):  It's run by two young men, a very small place near Campo Formossa in Venice. The menu is small and everything is fresh mainly serving seafood. It is an incredible little find - 22 seats, 2 seatings per table. You must book preferably for the 9.00 pm slot, otherwise, risk waiting in line. These logistics are important because despite the intimate and very friendly nature of this restaurant, it is absolutely professional. At Alla Testiere, the food was sublime, generous and passionate. The dishes are creative but not overdone. Closed in August.

Al Marca (Santa Croce): Located in the San Polo/Santa Croce area is known to locals and many tourists along the years to be the place of the best sanduiches, aperitifs in Venice. The prosciutto is a must have in this place. Try the spritz!

Cipriani (Giudecca): Known for exquisite menu and very expensive!  It provides a beautiful view of Venice as you dine offering a great ambience and comfort.

Met Restaurant: Just steps away from the main strip was this little quiet garden area with lovely plants, flowers and trickling fountain. Beautifully decorated with a calming garden dining area. A perfect place to step away from the chaos of San Marco Square area. It was charming, relaxing, excellent service, delicious food beautifully presented. Cuisines: Italian, Contemporary.

Vini da Gigio (Cannaregio): Lovely restaurant a stone's throw from S.Felice Vaporetto stop. It has tables by the windows looking out onto the canal. The portions are generous for Venetian standard, specializing in Venetian cuisine (both fish and meat varieties). It's very hard to find, even when you have the address. I would recommend booking in advance.

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Epiphany in Italian,   "La Festa dell'Epifania" on January 6th is as a significant holiday as  Christmas Day in Italy; especially for Italian children! According to the Italian legend, "La Befana", a witch-like woman riding on a broom, refused to join the Wise Men on their journey to see the baby Jesus. When she regrets her decision, she sets out to bring gifts to the Child but never finds him. Instead, she leaves gifts for other children. Italian children leave out their shoes or put up stockings for the "Befana" to fill them with presents on January 6^th. In honour of the Three Wise Men, Italians go to church and spend the day with family. Following the Epiphany, the long, festive Italian holiday season comes to a close. This beautiful site and glamour atmosphere is most lively and be witnessed in the largest square of Rome, Piazza Navona. You will see the Befana represented in many forms at the Christmas Market in Piazza Navona, and also during the Epiphany parade of colourful characters and floats leading up to the Vatican.

Try one of our many vacation rental apartments in Rome. The key to Italy.com is a specialist english-speaking apartment rental agency based in the center of Rome, and catering to English--speaking tourists from countries all over the world.

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