Family Adventure Through the Eternal City: Rome

Whispers of Angels and Emperors

Today in Rome, it felt like stepping directly into the pages of a history book, a truly immersive experience that left me in awe. The city's ancient stones seemed to whisper tales of emperors and popes, of battles and triumphs, and of the enduring spirit of human creativity. It was a day filled with architectural marvels, artistic beauty, and culinary delights, all shared with my wonderful family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Old Bear. This charming restaurant, tucked away on a quiet Roman alley, was recommended to us by a local, and it didn't disappoint. The cozy atmosphere, reminiscent of a rustic cabin, was the perfect setting to fuel up for a day of exploration. I opted for a classic Roman breakfast of cornetto and cappuccino, while Emily enjoyed some scrambled eggs, and Oliver, of course, had his usual chocolate croissant. I made a mental note to try their truffle lasagna next time – it sounds divine!.

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we set off towards our first destination: Castel Sant'Angelo. As we approached, the sheer scale of the structure was breathtaking. Originally built as Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum in 139 AD , it has served many roles throughout its long history – a fortress, a papal residence, a prison, and now a museum. As a historical reenactor, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the past as I imagined Hadrian himself walking these very grounds. The kids were suitably impressed as well, especially Oliver, who was fascinated by the idea of a building that had once been a tomb for emperors.


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

Inside, we explored the various levels of the Castel, each offering a glimpse into a different era of Roman history. The architecture is a fascinating blend of Roman imperial design and medieval military architecture. We climbed winding staircases, admired the Renaissance-style papal apartments, and marveled at the panoramic views of Rome from the rooftop terrace. From up there, we could see the entire city spread out before us, from the Vatican to the Colosseum. It was truly a sight to behold.

Rome is a city where the past and present intertwine, creating a tapestry of history, art, and culture that is both captivating and inspiring.

After thoroughly exploring Castel Sant'Angelo, we made our way to Ponte Sant'Angelo, the bridge that leads directly to the Castel. Built by Emperor Hadrian in 134 AD , the bridge is adorned with ten magnificent angel statues, each holding a symbol of Christ's Passion. These statues, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and his students , are truly works of art, and they add a sense of grandeur and spirituality to the bridge. As we strolled across, I found myself reflecting on the history of this place – a bridge that has witnessed centuries of Roman life, from imperial processions to papal pilgrimages.


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

I explained to Oliver that the statues of St. Peter and St. Paul stand guard at the entrance to the bridge , representing the spiritual foundation of the Church. The angels, each carrying an emblem of Jesus's death and suffering, were commissioned by Pope Clement VII in the 16th century. The bridge was once a place of execution, where bodies were displayed as a warning.

For lunch, we had reservations at Ristorante Il Fellini, a charming spot known for its authentic Roman cuisine and its location near Via Veneto. The restaurant's walls are adorned with movie posters , paying homage to the great filmmaker Federico Fellini. We started with a selection of antipasti, including bruschetta, fried zucchini flowers and some delicious artichokes. For our main courses, Emily opted for the cacio e pepe, Oliver had the spaghetti al pomodoro, and I chose the carbonara – when in Rome, right? The food was simply divine, and the service was impeccable.


Discover Ristorante Il Fellini: An authentic Italian restaurant in Rome offering exquisite dishes and a warm atmosphere perfect for any occasion.

After lunch, Emily suggested we do a little shopping. So, we headed to Galleria Alberto Sordi, a stunning shopping arcade located in the heart of Rome, just off Via del Corso. Named after the famous Italian actor, the Galleria is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau architecture , with a soaring stained-glass ceiling and elegant shops. While Emily browsed the latest fashions, Oliver was captivated by the Hamleys toy store. I was impressed by the mix of Italian and international brands , and the overall atmosphere of elegance and sophistication. The Galleria Alberto Sordi was renovated in early 2024, and it now hosts 15 commercial establishments. We stopped at the pastry shop of Iginio Massari, and I couldn't resist trying a couple of their delectable pastries.


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

As evening approached, we made our way back to the 939 Hotel to freshen up before dinner. For our final meal of the day, I managed to secure a reservation at Mirabelle, a Michelin-recommended restaurant located on the top floor of the Hotel Splendide Royal. Known for its breathtaking views of Rome , Mirabelle did not disappoint. As we sipped on our aperitifs, we watched the sun set over the city, casting a golden glow on the ancient monuments below. The food was exquisite , a modern take on classic Italian dishes. I started with the seafood risotto, followed by the roasted lamb, while Emily enjoyed the homemade pasta and the grilled sea bass. Oliver, surprisingly, opted for the steak – he's definitely developing a taste for the finer things in life!


Discover exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at Mirabelle in Rome, where stunning views meet culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll back to our hotel, savoring the cool night air and the sounds of the city. Rome at night is a magical place, with its ancient streets illuminated by soft lights, and its piazzas filled with the chatter of locals and tourists alike. As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience, for the opportunity to share it with my family, and for the memories we were creating together.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Trastevere , a charming neighborhood known for its narrow streets, lively atmosphere, and traditional Roman restaurants. We'll visit the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere , wander through the cobblestone streets, and soak up the local culture. I'm also hoping to find a cozy little bar where I can sample some local wine and perhaps even catch a live music performance. Emily is keen to explore the artisan shops and boutiques, while Oliver is simply excited to try some more gelato. I'm also hoping to check out The Hole Trastevere , a bar I read about that's supposed to have a fantastic atmosphere.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the adventures that await us in the days to come. Rome is a city that truly captivates the senses, and I feel so lucky to be able to experience it with my loved ones. Good night from the Eternal City!