The Colosseum remains one of tourism's most visited sites. |
Photos by Bruce Keller
"Rome doesn't compete. Rome just watches all the fussing and striving, completely unfazed. I am inspired by the regal self-assurance of this city, so grounded and rounded, so amused and monumental, knowing she is held securely in the palm of history. I would like to be like Rome when I am an old lady.” Elizabeth Gilbert, author of "Eat, Pray, Love"
The sights, sounds smells and tastes of Rome linger long after one leaves her.
Is there a city more unique? Some might say New York, London, Stockholm, Rio, Bangkok or Paris. All have their graces and enticements.
Is there a city more exciting?
I've been around the block and most of the world, and I can't think of one.
Rome's mix of decorum and cutting edge, excitement and calm, hipness and history holds it dear to my heart and the hearts of thousands of other poets, painters and tourists dating back hundreds of years.
Pope Francis now calls Rome home. |
Rome's stately buildings inspire and fascinate, here against a perfect summer sky. |
Cookie and Keller at the Trevi Fountain, before the coin toss which guarantees their return! |
Rome endures, literally layering the old upon the new. The original city is 25 "layers" beneath modern Rome. One looks down a several-story excavation to see the site where Julius Caesar was assassinated.
I try to get my Rome hit at least once a year. I'm always reminded of her constancy and her ability to adapt and embrace the new.
I remember having my fanny pinched in the early morning hours when my girlfriend Susan and I hopped off in Milan for a slice of pizza.
Rome's architecture continues to change and grow, as ruins are discovered and old buildings restored. |
Ice cream in Rome is simply a must. |
A buggy driver pauses to go on line. |
Pause in a Roman holiday. |
"Not so very old," she said. "It is only 14th Century."
Recently, we stayed in a lovely harbor suite at Hotel Martini in Olbia, Italia, on the island of Sardinia. We'd flown from Atlanta to Roma, then spent six hours touring the grounds surrounding the Colosseum with old friend Lucilla, who has her doctorate in ancient Roman history. Back on the plane to Sardinia, with a quick shower and dinner in the old center. Finally we slept after 36 hours, enjoyed a restorative breakfast of cheeses, prosciutto, brown bread, yogurt, figs and cappuccino. A couple museums, a stop in a local market, pasta in the piazza and plenty of red wine.
Rome's museums, fountains, squares and government buildings are legendary. |
Hollyhocks in their glory, at High Chaparral in Montana. |
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