Weekend à Rome..
Galleria Borghese
Rome, often referred to as the "Eternal City," is a captivating blend of history, art, and culture that has evolved over millennia. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, its roots trace back to 753 BC, founded by the legendary first king of Rome, Romulus and his twin brother Remus.
Piazza Navona
Strolling through the cobblestone streets, one can encounter architectural wonders like the Pantheon, a former Roman temple, and the enchanting Trevi Fountain, where tradition dictates that tossing a coin ensures a return to Rome. Each corner of the city reveals layers of history, from the Renaissance to the Baroque period, making it a paradise for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.
To fully appreciate Rome's historical significance, one should take the time to not only visit these landmarks but also to immerse oneself in the local culture—savoring traditional Roman cuisine like my favorite local breakfast treat, maritozzo!
Maritozzo is a beloved traditional Roman dessert, characterized by its soft, slightly sweet brioche-like dough filled with generous amounts of fresh whipped cream. Its origins trace back to Ancient Rome, where it was originally a type of bread enriched with ingredients like honey, eggs, and butter, often enjoyed by workers as a nourishing snack. Over the centuries, the maritozzo evolved, particularly during the Middle Ages when it became a sweet treat permitted during Lent, often adorned with pine nuts and raisins.
The name "maritozzo" is derived from the Italian word "marito," meaning husband. This connection stems from a charming tradition where future husbands would gift these pastries to their fiancées, sometimes hiding a small token of affection inside, such as an engagement ring. Today, maritozzi are a popular breakfast item in Rome, often enjoyed with a cappuccino, and can be found in many cafes and pastry shops throughout the city, it even has it’s own holiday celebrated every December 1st. While there are countless spots throughout the city to enjoy this roman delight, the best one I had came from a tiny little shop in Trastevere called ‘Il Maritozzaro.’ The brioche was freshly baked and I opted for a pistachio cream drizzled on top.
While there are many museums to while away an afternoon in Rome I highly recommend a stop at the Villa Farnesina, a notable Renaissance villa located in the Trastevere district of Rome, built between 1506 and 1510 for Agostino Chigi, a wealthy Sienese banker. Designed by architect Baldassare Peruzzi, the villa features a unique U-shaped layout and is renowned for its exquisite frescoes by Raphael and other prominent artists of the time. We also booked a private tour of the Vatican Museum one morning called, “Breakfast at the Vatican”. It was our first time visiting the Vatican museum so we opted for as much intimacy with the collection as possible and this tour did not dissapoint. We were entirely alone in the galleries culminating in a private tour of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel.
Vatican Museum
Villa Farnesina
With its rich tapestry of history, art, and culinary delights, Rome offers a sensory feast that captivates every visitor. From sipping cappuccinos at La Casa del Caffè Tazza d'Oro with a view to the Pantheon to enjoying a leisurely evening strolling along the Tiber, every moment in Rome is steeped in a unique blend of ancient history and modern delights. This enchanting city not only promises unforgettable experiences but also leaves an indelible mark on the soul, making it an irresistible destination for anyone seeking to embrace the sweet life.
