#Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere

[hsundholm]

Santa Cecilia in Trastevere by Henrik Sundholm Via Flickr: Randomly visiting the churches I passed while in Rome, Italy.

[j23r23]

Unfinished Business

Tangerine x Reader

The moon hung low over Rome, casting a silver glow on the ancient streets. The air was thick with the aroma of Italian cuisine wafting from nearby restaurants. It was a beautiful night, but for me, it was just another job.

Or so I thought.

I made my way through the narrow, cobblestoned streets of Trastevere, one of Rome's oldest and most charming neighborhoods. The pastel-colored buildings, adorned with ivy were illuminated by warm, golden streetlights and created a scene that felt almost timeless. The murmur of conversations in Italian floated through the air, interspersed with the occasional clink of glasses and bursts of laughter from the outdoor trattorias.

I was dressed in a beige canvas jacket over a loose white shirt, paired with dark jeans and my trusty Doc. Martens. A thin golden necklace adorned my neck, its sun pendant glinting in the moonlight. My dark hair was pulled back into a ponytail, and a pair of small, discreet earrings completed the look.

As I walked, I blended in seamlessly with the crowd of locals and tourists. Aware of my surroundings, I take in every detail. I checked my reflection in the glass of a nearby shop window. My eyes scanned the people behind me, looking out for anything unusual. I adjusted my jacket, feeling the comforting weight of my guns hidden underneath it.

Walking again I turn onto Via della Lungaretta, I could see the bell tower of the Basilica di Santa Maria in the distance. The basilica's facade, stood out even in the light of the evening. I had a rendezvous at a small café just a few steps away from the church.

The café, tucked in a quiet corner, was almost hidden from view by a canopy of wisteria. Its outdoor seating area was filled with round, wrought-iron tables, each adorned with a single candle flickering gently in the night breeze. I slipped into a seat at the far end, my back to the wall, giving me a clear view of the entrance and the street beyond.

I ordered an espresso the bitter aroma mingling with the smell of freshly baked bread and simmering tomato sauce. It was almost enough to make me forget why I was here.

Almost.

As I waited, I couldn't shake the feeling that this night, this job, was going to be different from any other.

I had been summoned last minute for an assignment, an urgent backup situation. The briefing was vague, a hurried phone call from a handler I hadn't heard from in years. The pay was enough to make me pack my gear without asking too many questions.

Little did I know, this job would take me down memory lane. The very streets I walked; were the same ones I had left behind years ago. Memories began to surface—another time, another life. A mission that ended sour, and bonds broken. The weight of those memories loomed over me as I glanced around the café.

Just as I was lost in my thoughts, my phone buzzed softly in my pocket. Pulling it out, I saw a message from an unknown number. The screen illuminated with a new set of coordinates and a brief message: "Location changed."

The abandoned warehouse was a cavernous space, its corners swallowed by shadows. I stepped cautiously inside, the light filtering through cracked windows casting eerie shapes on the concrete floor. The sound of my boots echoing in the vast emptiness.

"Looks like our backup has arrived," Lemon's voice cut through the silence, tinged with his usual dry humor.

"About time," Tangerine muttered, his tone gruff and annoyed.

The moment I heard Tangerine's voice, my heart skipped a beat. Memories of our teenage years flashed before my eyes—times filled with reckless adventures, stolen goods, and countless nights in jail cells. We had been inseparable, the three of us, until everything fell apart.

We were in a seedy motel room, we had just returned from a grueling mission, one that pushed us to our limits and tested our resolve. But instead of celebrating our success, the atmosphere crackled with frustration and anger. Lemon had left to procure some essentials—food, clean clothes, and the like—leaving Tangerine and me alone, a situation that had become increasingly uncomfortable over the past few months.

I stood by the window, staring out at the neon-lit streets below, trying to gather my thoughts. Tangerine paced the room, his movements agitated, his jaw clenched in a way that signaled trouble brewing.

"You can't keep doing this," I finally spoke up, my voice low but edged with frustration.

"Doing what?" Tangerine snapped, stopping in his tracks to glare at me. "Trying to keep you alive? Making sure you don't get yourself killed because you're too damn reckless?"

His words hit like a slap across the face, igniting a fire within me. "I'm not a child, Tangerine! I can take care of myself. I don't need you constantly hovering over me, questioning every move I make!"

"You call this taking care of yourself?" Tangerine shot back, his voice rising. "You nearly got us both killed back there! If it weren't for Lemon and me cleaning up your mess—"

"You don't get to decide what risks I take," I shot back, my temper flaring. "We're supposed to be partners!"

His jaw tightened even more, a muscle ticking in his cheek. "Partners? A partner thinks about the consequences!"

"Oh, and you do?" I interrupted, standing up to face him squarely. "You act like you're the only one who cares about the consequences. Well, newsflash, Tangerine, I've had enough of your lectures!"

He took a step towards me, his voice low and dangerous. "Maybe if you listened to me once in a while, we wouldn't be in this mess every damn time!"

I scoffed, shaking my head in disbelief.

The room seemed to shrink around us. We had faced danger together countless times, but this argument cut deeper than any knife or bullet.

"You're not the same person I used to know," Tangerine said quietly, his voice rough with emotion. "You've changed, and not for the better."

His words struck a nerve. "I've changed? You just think of me as an annoyance," I said bitterly. "And the one that has changed is you! You've become controlling, possessive..."

"I'm trying to protect you!" he exploded, his fists clenching at his sides. "Don’t you get it?"

"You're smothering me," I replied, my voice raw with emotion. "I can't breathe with you watching my every move."

Tangerine looked away, his jaw working as he struggled to find the right words.

"I can't do this anymore," I whispered finally, the admission hanging between us like a death sentence.

Tangerine's gaze snapped back to mine, disbelief and hurt warring in his eyes. "What are you saying?"

"I'm saying I can't do this anymore," I said, the words tasting bitter on my tongue. "I'm done, Tangerine. I can't, I..."

The silence that followed was deafening. Tangerine stood there, his hands clenched into fists at his sides, conflicting emotions flickering over his face—anger, hurt.

"Fine," he said ultimately, his voice clipped and cold. "Go then!"

I took a deep breath and stepped out of the shadows. "What the hell are you doing here?" Tangerine's voice was sharp, filled with disbelief and anger.

I turned to face him, my eyes locking with his. "Got a call. Backup needed. Guess they didn't mention who it was."

Tangerine's jaw tightened. "We don't need you."

Before I could respond, Lemon stepped between us. "Oh, for crying out loud, can we save the drama for after the job? We're on the clock here."

I ignored Tangerine's sour demeanor and turned to Lemon, a genuine smile spreading across my face despite the tension. "Lemon!" I said, pulling him into a hug.

Lemon chuckled, returning the embrace, almost breaking my bones. "Hey darling. How are you doing?"

"Better, knowing I’m working with you." I admitted, glancing briefly at Tangerine, who was busy checking his weapon with a scowl.

Lemon sighed, shaking his head. "You two need to work this shit out after this."

Tangerine shot Lemon a glare, but I could sense his frustration. Lemon had always been perceptive, the one who could see through our tough exteriors to the complicated feelings underneath.

As we geared up for the mission, the tension between Tangerine and me simmered just beneath the surface. We moved with practiced efficiency, that came from years of working together, each of us slipping into our roles seamlessly. Despite our issues.

Between gearing up and going over procedures, Lemon found a chance to pull me aside. "You know, Tangerine hasn't been the same since you left," he said quietly, his voice tinged with concern.

I nodded, my gaze drifting towards where Tangerine was meticulously checking his equipment.

"He's not good at expressing it, but he missed you," Lemon continued, his tone earnest. "We both did."

Lemon placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. Before I could respond, Tangerine called out, snapping at me. "How many times have you gotten yourself into trouble since you left us?"

"Not as much as you two, I bet," I shot back, unable to resist the jab.

Lemon chuckled, the sound echoing in the warehouse. "Touché."

"Speak for yourself," Tangerine muttered under his breath, though loud enough for all of us to hear.

Lemon laid out the blueprints of the building we were about to infiltrate, his finger tracing the paths we would take. While I was listening Lemon explain the plan, I checked my weapons, my movements precise and controlled.

"You still using that old piece?" Tangerine teased, nodding towards my gun.

"It gets the job done," I replied curtly, my focus unwavering. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves.

Lemon chuckled softly, shaking his head. "You two are unbelievable," he muttered, though there was a fondness in his voice that we couldn't miss.

As we finalized our plan, the tension in the warehouse shifted. This job was risky, the stakes high. The mission was straightforward: infiltrate, retrieve, and eliminate if necessary. But the emotional undercurrent between Tangerine and me was palpable, a distraction we couldn't afford.

"Alright, let's do this," Lemon said finally, his voice cutting through the quiet that settled over us.

With a nod, Tangerine took point, leading us towards the back entrance of the building. The night air turned darker as we moved, shadows melding with shadows, our steps silent.

I couldn't help but feel his scrutiny as we moved through the shadows. "You still relying on brute force for everything?" he muttered under his breath, his voice barely audible over the comms.

I shot him a sideways glance, irritation creeping into my tone. "At least I don't shadow your every damn move like you do mine," I retorted, adjusting my gear with unnecessary force.

Lemon, sensing the escalating tension, sighed audibly. "Focus, both of you."

Tangerine rolled his eyes, but I could see annoyance in his expression. "You’re still as thickheaded as always," he jabbed, his voice laced with frustration.

I clenched my jaw, fighting the urge to snap back. "And you waste too much time analyzing my every move."

Lemon glanced between us. "You two are like an old married couple," he muttered under his breath, though his words were loud enough for us to hear.

Tangerine and I shot Lemon a glare. "Shut up!" We both hiss.

With a reluctant nod from Tangerine, we pressed forward. The night air grew colder as we approached a courtyard, each step bringing us closer to the heart of the operation. Despite our differences, our training took over, and we moved with practiced efficiency.

As we reached the back entrance, Tangerine signaled for us to halt. He checked his watch, then glanced around the corner cautiously. "Two guards up ahead," he whispered, his tone sharp.

I nodded, my annoyance with him momentarily overshadowed by the need for precision. "I'll take the one on the left," I replied, already moving into position.

Tangerine shot me a skeptical look but didn't argue. "Fine. Just don't screw it up," he muttered.

I smirked, unable to resist the urge to tease him. "Careful, Tangerine. You don't want me to accidentally shoot you in the foot" I quipped, before focusing back on the task at hand.

Tangerine just glared at me with annoyance.

With a silent countdown from Lemon, he and I sprang into action. The guards were swiftly neutralized, our movements synchronized despite our bickering.

We moved as a unit, knowing each other's moves without needing to speak. The emotional walls we had built seemed to soften, if only for the duration of the operation.

As we breached the targeted room, the unexpected happened—a flurry of gunfire erupted from all sides. The air filled with the sharp cracks of bullets ricocheting off metal, and the acrid smell of gunpowder hung heavy.

All three of us instinctively took cover. It was chaos, the plan unraveling. We moved swiftly, communicating in terse commands and covering each other's positions as we fought our way through the ambush.

"Cover me!" Tangerine shouted over the din of gunfire, his voice cutting through the chaos.

I nodded, providing suppressing fire as he maneuvered to flank the attackers. Bullets whizzed dangerously close, the adrenaline pumping through my veins heightening my senses. In the midst of the firefight, Tangerine and I found ourselves back-to-back, a position from countless missions past.

"On your left!" I shouted, spotting an approaching enemy.

Tangerine spun, his movements fluid and precise. With a series of controlled shots, he neutralized the threat without hesitation.

"Thanks," he muttered, the words barely audible over the continuing gunfire.

While Lemon retrieved the crucial files we needed from the secure server, Tangerine and I methodically cleared the warehouse floor by floor.

As we regrouped outside the warehouse, the agitation between us returned, like a storm cloud on the horizon. Our previous exchange of curt commands and coordinated movements had been efficient, but now we were back to our old ways.

"You were reckless," Tangerine yelled, stepping closer, his jaw clenched in anger.

"Reckless? I was doing my job," I countered, meeting his gaze defiantly. "I was covering your ass! If it wasn't for me, you'd be Swiss cheese by now," I retorted sharply, pushing my index finger against his chest.

Lemon, sensing the rising tension, attempted to intervene. "Hey, let's all take a breather here," he interjected calmly, trying to diffuse the escalating confrontation.

But Tangerine wasn't backing down. "Your "job" almost got us pinned down there," he insisted, his voice rising with each word.

I felt a surge of indignation. "And what would you have done differently, huh?" I shot back, my hands curling into fists at my sides.

"I would've followed the plan!" Tangerine snapped, his frustration palpable.

"The plan went out the window the moment we were ambushed!" I argued, my voice rising to match his intensity.

Tangerine turned away abruptly, pacing a few steps as he tried to rein in his temper. "You’re still the same!" he protested, his voice strained.

I took a deep breath, attempting to steady my own emotions. "But we made it out, didn't we?" I said, trying to reason with him.

Lemon's pointed look spoke volumes, his expression a mixture of concern and frustration. "You two need to sort this out. Now!"

Tangerine and I stood in the cool night air, as he finally broke the silence. "Why did you leave?"

I took a deep breath, the words heavy on my tongue. "Because you were driving me crazy. You wouldn't stop criticizing me, watching my every move."

He looked away, the pain in his eyes mirroring my own. "I was trying to protect you."

"From what?" I demanded, my voice breaking. "We were partners. I didn't need protecting. I needed you to trust me."

He met my gaze, his blue eyes filled with an intensity that took my breath away. "I couldn't bear the thought of losing you. Because I—" He hesitated, the words catching in his throat.

Lemon's voice cut through the tension. "For the love of God, just say it already. You love her. It's been obvious for years."

Tangerine froze, his gaze locked on mine.

The world seemed to stand still in that moment. My heart raced, emotions swirling in a tumultuous whirlwind. A statement I had never expected, hung now between us.

"Lemon..." Tangerine started, his voice thick with emotion.

Lemon stepped forward, a knowing smile on his face. "I've known for years, Tangerine. You're not exactly subtle."

Tangerine shot him a glare, but there was gratitude in his eyes. "And you never said anything?"

Lemon shrugged. "It wasn't my place. But it's about time you two figured it out."

I turned back to Tangerine, my heart pounding. "I... I thought..." I stood there, comprehending what is happening.

Tangerine took a step closer to me, his voice barely above a whisper. "I do love you. More than I can put into words."

Relief washed over me, mingled with a surge of emotions I had kept buried for so long. "Then why..."

Tangerine reached out, gently cupping my face in his hands. "I was scared," he confessed, his voice raw with vulnerability. "Scared that if I admitted how I felt, it would jeopardize everything. Our partnership, our friendship..."

"Our sanity," Lemon chimed in, a faint smile playing on his lips.

Tangerine ignored him, his focus solely on me. "But tonight, seeing you again, after so long. I can't deny it anymore. I need you, not just as a partner, but as..."

"As something more," I finished for him, my voice trembling with emotion.

He nodded, his thumbs brushing lightly against my cheeks. "Yes. As something more."

Lemon cleared his throat, breaking the intimate moment with a smug grin on his face. "Well, now that we've got that settled, can we please get out of here before the authorities decide to crash your little make-up session?"

We chuckled softly, the air around us at ease now. Together, we made our way through the deserted streets of Rome.

As we walked, Tangerine reached out and intertwined his fingers with mine. It was a simple gesture. I reciprocated the act, feeling the warmth of his touch seep into my skin.

Lemon walked a few steps ahead, occasionally glancing back with a satisfied expression. "You know," he said, breaking the comfortable silence, "I've been waiting for this moment for a long time. It's about time you two got your act together."

Tangerine rolled his eyes but didn't let go of my hand. "Yeah, yeah. Thanks for the nudge, Lemon."

Lemon grinned. "Anytime. But seriously, keep it together, I can’t handle more drama."

Something i put together on a whim...

[celine-t-r]

Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere , Roma

[mr-pabs]

Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere (Roma, 20-05-2022).

[travelwithdebsi]

Day 20 - Rome (22.01.2023)

I saw a lot again today. I started my day in the Vatican City, where I also saw St. Peter’s Basilica. At 12 o’clock the Pope prayed to the people at the St. Peter’s Square from a window. That was quite an experience. There where so many people listening. Also, I waited in the line for two hours to get into the Basilica, but it didn’t go forward and then I left. At least I had already been to the Basilica the last time I was in Rome.

After that I went to Castel Sant‘Angelo and across the Ponte Sant‘Angelo towards Navona Square. There I had lunch at a recommended restaurant and for dessert a tiramisu from „Two Sizes“ - very delicious.

Then I walked to Trastevere. It was such a charming neighbourhood with lots of young people and many restaurants, cafes and bars. Very different atmosphere than in the historical part of Rome around the Colosseum, but also very nice.

On the way to the metro I also saw Circus Maximus. By metro I went to Crypt of the Capuchins. It was very impressive. There were skeletal remains all over the crypt to decorate the ceilings and to build statues. I have never ever seen anything like that before. An absolute recommendation to go there. Unfortunately, it was not allowed to take photos.

After that I looked at two more churches (there are over 900 churches in Rome). I saw the „Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano“ and the „Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore“ - two very beautiful and impressive churches.

[raffaeleitlodeo]

25/12/2022 - Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, Roma

“Natale per tutti” - Comunità di S. Egidio

Foto: Matteo Mat Nardone

[jacopocioni]

Ferdinando Fuga, architetto fiorentino

Credo sappiate che nonostante scriva per questa testata e ami Firenze, io sia romano e vivo a Roma. Di tanto in tanto trovo fatti o personaggi che accomunano le nostre città e mi piace condividere queste scoperte con voi. È il caso di Ferdinando Fuga, forse personaggio poco conosciuto a Firenze, ma architetto molto attivo sia a Roma che a Napoli, dove si trovano le sue innumerevoli opere. Ferdinando nacque a Firenze l’11 novembre del 1699 dal muranese Giovanni Fuga e da Antonia Serravalli, i cui ascendenti avevano rivestito cariche prestigiose nell’amministrazione civica fiorentina. Il giorno seguente alla sua nascita, il futuro architetto, venne battezzato con il nome di Ferdinando in onore di Ferdinando de’ Medici, Gran Principe di Toscana, che gli fece da padrino di battesimo in quanto protettore del padre Giovanni, suo aiutante di camera e che portò con sé da Murano, insieme al fratello Francesco quando questi si ammalò durante il Carnevale di Venezia del 1696. Ferdinando, dopo essersi formato nella bottega di uno dei più importanti artisti del barocco fiorentino come Gian Battista Foggini, nel 1718 si trasferisce a Roma per stabilirsi nella capitale. L’Urbe serbava tracce di un grandissimo fervore artistico con personaggi del calibro di Nicola Salvi e Alessandro Specchi. Fu così che intorno al 1730 Ferdinando si fece notare per le sue innate doti con ben tre diversi progetti, che se anche non ottennero un successo immediato, lo misero in mostra per la sua abilità e maestria. La prima fu una proposta per rinnovare la fontana di Trevi (1723), poi altri due diversi progetti, uno per la facciata della chiesa di San Giovanni in Laterano (1723) e l’altro per quella di Santa Maria sopra Minerva (1725).

In seguito gli verrà  commissionata la facciata della Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere e poi quella di Santa Maria Maggiore (sempre a Roma). Nella capitale sposò nel novembre 1727 Angela Ponetti dalla quale ebbe cinque figli, due delle quali Maria Vittoria e Maria Antonia, che rispettivamente sposarono Giacomo Pannini, figlio di prime nozze dell’architetto, pittore e scenografo Giovanni Paolo Pannini e Ferdinando Hamerani, un noto incisore di monete. Nel 1730, dopo un breve soggiorno a Palermo, Fuga entrerà nelle grazie di papa Clemente XII (Lorenzo Corsini), un conterraneo, nato infatti a Firenze il 7 aprile del 1652, che conoscendo le sue doti gli affiderà il progetto del proprio palazzo di famiglia (Palazzo Corsini) e gli assegnerà la carica di architetto del Quirinale, grazie alla quale potrà costruire la Coffee House del Quirinale, i giardini e la cosiddetta Palazzina, quella che oggi è la dimora del nostro Presidente della Repubblica.

Nel 1737 completerà la scenografia di Piazza del Quirinale con la festosa facciata del Palazzo della Consulta. Nello stesso anno terminerà la costruzione della chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Orazione e Morte, quella arredata con le ossa dei morti e situata in via Giulia. La via prendeva nome da papa Giulio II, che aveva risistemato questa importante strada, per altro parallela a via del Pellegrino, all’epoca una strada principale che portava i fedeli in pellegrinaggio direttamente a San Pietro. In via Giulia abitava una numerosa comunità di fiorentini, non a caso qui c’è la famosa Basilica dedicata a San Giovanni Battista dei Fiorentini… Nei pressi troviamo anche Palazzo Farnese, una delle sue opere migliori.

A Roma Fuga mantiene la carica di Architetto dei Sacri Palazzi anche con Benedetto XIV, che gli commissionerà la facciata della Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, con una felice e scenografica creazione nata per proteggere degli stupendi mosaici trecenteschi. Risale invece al 1748 il progetto per la Basilica di Sant’Apollinare. Nel 1751 Fuga venne poi chiamato a Napoli, nell’ambito del programma di rinnovamento edilizio voluto dal nuovo re Carlo di Borbone, da cui ebbe l’incarico di progettare il gigantesco Real Albergo dei Poveri, un edificio ispirato dalle idee illuministe dell’epoca e che comprendeva una grande chiesa esagonale. Altri incarichi importanti furono quelli per la realizzazione di palazzo dei Granili, la facciata della chiesa dei Girolamini, i palazzi Caramanico e Giordano e l’allestimento del nuovo museo archeologico nel palazzo precedentemente occupato dall’Università. Un’altra sua opera tipicamente illuminista, fu il Cimitero delle 366 Fosse di Poggioreale per l’Ospedale degli Incurabili. Si trattava per l’epoca di un’opera innovativa di edilizia cimiteriale, in cui era prevista una fossa comune per ciascun giorno dell’anno.

Nel 1764 rimodernò da gotico a barocco il Casino del nobili, in Piazza del Campo a Siena. Nel 1768 realizzò lungo il cosiddetto Miglio d’Oro a Resìna, la Villa Favorita in seguito divenuta residenza reale e così chiamata dalla stessa regina Maria Carolina d’Asburgo proprio perché le ricordava la sua amata dimora di Schönbrunn a Vienna. In questi anni il suo stile abbandona i dettagli decorativi tipici del barocco per scegliere uno stile più monumentale e severo, probabilmente per seguire le esigenze illuministiche di funzionalità, più che per una reale volontà  di accostamento al nuovo stile neoclassico. Fu eletto poi principe dell’Accademia di San Luca negli anni 1753-1754. Risale agli ultimi anni della sua vita il progetto per il restauro della Cattedrale di Palermo, attuato però solo dopo la sua morte con forme molto più radicali di quelle scelte dall’ormai famosissimo architetto. Morirà a Napoli il 7 febbraio 1782. E voi conoscevate questo grande personaggio?

Riccardo Massaro Read the full article

[agrpress-blog]

Il “Roma Vocal Ensemble” in concerto a Roma nella Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere di Marco Guizzi Nel 2015 è nata l’id... #ConcertoSantaCecilia #FedericoIncitti #Musicacorale #RestauroBasilica #RomaVocalEnsemble https://agrpress.it/il-roma-vocal-ensemble-in-concerto-a-roma-nella-basilica-di-santa-cecilia-in-trastevere/?feed_id=7415&_unique_id=670fe0f0a7280

[evelynne-rian]

Rome Vacation Planner: Top Landmarks, Food, and Hidden Gems

Landmarks 🇮🇹⛲️🌳

Pantheon The Pantheon, an architectural marvel with the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome, features a circular interior despite its square façade. It serves as a burial site for notable figures like Raphael and Vittorio Emmanuel II. Its design allows a perfect sphere to fit within the dome, and it has served various religious functions over the centuries.

Piazza Navona This vibrant square is renowned for Bernini’s Fountain of Four Rivers, which symbolizes major rivers and includes allegorical figures. The square also houses other fountains with intriguing designs, adding to its historical charm.

Monument to Vittorio Emanuelle II A grand monument offering panoramic views of classical Rome, including the Capitoline and Palatine Hills. It stands as a tribute to Italy’s first king and provides stunning views of the city’s historical layers.

Roman Forum The Forum is a well-preserved marketplace from ancient Rome, notable for its fire-resistant construction. Trajan’s Column, a significant monument within the Forum, showcases victories and architectural innovation.

Marcellus Theater An ancient theater that once accommodated 20,000 people, marking the entrance to the Jewish ghetto. It represents the scale and grandeur of Roman entertainment venues.

Spanish Steps Iconic and often crowded, the Spanish Steps lead to the Villa Borghese. They offer a popular spot for tourists to enjoy panoramic city views and access the adjacent park.

Villa Borghese A large park near the Spanish Steps, ideal for leisurely bike tours. It features beautiful gardens and paths, providing a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle.

Trastevere A charming neighborhood known for its winding streets and the Piazza di Santa Maria with its mosaic ceilings. It’s a delightful area to explore and enjoy local atmosphere.

Mouth of Truth A famous sculpture known for the legend that it bites off the hands of liars. It’s a popular photo spot, though often crowded.

Trevi Fountain A baroque masterpiece by Bernini, renowned for its elaborate design and the tradition of tossing coins to ensure a return to Rome.

Four Fountains Located at an intersection, these fountains represent rivers and gods, reflecting Rome’s rich artistic and symbolic heritage.

Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica The Vatican Museums are renowned for their vast collection of art and historical artifacts, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling. St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s largest Roman Catholic church, houses notable works such as Michelangelo’s Pieta and provides a significant historical and spiritual site. The Vatican also features gardens, a golden sphere sculpture, and notable architecture.

Hidden Gems 💎✨

Via della Pilotta A beautiful street with archways, noted for its picturesque appearance during the night strolls.

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria This church houses Bernini’s Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, a dramatic sculpture within a theatrical setting. It’s known for its elaborate interior.

Palazzo Quirinalle The presidential palace with grand architecture and obelisks. It’s an impressive site in Rome’s political center.

Chapter Roma Hotel The Chapter Roma Hotel offered a convenient location and early check-in. Breakfast included espresso shots, mozzarella cheese balls, and scrambled eggs cooked with olive oil. The hotel’s breakfast was complemented by fresh salads with balsamic vinegar and tomatoes.

Food🍨🐟

La Pesceria Barberini A seafood restaurant known for its fresh offerings.

Origano Trevi A dining spot famous for its artichokes and other Italian dishes, contributing to the local culinary scene.

Two Sizes A popular takeaway place known for its custardy tiramisu, often with a wait due to its popularity.

Gelateria Della Palma Famous for its extensive range of gelato flavors. I enjoyed panna cotta, pistachio, and chocolate flavors.

[madisonhunn]

June 3- Time is beginning to run out

Today was our second to last day of classes, and it luckily felt like a regular normal day. The goal is not to think about the time here coming to an end. Instead, I gladly trekked around Rome and listened to my classmates and let the sun beat down on me once again.

We began at the Doria-Pamphilj Gallery. It was small but a very beautiful building. I sat and looked at the stone painting by Antonio Tempesta for quite a while. It was…literally astonishing. Being able to get inches from that to really soak in all that detail is something I really enjoy about spaces like this and I like that they placed it on the wall at eye level. The scene is so tumultuous, yet so easy to break apart. And the Raphael above it is hard to peel your eyes off of. Such a mesmerizing two works.

We stopped by Villa Farnesina for a moment. Fresco doesn’t catch my eye much like other things but I still find it absolutely incredible. I always want to touch it. After that, we stopped by a couple of churches. There are some amazing sculptural works in these places and not that many people inside of them. I don’t mind not being with a crowd all the time but do people even know? They are missing out incredibly.

We walked around and got food in the area after, went home and did some homework before trekking out again for Elsa’s birthday. She slipped on an orange and cut her knee and I couldn’t not laugh, even though it was her birthday. Sorry girl. We got our Trevi Fountain on though!

In order:

1. Unicorns!

2. You tell me what you think is wrong here…

3. Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere

4. Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere, statue is Stefano Maderno’s Saint Cecilia

5. Bernini’s Blessed Ludovica Albertoni, 1674

6. Bags both me and Max were wanting to steal from the lunch place

7. Trevi Fountain!

8. Star formation we did in front of David, and his very kind response to us being freaks

[cruger2984]

THE DESCRIPTION OF POPE SAINT JULIUS I Feast Day: April 12

Julius I is remembered for setting 25 December as the official date of birth of Jesus Christ, starting the tradition of celebrating Christmas on that date.

He also asserted his authority against Arianism, a heretical cult that insisted Christ was human and not divine.

Julius was born in Rome but the exact date of his birth is not known. He became pope in 337 AD, four months after his predecessor, Pope Mark, had died.

In 339 Julius gave refuge in Rome to Bishop St Athanasius the Great of Alexandria, who had been deposed and expelled by the Arians.

At the Council of Rome in 340, Julius reaffirmed the position of Athanasius.

He then tried to unite the Western bishops against Arianism with the Council of Sardica in 342. The council acknowledged the Pope’s supreme authority, enhancing his power in ecclesiastical affairs by granting him the right to judge cases of legal possession of Episcopal sees.

Julius restored Athanasius and his decision was confirmed by the Roman emperor Constantius II, even though he himself was an Arian.

During the years of his papacy, Julius built several basilicas and churches in Rome.

Although the exact date of birth of Jesus has never been known, Julius decreed 25 December to be the official date for the celebration. This was near the Roman festival of Saturnalia, held in honour of the god Saturn from 17 to 23 December. Part of the reason he chose this date may have been because he wanted to create a Christian alternative to Saturnalia.

Another reason may have been that the emperor Aurelian had declared 25 December the birthday of Sol Invictus, the sun god and patron of Roman soldiers. Julius may have thought that he could attract more converts to Christianity by allowing them to continue to hold celebrations on the same day.

Julius died in Rome on 12 April 352 and was succeeded by Pope Liberius.

He was buried initially in the catacombs on the Aurelian Way but his body was later transported for burial to Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the churches he had ordered to be completed during his papacy.

Source: italyonthisday.com

[koralgo]

3 Days in Rome? Looking for a Perfect Itineraries?

Searching for the ideal all-inclusive schedule for 3 days in Rome? Keep reading for the top attractions, viewpoints, and best hotels in Rome.

Undoubtedly, three days is hardly sufficient to explore all that Rome has in store. Therefore, there's no need to fret if you can't tick off every item on your Rome bucket list. However, with strategic itinerary planning, your three-day in Italy can indeed cover the must-see attractions and provide you with a profound essence of the city.

The Best Hotels in Rome, Italy to Stay

Albergo del Senato - ⭐️ 4.8/5 rating

Anantara Palazzo Naiadi - ⭐️ 4.6/5 rating

Best Western Hotel Globus - ⭐️ 4.2/5 rating

Aleph Rome Hotel- ⭐️ 4.6 rating

Antico Albergo del Sole al Pantheon - ⭐️4.2/5 rating

Bio Hotel Raphael- ⭐️4.4/5 rating

A Quick 3 Days Rome Itineraries

Day 1:

09:00 AM: Start your day with a visit to Via Appia Antica, an ancient Roman road filled with history and picturesque ruins (2.5 hours).

11:30 AM: Enjoy a leisurely lunch break (1 hour).

12:30 PM: Head to Testaccio market for a taste of local flavors and vibrant atmosphere (1 hour 15 minutes).

01:45 PM: Explore the charming Testaccio neighborhood, known for its authentic Roman ambiance (1 hour 15 minutes).

03:15 PM: Journey to St. Peter's Basilica for awe-inspiring architecture and religious significance (1 hour 15 minutes).

04:30 PM: Take some time to wander around the Vatican City and soak in its grandeur (1 hour).

06:00 PM: Conclude your day with dinner and relaxation.

Day 2:

09:00 AM: Begin your day with a visit to the Jewish Ghetto of Rome, steeped in history and cultural significance (1 hour 15 minutes).

10:15 AM: Explore the picturesque neighborhood of Trastevere, famous for its narrow streets and lively atmosphere (3 hours).

01:15 PM: Enjoy a quick lunch break to savor local cuisine (30 minutes).

01:45 PM: Head to Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, one of the most important churches in Rome (1 hour 15 minutes).

03:00 PM: Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, renowned for its stunning mosaics and architecture (1 hour).

04:15 PM: Take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding area and perhaps grab a coffee at a nearby cafe.

06:00 PM: Relax and unwind in the evening at your accommodation or explore nearby dining options.

Day 3:

09:00 AM: Begin your day with a peaceful walk through the beautiful Villa Borghese Gardens (1 hour).

10:00 AM: Visit the iconic Spanish Steps and explore the upscale shopping street, Via dei Condotti (1 hour).

11:00 AM: Head to the Quirinal Palace & Gardens for a guided tour (2 hours 5 minutes, €3 entrance fee).

01:30 PM: Enjoy a leisurely lunch break to recharge for the afternoon (30 minutes).

02:00 PM: Explore the Galleria Alberto Sordi for some retail therapy and architectural beauty (1 hour 15 minutes).

03:15 PM: Visit the historic Pantheon, a marvel of ancient Roman engineering (45 minutes).

04:00 PM: Take a leisurely stroll around the surrounding area, perhaps indulging in some gelato or espresso.

05:30 PM: Conclude your trip with dinner at a local restaurant and reflect on your time in Rome.

Feel free to adjust the schedule based on your preferences and interests! By using Rome itinerary generator, you can custom your days, activities and much more!

[lamilanomagazine]

L’Arma dei Carabinieri celebra la patrona “Virgo Fidelis”, nel 74esimo anniversario della proclamazione

L’Arma dei Carabinieri celebra la patrona “Virgo Fidelis”, nel 74esimo anniversario della proclamazione. Nella giornata odierna si celebra la “Virgo Fidelis”, Patrona dell’Arma dei Carabinieri. In questa giornata si ricorda anche la “Giornata dell’Orfano”, profondamente sentita dai militari dell’Arma che si stringono a tutti i figli dei colleghi scomparsi. Nella Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, il Cardinale Matteo Maria Zuppi, Arcivescovo di Bologna e Presidente della CEI, ha officiato una Santa Messa, insieme all’Ordinario Militare, Arcivescovo Santo Marcianò, a cui hanno partecipato il Ministro della Difesa Guido Crosetto, il Ministro dell’Interno Matteo Piantedosi, il Capo di Stato Maggiore della Difesa Giuseppe Cavo Dragone e il Comandante Generale dell’Arma dei Carabinieri Teo Luzi. Il Cardinale Zuppi, nel corso dell’omelia, si è soffermato sulla figura del Vice Brigadiere Salvo D’Acquisto: «Servo di Dio ed Eroe della Patria che pagò con il sacrificio della vita il suo impegno nell’Arma dei Carabinieri». Inoltre, nel ricordare la ricorrenza odierna, ha sottolineato come la Virgo Fidelis «conserva il bene umano più prezioso che possediamo, la nostra umanità e quella del prossimo». L’affetto dei militari dell’Arma è dimostrato anche materialmente attraverso l’Opera Nazionale di Assistenza per gli orfani dei Militari dell’Arma dei Carabinieri (O.N.A.O.M.A.C), un ente morale di natura privatistica che dal 1948 assiste gli orfani tramite un piccolo contributo volontario mensile elargito dai militari di ogni ordine e grado dell'Arma dei Carabinieri. Infatti, sia a Roma - al termine della Messa a Trastevere - sia in altre regioni d’Italia, con piccole ma significative cerimonie, sono state consegnate delle borse di studio quali premi “di buon profitto” agli orfani maggiormente distintisi nel rendimento scolastico e delle targhe d’argento ai neo-laureati, segno concreto di vicinanza alle famiglie dei colleghi scomparsi. La celebrazione della Virgo Fidelis risale al 1949, quando Papa Pio XII proclamò ufficialmente Maria “Virgo Fidelis” Patrona dell’Arma dei Carabinieri, fissandone la ricorrenza al 21 novembre, data in cui la Cristianità celebra la Presentazione di Maria Vergine al tempio e anniversario della “Battaglia di Culqualber”. Il 21 novembre del 1941 ebbe anche luogo una delle più cruente battaglie in terra d’Africa, nella quale un Battaglione di Carabinieri si sacrificò nella difesa, protrattasi per tre mesi, del caposaldo di Culqualber. Quei Caduti sono entrati a far parte della folta schiera di Carabinieri che, in pace e in guerra, hanno saputo tener fede al giuramento prestato fino all’estremo sacrificio. Alla Bandiera dell’Arma dei Carabinieri fu conferita, per il fatto d’arme, la seconda Medaglia d’Oro al Valor Militare, dopo quella ottenuta per la partecipazione alla Prima Guerra Mondiale.... #notizie #news #breakingnews #cronaca #politica #eventi #sport #moda Read the full article

[personal-reporter]

Ferragosto: Origini storiche e tradizioni culturali in Italia

Il Ferragosto è una festività celebrata in tutta Italia il 15 agosto, che ha origini antiche nell'Antica Roma. La festa era in onore di Augusto, e il nome Ferragosto, che significa il riposo di Augusto, dà il nome anche al mese. Nel corso dei secoli, la festa ha assunto diverse forme e significati, ma è sempre stata associata al concetto di riposo e festa.Origini storiche del FerragostoIl Ferragosto ha origini antiche nell'Antica Roma, dove si celebrava la festività delle Feriae Augusti, istituita dall'imperatore Augusto nel 18 a.C. Si trattava di un periodo di riposo e festeggiamenti che traeva ispirazione dai Consualia, feste dedicate al termine dei lavori agricoli. La festa era celebrata dal 1° al 15 agosto, e durante questo periodo i lavoratori agricoli e gli schiavi godevano di un periodo di riposo. Inoltre, si svolgevano gare e competizioni sportive, spettacoli teatrali e musicali, e si consumavano grandi banchetti. Con l'avvento del Cristianesimo, la festa delle Feriae Augusti fu sostituita dalla festa dell'Assunzione di Maria, che cade il 15 agosto. La festa fu istituita dalla Chiesa Cattolica intorno al VII secolo d.C. e celebrava l'ascensione di Maria al cielo. Tuttavia, il Ferragosto continuò ad essere una festa popolare, e nel corso dei secoli ha assunto diverse forme e significati. Tradizioni culturali del FerragostoOggi, il Ferragosto è un'occasione per trascorrere del tempo con la famiglia e gli amici, e molte persone si godono una giornata di riposo e relax. Le tradizioni culinarie sono un elemento importante della festa, e molte persone cucinano carne e verdure alla griglia. In alcune regioni d'Italia, come in Toscana, è tradizione mangiare il cocomero, mentre in altre, come in Sicilia, si preparano dolci tipici come i cannoli. In alcune città italiane, come ad esempio Roma, si svolgono eventi e spettacoli per celebrare il Ferragosto. A Roma, ad esempio, si svolge la tradizionale processione dell'Assunta, che parte dalla Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore e arriva alla Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere. Inoltre, in molte città italiane si svolgono fuochi d'artificio per celebrare la festa. Durante il ventennio fascista, la tradizione popolare della gita turistica di Ferragosto è nata, e a partire dalla seconda metà degli anni venti, il regime ha promosso la pratica come un modo per diffondere la cultura italiana e la propaganda fascista. In questo periodo, molte persone si recavano in vacanza in località di mare o di montagna, e il regime promuoveva la pratica come un modo per diffondere la cultura italiana e la propaganda fascista. Foto di summerstock Read the full article

[themedievalproject]

Take me to Church: Basilica of Our Lady in Trastevere

Apse Mosaic by Pietro Cavallini, 1291 Basilica of Our Lady in Trastevere, January 2023

Location: Rome Country: Italy Denomination: Catholic Website: santamariaintrastevere.it

Mosaic fans, the 12th century artistry here was pretty unreal to see. Long on my list was to visit this church and with my limited time in Rome, it was the only one I got to see.

I knew of this Church in that it had gorgeous mosaics with gold but it's nothing like being in the space and experiencing it with all of your senses. I got as close as I could to the apse, past the classical columns that seemed so jarring to me.

As I stood and took it all in, there were a few things that stood out to me that were unusual, since most of the churches I've frequented are in the UK.

The apse here was obviously a mosaic and it's not just Christ enthroned at the center, it's the Virgin Mary too. And Christ has his arm around her. They both holds scrolls which is a nod to the Song of Songs

It's a representation of Christ and his bride, the Church/the Virgin Mary, check out my post: What’s up with that? Ecclesia and Synagoga for more background.

Above Christ is the Hand of God (Manus Dei) and a dark shadow radiating towards a cross. The alignment signifies the Trinity. The couple is surrounded by 7 figures to the left of Christ is Peter.

Below all this is a belt of Apostle lambs with #AgnusDei in the center. And below that are mosaics of Mary's life, The Nativity and The Adoration of the Magi scenes.

The Basilica of Our Lady in Trastevere is said to be one of the oldest churches in Rome, dating back to the 4th century and one of two churches (the other being the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore) that claim to be the first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

View with altar

Exterior Basilica of Our Lady in Trastevere, January 2023

Links for more:

Commentary on The Apse Mosaic at Santa Maris in Trastevere

[italy2023]

May 20

Today we transferred from Venice back to Rome. It took about 4 hours on the train. This was a free day. We grab some food and stared to visit some of the places Francisco recommend that we visit. We went to Museo dell'Ara Pacis, Castel Sant'Angelo, Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, and Piazza Trilussa.

After that we went back by our hotel to grab some food for the night.