It’s hard to describe the beauty and the feeling of being in Rome, especially for the first time. American Airlines gave us flight attendants a gift, by putting us up in a hotel in the heart of Rome. Every place of interest is in walking distance. Every corner I turned I was in awe!

HOTEL SAVOY

It was so hard to take a nap because of the anticipated excitement that lied ahead. Without hesitation, I had to force myself to nap. I needed the energy to see all that I could see in one day.

ROME

Rome is the capital of Italy and the largest city in the country. It is located on the western coast of central Italy along the Tiber River. Rome known as the “Eternal City” is called that because it is a place of great beauty, contrast and life. The city is home to numerous iconic landmarks that are a testament to its rich heritage. Rome is famous for having fabulous foods such as spaghetti, pizza and delicious creamy gelato.

THE SPANISH STEPS

The Spanish Steps are one of the most famous stairs in the world. The steps were built in 1723 and 1726. They are the steps that lead from the Piazza di Spagna ( Spanish Square) at the base and Piazza Trinita del Monti that has the Trinita dei Monti church at the top. There are 135 steps and 12 ramps. Also it has 3 terraces that represent the Holy Trinity. The Spanish Steps represent figuratively and metaphorically the close relationship between the Sacred and the Eternal city. This landmark in Rome hosts many events, such as fashion shows, filming of movies and special Italian ceremonies. A fun fact is that the stairs were also considered as a place to rest from the long walks through the city of Rome, but in 2019 a law came into effect saying it is illegal to sit on the steps. By doing this, they hope to preserve this special landmark.

View from one of the terraces on the Spanish Steps.

Fontana della Barcaccia

This is the fountain, which is found at the foot of the Spanish Steps. This fountain looks like an old fishing boat.

We continued walking through the streets of Rome.

The Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is the most famous fountain in the world and definitely in Rome. It has intricate artwork and lots of history. The Fountain also showcases the skills in the ancient Roman’s. I could not believe I didn’t have a coin to toss in. According to the legend, one coin: you will return to Rome, two coins: you will fall in love with an attractive Italian, three coins: you will return, find love, and marry. Luck or no luck, the money goes to a good cause. It was fun seeing everyone throwing the coins in!

Pantheon

Next stop, was The Pantheon. The Pantheon is a former Roman temple and since 609 AD, a Catholic Church in Rome. It is the most preserved monument off Ancient Rome. It was constructed as a temple dedicated to the Gods and became the burial ground for several important artists and kings.

We decided it was time to stop for a cold drink!

As we were sitting there enjoying our cold drink, we witnessed a marriage proposal in front of us! It was very romantic. The bride to be was in tears!

Cat Sanctuary

For all you cat lovers, you would love the Roman Cats Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary. I loved that we fell upon this place. This Cat Sanctuary is a cat shelter in Rome. It makes use of the ancient ruins of Largo di Torre Argentina by providing a home within them for around 150 cats. After the excavation of the temple ruins in 1929, feral cats were drawn to the area, sheltered by the Roman pillars and fed by locals. If you zoom into the photo on the right you can see 2 of the cats just loving life and lounging on the rocks. Unfortunately, I couldn’t take any photos when we got down into the ruins because the cameras scare the cats. I left the Sanctuary with a happy heart!

Altara della Patria (Wedding Cake in Rome)

The Altara della Patria commemorates the unification of Italy in 1861 and the first king of Italy, Victor Emmanuel II. It is known in Rome as the wedding cake because of the building is layered and white, like a wedding cake.

We left the Altara della Patria and headed to the Colosseum. Along the route, we appreciated the beautiful buildings, accompanied with multiple ruins.

Colosseum

The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater built during the Roman Empire. It’s one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. The Colosseum is over 1,900 years old. The gladiator games were held at the Colosseum. Aside from the games, the Colosseum also hosted dramas, reenactments, and even public executions. A series of earthquakes during the fifth century damaged the structure.

The fun did not stop here. Actually, the fun began because the Rome Gay Pride Parade was about to end their parade here at the Colosseum.

It was time to leave the festivities and head to dinner.

Sunset at the Colosseum

Dinner Time

My pizza was so delicious!

When in Rome, you always make room for creamy gelato. I had chocolate chip that was so scrumptious!!

I couldn’t have asked for a better crew to explore Rome with. We walked over 10 miles that day. Every step was filled with fun and laughter. Even though I didn’t get to throw the coin into the fountain, I know I will return to this breathtaking, romantic, timeless place called Rome.

CIAO, A PRESTO!