In early May three years ago the Italian lockdown began to ease and for the first time in two months an unfettered solo walk was allowed. Which was just the thing I was yearning for more than anything else. I set off from Pigneto and walked and walked (and walked) through the deserted, still-shuttered city in the spring sunshine under absurdly blue skies.
Dear Agnes - Such a happy coincidence that you posted pictures of Santa Maria in Portico. The last time I was in Roma, my sister and I came across this church on a very hot afternoon. We did not go very far into the nave as there were a number of people praying, but we were both quite struck by the unique (glass?) sarcophagus/reliquary to our left (when you face the alter). I noticed a couple pictures of it posted when I googled the church in order to be certain it was the same location. Somehow, I really liked the feel of this particular church. It contained many baroque decorations, but unlike some other churches (say the Gesu) it felt more 'balanced' between decoration and spaces where the eyes could rest. It was for me (as you say) one of the quintessentially unplanned Roman experiences that never cease to surprise you.
Great pictures! I was in Rome last summer. I wish it were as uncrowded as it was in 2020! Well, Ostia was nearly empty, because it was July and about 38C. Although I've been to Rome several times I still haven't made it to Tivoli and Santa Maria in Trastevere. It'll happen some day!
May's Monthly Newsletter
Dear Agnes - Such a happy coincidence that you posted pictures of Santa Maria in Portico. The last time I was in Roma, my sister and I came across this church on a very hot afternoon. We did not go very far into the nave as there were a number of people praying, but we were both quite struck by the unique (glass?) sarcophagus/reliquary to our left (when you face the alter). I noticed a couple pictures of it posted when I googled the church in order to be certain it was the same location. Somehow, I really liked the feel of this particular church. It contained many baroque decorations, but unlike some other churches (say the Gesu) it felt more 'balanced' between decoration and spaces where the eyes could rest. It was for me (as you say) one of the quintessentially unplanned Roman experiences that never cease to surprise you.
Rome is a beautiful place. It was interesting for me to read about your adventure and see the pictures.😺
Great pictures! I was in Rome last summer. I wish it were as uncrowded as it was in 2020! Well, Ostia was nearly empty, because it was July and about 38C. Although I've been to Rome several times I still haven't made it to Tivoli and Santa Maria in Trastevere. It'll happen some day!
Wonderful, you take the most marvellous photographs. Many thanks.
Glorious! Thank you!
It’s always a welcome treat to find a quiet corner in the centre of Rome. I’m a fan of piazza delle coppelle for a quiet afternoon nibble
I thought I recognized Villa d'Este. Had an amazing birthday there!