Roma revisited

I had not been to Rome in over 15 years. I didn't expect much to be different, after all 15 years is nothing compared to the number of centuries it has been around.

I was excited to see some of my old favourites. The Trevi fountain is at the top of the list. My affinity to water makes this impressive piazza size fountain a must see. It didn't disappoint. Even with a few tour groups there, it is had a quiet elegance to it. Being raised on water sports I have always known that the sea can be both tranquil and fierce. That is represented in the two sides of the fountain, with a proud Neptune in the middle ruling over his aquatic kingdom.

Trevi Fountain, Rome

Next was the Spanish steps. Again a long time favourite for its views of the city and sweeping staircase up to the French church. I like the small fountain of a sinking boat at the bottom of the staircase.

I also made the pilgrimage to the Colosseum. I still have now been inside. I didn't feel like waiting the two hours to a buy a ticket in. There is so much to see from outside, that the inside will have to continue to wait.

Some new destinations included Capitoline Hill. The Musei Capitolini is a treasure trove of sculptures, which I think has become my favourite art form. There was also a fascinating Michelangelo exhibit on showcasing some of his architectural work around Rome.

Bronze sculpture in Musei Capitolini

Piazza Navona and its three fountains was also a first for me. I covered a surprising number of fountains in Rome. They love to show off their aquatic creations. Works for me. I was most impressed with the Fountana del Nettuno in the north end of the plaza. The middle piece, Fountana dei Quattro Fiumi, is meant to be the showcase, but not so much for me.

I also stumbled across Campo de Fiori and the open air produce market within. The Italians love their food. I watched a older woman make her way through three or four stalls, poking at fruit, vegetables and breads along the way. She has an endless stream of commentary going (which I could not even come close to understanding), but it seemed to entertain the stall owners. I imagined her making comments and comparisons about the goods and detailing out how she was going to use them in her evening meal. Mamma mia, she was fun!

Overall, I have really enjoyed returning to Rome. It lived up to my past impressions and provided a peek at some new corners of the city. I will be back, I am sure. Rome, like the rest of Italy, I think should be experienced several times in one's life. It has so much to reveal to its visitors.