Family Adventure in the Heart of Rome

Whispers of History, Echoes of Today

Today in Rome felt like stepping through a series of historical postcards, each one more vibrant than the last. From the imposing Castel Sant'Angelo to the bustling Campo de' Fiori, every corner held a story waiting to be discovered. It was a day of contrasts, where ancient grandeur met the lively spirit of modern Rome, creating an experience that was both enriching and utterly captivating.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina. The aroma of freshly baked bread and cured meats filled the air, a perfect start to fuel our explorations. I opted for a simple yet satisfying cornetto and cappuccino, while Pieter enjoyed a selection of local cheeses and prosciutto. Sofia, ever the food enthusiast, devoured a slice of their famous pizza bianca. This place is truly a gem, a culinary haven where tradition meets innovation, setting the tone for a day steeped in Roman culture.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry in the heart of Rome.

Our first stop was Castel Sant'Angelo, a formidable structure that has witnessed centuries of Roman history. Originally built as Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum in the 2nd century AD, it later transformed into a papal fortress, a prison, and now a museum. As we approached, its imposing cylindrical form dominated the skyline, a testament to its enduring presence. Sofia was immediately intrigued by the stories of emperors and popes who once walked these halls. The sheer scale of the building was awe-inspiring, and I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like within its walls during different eras.


Discover the rich history and breathtaking views of Castel Sant'Angelo, a stunning fortress and museum in the heart of Rome.

Inside, we wandered through opulent halls adorned with Renaissance frescoes and intricate tapestries. The climb to the top was well worth the effort, as we were rewarded with panoramic views of Rome stretching out before us. From this vantage point, we could see the Vatican, the Tiber River winding its way through the city, and countless other landmarks that make Rome so unique. I tried to capture the moment with my camera, hoping to freeze this breathtaking vista in time. Even though it was February, the Roman sun was kind, casting a warm glow over the city. I made a mental note to buy a power adapter, as I had forgotten mine at home and was constantly running low on battery.

Leaving Castel Sant'Angelo, we strolled across Ponte Sant'Angelo, a bridge that is as much a work of art as it is a functional structure. Originally built by Emperor Hadrian to provide access to his mausoleum, the bridge is now adorned with ten stunning angel statues, each holding a symbol of Christ's Passion. These sculptures, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and his students, are a breathtaking sight, their marble forms gleaming in the sunlight.


Discover the historical beauty of Ponte Sant'Angelo, a stunning bridge adorned with angelic statues connecting Rome's heart to Castel Sant'Angelo.

As we walked across the bridge, I found myself captivated by the expressions on the angels' faces, each one conveying a sense of sorrow and reverence. Sofia was fascinated by the details of each statue, pointing out the various symbols they held – the crown of thorns, the nails, the cross. It was a powerful reminder of the city’s rich religious history and artistic heritage. The Ponte Sant'Angelo has undergone extensive restoration recently, and its newly refreshed marble shone, a testament to its centuries-old identity. It was fascinating to learn that Pope Gregory I saw the Archangel Michael appear on top of the mausoleum in 590 CE, signaling the end of the plague, which led to the structure being named Castel Sant'Angelo and, by association, the bridge as well.

Rome is not merely a city; it is a living museum, where every stone whispers tales of emperors, artists, and saints.

Our next destination was Campo de' Fiori, a vibrant marketplace that has been the heart of Roman life for centuries. As we entered the square, we were immediately engulfed in a cacophony of sounds and colors. Vendors hawked their wares, from fresh produce and flowers to local delicacies and souvenirs. The air was filled with the aroma of spices, cheeses, and freshly baked bread. It was a feast for the senses, a true immersion into the energy of modern Rome.


Explore the vibrant Campo de' Fiori in Rome, a lively market square filled with fresh produce, rich history, and authentic Italian culture.

Campo de' Fiori has a dark side as well. It was once a site for public executions, including that of philosopher Giordano Bruno, who was burned at the stake here in 1600 for his denial of core catholic values. I found myself drawn to the statue of Giordano Bruno, a somber figure standing in the center of the square. His gaze seemed to penetrate the chaos around him, a reminder of the intellectual and religious conflicts that have shaped Rome's history. Sofia was curious about the statue, and I explained to her the story of Bruno and his courageous defense of his beliefs. It was a poignant moment, a reminder of the importance of standing up for what you believe in, even in the face of adversity.

We wandered through the market stalls, sampling local cheeses, olives, and cured meats. Sofia was particularly taken with the colorful flower stalls, their blooms adding a touch of beauty to the bustling scene. I picked up a few souvenirs for friends back home, including a bottle of olive oil and a packet of truffle salt. It was a challenge to navigate the crowds, but the energy of the market was infectious, and we found ourselves swept up in the lively atmosphere. It's interesting to know that Campo de' Fiori means “field of flowers” in Italian, a nod to its origins as a meadow before it became a public square in the 15th century.

For lunch, we decided to try Il Gabriello, a restaurant known for its creative and inventive cuisine. Pieter had read about it in Rick Steves's book and was eager to try it. The restaurant was a bit hard to find, tucked away on a side street, but it was well worth the effort. The ambiance was elegant and refined, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. We started with a selection of antipasti, including grilled squid and artichoke hearts. For our main courses, I opted for the spaghetti carbonara, while Pieter chose the sea bass. The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art. Sofia, surprisingly, devoured the grilled squid, declaring it her favorite dish of the day.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Il Gabriello in Rome—where tradition meets taste in an enchanting setting.

After lunch, we indulged in a bit of retail therapy at Galleria Alberto Sordi, a stunning shopping arcade located on Via del Corso. Named after the beloved Italian actor, the gallery is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture, its soaring glass ceiling and ornate details creating a sense of grandeur. We strolled through the boutiques, admiring the displays of high-end fashion, jewelry, and accessories. Sofia was particularly excited to visit Hamleys, the famous British toy store, while Pieter was drawn to the Mondadori Bookstore. It was fascinating to learn that the Galleria was originally designed in the early 1900s by the architect Dario Carbone and was initially named Galleria Colonna. In 2003, it was renamed in honor of Alberto Sordi.


Experience shopping at its finest in the heart of Rome at Galleria Alberto Sordi, where luxury meets historic charm.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back to our hotel, stopping for a gelato along the way. The creamy sweetness was the perfect ending to a day filled with exploration and discovery. Back at the 47 Boutique Hotel, we took a moment to relax and reflect on our experiences. It had been a day of contrasts, where ancient history met modern life, where somber reflections mingled with joyful discoveries.


Experience luxury and comfort at 47 Boutique Hotel, a chic oasis in Rome's city center, near iconic landmarks and vibrant local culture.

For dinner, we decided to try That's Amore Restaurant, a pizzeria known for its spectacular service and comfortable atmosphere. The restaurant was located just behind the Trevi Fountain, and we were lucky to snag a table without a reservation. The aroma of wood-fired pizza filled the air, and we were soon presented with a menu filled with tempting options. We ordered a selection of pizzas to share, including a classic Margherita, a truffle pizza, and a pesto pizza. The pizzas were delicious, the crusts thin and crispy, the toppings fresh and flavorful. Sofia was particularly taken with the lasagna, declaring it the best she had ever tasted. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to end our day in Rome, a celebration of good food, good company, and the simple pleasures of life.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at That's Amore Restaurant in Rome – where every dish tells a story!

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience Rome with my family. It's a city that has captured my heart, a place where history comes alive and where every corner holds a surprise. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Trastevere, visit the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, and admire the Villa Farnesina. I'm already looking forward to another day of Roman adventures. I'm also looking forward to visiting FRENI E FRIZIONI, a bar in Trastevere, as I've heard great things about it.

I’m also reminded that February in Rome is quite eventful, with the Jubilee celebrations continuing, including the Jubilee of Artists and the World of Culture. Furthermore, for rugby fans, Italy will be hosting matches at Rome's Stadio Olimpico this February for the Six Nations Rugby Championship.

Good night from Rome!