5 Stunning Roman Rooftops
May 4th, 2015It is a true Roman virtue to relax in the afternoon when the sun is shining. From spring through autumn, Rome is blessed with many sunny days and temperate weather. Drink in the timeless skyline and feast on the panorama of golden-hued history. These 5 rooftops are a few of our favorite relaxing spots for ... Read More
Rome’s Stately Piazza del Popolo
February 20th, 2015Piazza del Popolo was, and is, a truly impressive welcome to Rome, beautifully proportioned, it is anchored by an Egyptian obelisk (acquired from Egypt by Augustus Caesar during his conquests) which theme is carried forward with a fountain featuring Egyptian lions and a dozen sphinxes on the surrounding wall. The arched portal to Piazza del ... Read More
Tartufo: The King of Gelato
November 19th, 2014A tartufo ice cream treat is a ‘must-try’ for chocolate or gelato lovers travelling in Italy. Legend has it that this decadent sweet was invented for a visiting King by an artisan gelato maker in Pizzo, a small town in Southern Italy. Whatever the origin, it’s a winner! ... Read More
Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne: Unrequited Love
October 22nd, 2014Apollo and Daphne is a life-sized baroque sculpture by renowned sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. An extraordinary masterwork, the sculpture depicts the mythical story of unrequited love and can be found in Galleria Borghese in Rome. The Galleria Borghese is also home to Bernini’s David, paintings by Caravaggio and many other masterpieces. It is no surprise ... Read More
Pasquino, the Talking Statue, and his Congress of Wits
October 8th, 2014The talking statues of Rome acted as avatars for the voices of the people, the dissidents and outliers who fell between the cracks of the Pope’s rule, that could voice their opinions by posting notes on these well-known marble figures. In the early 14th century the Pope ascended to power as King of the Roman ... Read More
10 Must See Roman Fountains
August 4th, 2014The city of Rome has a history of fountains that goes back to the Roman empire. Some of Rome’s fountains are still flowing from the same ancient aqueducts as when they were commissioned. We present our list of ten best loved favorite Roman fountains for you to enjoy with some nearby vacation rentals. Find them ... Read More
Every Caravaggio Painting in Rome
July 11th, 2014The greatest painter of the Renaissance was Caravaggio according to many experts. Born Michelangelo Merisi, his lively character and grandiose personality would rival modern celebrities. He arrived in Rome in 1592, a penniless painter’s apprentice. A decade later he had become the most famous painter in the world as well as a gambler and a ... Read More
Palazzo Valentini – A Rome ‘Must See’
March 19th, 2014Make it a ‘Must See Top Eleven’ list for your Rome visit with the new Domus Romane of Palazzo Valentini. Deep under the palace conveniently located in Piazza Venezia, near the gleaming Victor Emmanuel Monument (fondly called the wedding cake), is a modern exhibit that promises a fascinating 1.5 hour tour. The remains of two ... Read More
Rome for Romans, Great Neighborhood, Few Tourists
March 27th, 2013Clients ask us where they can stay in Rome that is not touristy and where they can enjoy real Italian life. They have heard or know that in the touristy heart of Rome, visitors can be shoulder to shoulder, reminding us of Disneyland Main Street in summer. If you want to be near the sites ... Read More