What is it they say??? Rome wasn’t built in a day? How true! This amazing city is so full of history, it’s easy to be overwhelmed with AWE. How is it possible the Romans were able to build these magnificent buildings, statues and monuments without the use of modern day cranes and equipment? It totally blows my mind! Remember 2,000 years ago the name “Rome” meant civilization because everything outside of Rome was barbarian. Each time I visit this city of almost 5 million people, I become more impressed. As Italy’s capital, it’s full of 3,000 years of globally influential art, architecture and culture in every corner. The vibrancy in all the plazas and streets is contagious, but my favorite sites are the ancient ruins… such as the Pantheon , Roman Forum and the Colosseum… they remind you of the power of the Roman Empire. I also cherish every visit to Vatican City, headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church, which houses St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. The sidewalk cafes in every alley offer cappuccinos, pizza and gelatos any time of the day… and often a local musician to entertain you while you sip away.

I could go on for several pages about all our adventures the past few days, but a few come to mind immediately. I wanted to share my a dinner at my favorite restaurant in Rome, Imago..located on the rooftop of the Hotel Hassler. This fabulous hotel (which we couldn’t afford to stay at😜) was built in 1885 at the top of the famous 136 Spanish Steps, as the home of Napoleon’s sister. Audrey Hepburn stayed here while filming ROMAN HOLIDAY. In my opinion, the view from the restaurant is the best in Rome. From the moment you enter the restaurant, you’re treated like royalty. Each table has a team of 4 waiters which equals impeccable service. You’re immediately offered a glass of champagne from the best vineyard in Italy, and then the bite size treats begin. There must have been at least 12-14 courses…I frankly lost count after partaking of an amazing local wine….San Leonardo 2017. Everything we put in our mouths was “squisito” (delicious). Sunset was stunning and throughout the rest of dinner, we were mesmerized by the view of Rome’s Seven Hills shining brightly in the dark of night.

And, what would a visit to Rome be if you missed the history and masterpieces in the Vatican …and most of all the beauty of the Sistine Chapel? The world’s most famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo in early 1500s is an artistic masterpiece every one should see in person to appreciate its beauty. We stood with our mouths open, full of emotion admiring and appreciating the detail and talent dedicated to this historical chapel. St Peters is around the corner and just walking up the steps and seeing where the Pope addresses thousands of Catholics regularly is breathtaking. As you walk up to the church doors…the door on the right is called the “Holy Door” and is only opened every 25 years. This door is bricked up on the inside and on the first day of a Holy Year, the Pope strikes it with a hammer to open it and let the pilgrims come in to make the most of the indulgence.

Exhausted from being on our feet and putting many many steps, we made our way to the nearest street and saw a taxi. Relief flashed in both our faces. But little did we know we were about to get scammed. The guy standing BESIDE the taxi asked us where we needed to go …now mind you it was a 15 min walk to our apt…he quoted us 48 Euros ($55) we said no thanks …he came down to 45 Euros…knowing prices are sky high in this city AND we are so exhausted we say yes…he then proceeds to walk down the street where his car is parked. He pulls up to the corner and we get in…not thinking, no taxi sign on top….thus Private car. He drives like a “bat out of hell” and we get to the apt in about 8 minutes. Kk jumps out on her side, I hand him two 20s and a 5… I turned to get out. He shouts to stop and says I only gave him one 20 and the 5… I say no and he insists I give him another 20… I argue for a minute more and there’s at least 3 cars behind up we are blocking that are repeatedly honking their horns…so in frustration, I gave him another 20😫
Lesson learned AGAIN.

Our visit to the Borghese Museum was fascinating. This is one of the most famous galleries in the entire world. The gallery houses a considerable part of the Borghese collection of paintings, sculptures and antiquities. I think my favorite is DAVID… I love this life-size marble sculpture by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1623. It took him seven months to complete the statue.… Capturing the raw intensity of David’s mission…to throw a stone at Goliath. The hero’s muscles are taut and his veins bulging. His face has an apparent look of determination. Bernini’s work is world renowned for a good reason. And to think, he was doing all this in his 20s.

Moving on tomorrow to Split, Croatia…to explore a different view & culture.