ItalyTravelista

Caravaggio 2010 Rome Exhibition | The Dark Genius of Caravaggio

ItalyTravelista — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 19:05:27 +0000

Caravaggio Exbition in Rome

Opens today at the Scuderie del Quirinale in Rome an amazing Caravaggio exhibition to mark the 400th anniversary of the death of the great baroque artist Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, hailed by many as the father of modern painting.

The Caravaggio exhibition in Rome brings for the first time together from galleries and museums across the world only those masterpieces historically verified to be by Caravaggio. Thus visitors will enjoy one of Caravaggio earliest masterpieces “The Boy with a Basket of Fruit” (1593) alongside his famous “Bacchus” (c.1595) from the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, and the lesser known still life “Basket of Fruit” (c.1599) which has never before traveled out of the Biblioteca Ambrosiana in Milan.

Among the 24 masterpieces art lovers visiting Rome will admire “David with the Head of Goliath” (c.1610) from the Borghese Gallery in Rome, the “Musicians” (1595) from the Metropolitan Museum in New York, the “Lute Player” (c.1596) from the Hermitage in St.Petersburg, “Amor Vincit Omnia” (1601-1602) from the Staatliche Museum in Berlin, and the newly discovered “Taking of Christ” (c.1602) from the National Gallery of Ireland. Unfortunately due to disagreements won’t be part of the show “Saint Catherine of Alexandria” from the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid and the huge “The Burial of Saint Lucia” from the Santa Lucia Church in Siracusa.

Caravaggio exhibition at the Scuderie Papali del Quirinale is open every day from 10 AM to 8 PM or until 10.30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, until June 13, 2010. Tickets cost Euro 10,00

When in Rome if you are planning to enjoy more Caravaggio gems visit The Casino di Villa Boncompagni Ludovisi in Porta Pinciana to admire “Jupiter, Neptune and Pluto” the only mural ever done by Caravaggio, the Church of St. Louis of the French to admire the cycle of paintings in the Contarelli Chapel, painted by Caravaggio in 1599-1600 about the life of St. Matthew, and the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo to visit the Cerasi Chapel and admire the “Crucifixion of St. Peter” and “Conversion on the Way to Damascus”.

Tickets, Location & Info:

Scuderie del Quirinale

MondoMostre

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips and pictures with us? Please write us your comment and I will be happy to post it! Buon Viaggio!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

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Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours specializes in personalized private guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers including Caravaggio exhibition private guided tours led by qualified official Rome tour guides.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours.

Rome off the beaten Path

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Barracco Museum in Rome | Rome Off the Beaten Path Attractions

ItalyTravelista — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 15:41:18 +0000

Ancient Rome Art Lovers | Barracco museum in Rome

Just off Camp de Fiori in the heart Rome an enchanting Renaissance palace designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger between 1516 and 1523 houses the little known Barracco Museum and its fine collection of priceless ancient sculptures.

The Museo Barracco located in the Farnesina Palace on the Street of the trunk makers features a prestigious collection of sculptures and art from ancient civilizations including Assyrian, Egyptian, Cypriot, Phoenician, Etruscan, Greek and Roman works, which Giovanni Barracco, a rich Italian nobleman, donated to the Municipality of Rome in 1904.

Portrait of a woman from Palmyra Third Century A.D.

The Barracco museum hosts over 400 artworks, all very attractive, and makes a great half day tour in Rome just off the beaten path right between Campo dè Fiori and Navona square! The Barracco Museum due to its size and location offers families with kids and teens an alternative to bigger museums in Rome while providing an excellent introduction to Egyptian, Greek and Roman art and history.

Greek works at the Barracco Museum in Rome | Rome museums

The course of the Rome museum visit begins with the Egyptian art, followed by the Mesopotamian, Cypriot and Etruscan art, ending with the Greek-Roman art, including Greek originals from the 5th Century BC, Roman remakes of Greek originals and Roman Art.

The Greek collection at the Barracco museum provides an in-depth overview of the great sculptor Polyclitus and his school. Roman art is represented by the head of a boy from the Julian family, an elegant example of private portraiture from the early imperial era (First Century AD).

Barracco Museum | Ephebus by Policleto

This historical journey through the evolution of ancient sculpture, which Baron Barracco called in one of his writings “the mother of all arts”, ends with a polychrome mosaic of the Church of Rome, the famous Ecclesia Romana, from the ancient Basilica of St. Peter in Rome.

Barracco Museum in Rome | Nero Child First Century A.D.

INFO:

Museo Barracco

Corso Vittorio Emanuele 166/A – 00186 Roma

Opening hours Tuesday-sunday 9.00am-7.00pm; 24th and 31st of December 9.00am-2.00pm (the ticket office closes an hour in advance)

Closed Monday, 1st January, 1st May and 25th December

What’s Nearby for Foodies:

Roscioli Restaurant & Deli | Via dei Giubbonari

Enoteca Corsi | Via del Gesu’ 87 | Tel. 066 790821

Forno di Campo de Fiori

Enoteca Cul de Sac

Casa Bleve

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips and pictures with us? Please write us your comment and I will be happy to post it! Buon Viaggio!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Join ItalyTravelista on Twitter

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours specializes in personalized private guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers including Barracco Museum family friendly Rome tours.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours.

Barracco Museum in Rome | Romana Ecclesia from the ancient Basilica of St. Peter

A short stroll from Campo dei Fiori Market: The Barracco museum an off the beaten track attraction in Rome.

Barracco Museum | Campo de Fiori Food Market

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Where to Stay in Rome | Bed and Breakfast Lodging near St. Peter | Italy Travel

ItalyTravelista — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:20:00 +0000

Bed & Breakfast in/around Saint Peter | Rome Travel

When visiting Rome why settle for a hotel room when you can experience the real hospitality of a home in Rome? From cheap to chic Rome offers a wide selection of bed & breakfast accommodations often preferred to hotels by the savvy Rome traveler not only for the quality and value offered but also for the opportunity of a cultural exchange with the host.

B&Bs located near the Vatican City and St. Peter are an ideal starting point to tour Rome and the Vatican treasures, explore Rome’s rich heritage and discover Rome traditional food.

Arches Bed & Breakfast |

Arches B&B is located in the Prati area a short walk from the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Square offering large rooms finely furnished at very reasonable rate. Two rooms (Blue/Green) have hardwood floors and overlook a vera nice veranda. Not all the rooms have en-suite bathrooms.

Arte & Studio Bed & Breakfast |

AeS B&B is located in one of the oldest areas around St. Peter’s Square but offers XXI century design and comfort from the elegant furniture and modern artworks to free wifi and TV Sat.

Excellent rates but closed February, October and November.

Best B&B Vatican |

Best Vatican B&B is conveniently located 50 meters from the Metro stop Ottaviano-San Pietro and a few minutes walk from the St. Peter’s Basilica. This small B&B, only 4 rooms, offers stylish accommodation in a very pleasant environment with all the tech amenities required by the twitter-era traveler including free Wi-Fi.

B&B Bibi & Romeo’s Home |

Bibi and Romeo used to run a very good restaurant in Rome but decided to take a new challenge and now own and operate this very nice Bed & Breakfast located just a short walk from the Vatican City offering 4 well decorated rooms all with en-suite bath and free internet access. Bibi and Romeo will let you feel at home in Rome with their hospitality and kindness.

B&B Nicolo III a San Pietro |

This newly renovated small B&B, 3 rooms all with private bath, located in a elegant street a stone’s throw from the Vatican is run with love and courtesy by Francesca and Stefano. Nicolò III is a very simple, cheerful and clean bed & breakfast where to relax after a long day visiting the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

The Pope’s Window B&B |

The Pope’s Windows is a new and charming bed and breakfast located in a early XX century building near the Vatican State. From its windows guests will enjoy a terrific view of St Peter’s colonnade and the window from where the Pope gives Sunday Blessing. In all rooms the ceilings are decorated with elegant and beautiful stuccoes and the floor retains the original tiles which together make up a mosaic embellished with beautiful patterns and colors. Only 3 rooms available.

Villino Cecilia B&B |

Bed and breakfast Villino Cecilia is a very nice 19th century villa located in a quiet and peaceful alley along the Vatican walls. Villino Cecilia offers 6 apartments tastefully furnished each one with its own kitchen ranging from 1 to 3 bedrooms designed to welcome from 2 to 10 guests. Lodging at Villino is probably the best choice for families and small groups visiting Rome. Villino Cecilia near the Vatican offers lots of specials and last minute offers. Don’t miss the lovely garden where to enjoy a romantic Rome dinner.

B&B Liberty Rome |

The B&B Liberty Rome is located in a beautiful Liberty building designed renowned Italian architect M. Piacentini. The 3 rooms have all comforts to make you feel at home and are very well decorated. Lots of charme and an attentive service make this small B&B, located in a busy commercial street a great place to spot the locals and live Rome’s everyday life like a Roman.

Bed and Breakfast Bio |

Looking for a bio B&B in Rome? B&B Bio is located in a residential area rich with greenery gardens and parks and has been recently renovated using only natural paints. B&B Bio is the first Rome’s B&B certified by the Italian Association for Celiach and of course serves organic food for breakfast on its lovely terrace. The 3 bedrooms with en suite baths are very elegant and comfortable.

Looking to visit St. Peter and the Vatican? Visit my post A day at the Vatican for tips and suggestions.

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips or pictures with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

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Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours is based in Rome and specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours for consent and further info.

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Where to Stay in Rome | Convent and Monastery Accommodation in Rome | Travel to Italy

ItalyTravelista — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:59:02 +0000

Travel to Rome | Tour Rome with Nancy Aiello Tours

Convents and monasteries in Rome are blessed and restful alternatives to Rome’s hotels and B&Bs. These religious accommodations usually located in Rome’s historic center offer tight security, spic-and-span bathrooms, often some of the cheapest room rates in Rome plus a sense of spirituality and peace that more than reward for any inconvenience, making convents and monasteries in Rome an attractive budget alternative for lodging in the heart of Italy. Staying in a convent or a monastery offers Rome visitors the opportunity to experience an unusual Rome and make a Rome trip a memorable journey. Convents accept women, men and families with children, but make sure to check in advance if the convent enforces any night curfew.

Out of the 200 or so lodging and accommodations run by religious orders, monks and nuns in Rome this is ItalyTravelista list for a holy Roman holiday.

Casa Bonus Pastor | Vatican Area | No Curfew |

The Casa Bonus Pastor it’s owned by the Vatican but is in all respects a 3 star superior hotel located a short walk from St. Peter’s square. 88 well appointed rooms with only single beds available, a very nice garden and good Italian restaurant make this place an excellent choice to explore Rome and the Vatican without breaking the bank.

Casa di San Giuseppe | Trastevere Area | No Curfew |

The charming Casa San Giuseppe is located in the popular and very central Trastevere quarter, in the heart of historic Rome. It used to be a convent and after lengthy and careful renovations now offers very nice rooms, a spacious parking and free wi-fi at very reasonable rates.

Casa di Santa Francesca Romana | Trastevere Area | No Curfew |

The 600-year-old Casa di Santa Francesca Romana near the Ponte Rotto in Trastevere offers 37 clean and nice rooms in a quiet and stress free environment overlooking medieval buildings and the luscious garden where to enjoy breakfast in the warmer months.

Casa di Santa Brigida | Campo dè Fiori | No Curfew |

The fabulous Farnese Square hosts one of the most beautiful and expensive religious lodge available in Rome. The House of Saint Bridget, a splendid XV century building, houses people of all nationalities and creed but due to its antique furnitures, its lovely terrace and its rich library the 20 room convent could be mistaken for an up-market boutique hotel rather than a religious lodge. Be aware that Santa Brigida is not equipped for disabled guests.

Casa Suore Preziossimo Sangue | Vatican Area | Nightly Curfew |

The nuns of the Preziossimo sangue have recently renovated their convent offering 20 spotless rooms designed in a modern minimal chic style. Very clean rooms equipped with Internet connection, TV and A/C provide very good comfort a short distance from the Vatican. Guests can join the morning mass in the convent chapel but must be home by 11 PM in winter and by midnight in summer.

More Convents and Monasteries in Rome opening their doors to paying guests:

Monastero di Sant’ Antonio Abate | Aventine Hill | Nightly Curfew |

Via S.Sabina, 64

Tel. (011 39) 065745528

Rates: Double E.64

Suore Mantellate Serve di Maria | Navona Square Area | Nightly Curfew |

Via S. Giuseppe Calasanzio, 1
Tel. (011 39) 0668803344
E-mail: s.giulianafalconieri@virgilio.it

Rates: Double E.81

Casa di Accoglienza Santo Spirito | Vatican Area | Nightly Curfew |

Borgo S. Spirito, 41
Tel. (011 39) 066861076

Rates: Double E.81/Single E.35

Casa di Accoglienza Paolo VI | Vatican Area | Nightly Curfew |

Viale Vaticano, 92
Tel. (011 39) 0639091411

Rates: Double E.60/Single E.35

Villa Lante Istituto del Sacro Cuore | Trastevere Area | Nightly Curfew

Via San Francesco di Sales, 18

Tel. (011 39) 0668806032

Rates: Double E.80/Single E.50

To learn more about religious accommodations in Rome visit http://www.santasusanna.org/comingToRome/convents.html for advice and suggestions. To learn more about Rome visit Rome’s Tourism website.

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips or pictures with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it! Enjoy Rome!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Twitter.com/ItalyTravelista

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours for consent and further info.

St. Brigida Convent in Farnese Square | Nancy Aiello Tours Rome Travel

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Welcome to Rome | Travel Rome Tips | Tour Rome like a Local

ItalyTravelista — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 20:08:35 +0000

Rome Travel Tips | Tour Rome Like a Local

Welcome to Rome! Discover the Eternal City of Rome and her ancient history, roam Rome narrow alleys and baroque squares, explore the artistic masterpieces and the architectural beauties hidden behind every corner, enjoy Rome traditional food and lively restaurants where the Romans eat!

Rome is a very safe place just make sure to follow these Nancy Aiello’s simple travel tips to enjoy touring Rome like a local and get the most out of your Roman holiday!

Rome to/from Airport | Flat Rate

Taking a Cab in Rome

Check the rates by visiting the Official Rome Tourism Website

Need a cab? You will find taxi stands all over Rome or you can dial 060609 to book one. I personally enjoy a local taxi company called Cooperativa Samarcanda

When in Rome only use licensed vehicles that display the TAXI sign on the roof
Only use metered taxi. If the meter is off ask the taxi driver to switch it on before the ride
Official licensed Roman taxis are white with a taxi sign on the roof and the driver’s name and licensed number on the door
There is an extra charge for late-night taxi from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. and additional fee for every piece of luggage larger than 35×25x50 Centimeters Euro 1,00/Each, the first is FREE

Traveling to/from Rome Fiumicino airport (FCO) and/or Ciampino Airport (CIA)

Take advantage of the flat rate! E.40 to/from Fiumicino & Rome within the Aurelian Walls

Take advantage of the flat rate! E.30 to/from Ciampino & Rome within the Aurelian Walls

Disagreement over the taxi bill? Report the taxi plate or the license number to the nearest Municipal Police or State Police or Carabinieri Station or call 060608 from 9am to 9pm or send an e-mail to segnalazioni@0606008.it

Tour Rome by Public Transportation

Buses in Rome:

ATAC Roma website is finally available in English and offers a lot of info on costs, itineraries, best way to get from point A to point B, and more! Key in your itinerary to learn distance and approx. length of the journey.

For more info & prices check also ItalyTravelista previous post: When in Rome | Getting Around by Bus

Rome Metro (subway & regional trains):

This is the site specifically for the Rome subway and regional trains showing maps and schedules. There is also a handy pdf file you can download and print that shows a map of the entire subway and light rail system in Rome.

The Metro in Rome runs Sunday to Friday from 5.30am to 11.30pm and Saturday from 5.30am to 12.30 am

Rome Hop On Hop Off Tours | Hope on Hop off in the Vatican

Hop on Hop off Rome tours:

Links to the major tourist hop on hop off operators in Rome to check maps, costs, stops and terms.

Open 110 & Archeobus

Chistian Rome

Green Line Tours

Shopping in Rome

Any item in any shop’s window must indicate a legible written display of the price (all taxes included).
The price must be indicated on any item regardless it is a small Trevi Fountain souvenir or an expensive fur.
Always ask for a receipt of your purchases
Always check with the store assistant or the owner if the shop provides VAT refund for purchases made in Italy by EU non-resident subjects
Changed your mind? Make sure to keep the receipt and return it with the purchased item/s. Please Note: Additional Terms may apply for on-sale items

Eating in Rome | Check the price list first

Eating in Rome

Need to get an idea on how much you’re going to spend eating out in Rome?

By law restaurants, bars, cafes, wine bars, deli shops, market stalls and so on are obliged to display the price list in euro and in certain circumstances the unit price (the price per kilogram) for all products
By law menus or food lists must include the price of each individual item, including the dishes of the day
Bread is free of charge, and there should be no cover charge
Always ask for a receipt and check that prices match those stated in the menu
Frozen food or dishes using frozen ingredients should always be clearly reported in the menu, usually with asterisks (*) or small stars
Italy offers very good wines that you can enjoy by the glass or by the bottle! Always ask for the wine list and check the prices in order to avoid unwelcome surprises
In the event of a disagreement over the bill call the Municipal Police (Vigili Urbani)
Remember that any guest in a restaurant is entitled to order just one course and he/she is no under any obligation to order a full meal

These short words of advice should enable any Rome visitor to enjoy Rome and get the most out of his/her Roman holiday, but would you have any further doubts about Rome please visit the nearest Rome Tourist Information Point or call 0606008

If you encounter any difficulty just contact the Municipal Police or even just a passerby as in Rome you will always find someone who is eager to help you!

ROME USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Police: Dial 112
State Police: Dial 113
Fire & Rescue Service: Dial 115
Ambulance: Dial 118
Tourist Information: Dial 060608
ATAC Public Transport: Dial 0657 003
TAXI: Dial 060609

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips or pictures with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Join us on Twitter

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours,based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours for consent & further info.

Rome Municipal Police | Look for these 2 officers

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Travel to Rome | A Day at the Vatican | Vatican Tips

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Rome Day Trips | Charming Orvieto | Umbria Wine Tour

ItalyTravelista — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:06:49 +0000

Orvieto Day Trip from Rome | Orvieto Cathedral

Orvieto is probably one of the most beautiful hill top towns in Italy very close to Rome nestled in the heart of Umbria between rolling hills, Etruscan landscapes and views to dream about. A memorable Rome day tour excursion from Rome well suited for Rome’s independent travelers, families visiting Rome with kids and teens, and Rome layover cruise passengers.

Orvieto highlights include Orvieto’s most beautiful 14th-century Cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture, sightseeing Orvieto underground tour, 15th century Saint Patrick’s well, Orvieto impressive medieval buildings, shops in the Orvieto historical centre famous for hand crafted ceramics and pottery, and a tour of Orvieto restaurants and Orvieto wine.

MORE TO COME! ORVIETO RESTAURANTS, ACCOMMODATIONS AND SHOPS!

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Tour the Tuscan Countryside | Crete Senesi | The Clay Hills of Siena

ItalyTravelista — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:37:21 +0000

Siena Medieval Piazza del Campo | Torre del Mangia | Tower of Siena

The hill top town of Siena located in Tuscany and listed by UNESCO as World Heritage Site is one of the most charming places to visit in Italy. Sienna is world famous for the Palio, the stunning Torre del Mangia and the outstanding Duomo but when in Siena visitors should not miss the opportunity to visit the Crete Senesi, where Tuscany reveals its truest and most beautiful identity.

Crete Senesi Art of the Landscape | Tours from Siena

The Crete Senesi, the clay hills of Siena, offer a unique landscape of rolling downland that adopts the form of the senses and communicates with the force of emotions.

Clay Hills of Siena | Romantic Tuscany

Siena is separated from the Crete by a few miles and hundreds of curves, now and then its turreted profile appears on the horizon.

Siena Profile from the Crete | Travel Tuscany

The crete of Siena is a portrait that varies from red to purple in fall, becomes gray as the sky in winter, evolves to brilliant green in spring, and finally shows a dazzling yellow in summer when the wheat is already high, this is a borderland where the colors of the Crete meets with the green shoulders of Chianti offering incomparable views in this sea of land of endless wheat fields dotted with hamlets, farms, vineyards, churches and winding roads.

Memorable Colours | Crete in Siena

The appearance of the clay hills changes with the season and sunlight but the most fascinating phenomenon here is that it is enough just to walk the same street in the different directions to discover a whole different world.

Crete with a View | Hill Top Farm in the Crete Area

All the streets of these hills provide excellent spots to take pictures, to observe, to wonder, to meditate, to paint, and to fall in love!

Hills of Siena | Siena Countryside | Enjoy Tuscany Landscapes

What to See

ASCIANO – The 14th Century Abbey of Monteoliveto Maggiore the most important monastery in the Siena area, the 11th Century Saint Agata’s Basilica, the Gothic church of San Bernardino home to the Etruscan Museum and the late Gothic Church of Saint Francis, Piazza del Grano with its 15th Century travertine fountain by Paolo Ghini.

Weekly Market on Saturday | Asciano Crete Market – Second Sunday of every month

Unique Landscape of Tuscany | Crete Senesi | Clay Hills of Siena

RAPOLANO TERME – Porta dei Tintori, Piazza del Castellare, the Romanesque Church dedicated to Saint Bartolomeo, the breathtaking view over Siena’ s tower. Weekly Market on Friday

A View of the Crete from Rapolano Terme | Landscapes of Tuscany

SERRE DI RAPOLANO – The gorgeous historical center, the outstanding medieval architectural complex of Palazzo della Grangia, and its surrounding gems such as the villages of Armaiolo and Poggio Santa Cecilia, and the 12th Century Castle of Madanella.

Best Restaurants Around the Clay Hills of Siena

Da Mario | Buonconvento | Euro 25

Da Roberto Taverna in Montini | San Giovanni d’Asso | Euro 30

Il Conte Matto | Trequanda | Euro 35

Modanella | Modanella | Euro 35

La Pievina | 9 Via Lauretana Asciano | Euro 50

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips or pictures with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it! Enjoy Tuscany!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Join ItalyTravelista on Twitter

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing this article please contact Nancy Aiello Tours for consent & info.

Nancy Aiello Tours of Tuscany | Travel to Tuscany

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Rome Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls | Churches in Rome | Walking Rome Tour

ItalyTravelista — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:47:47 +0000

Early Christian Basilica | Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls

In Rome less than a mile away from the Aurelian walls raises one of the four Rome Papal Basilicas, the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls (San Paolo Fuori le Mura in Italian).

Around the year AD 65 the Apostle Paul was sentenced to death and because he was Roman, he was taken outside the walls of Rome to be executed and buried. A church was built over the spot where he was beheaded and although illegal many Christians came to pray at Saint Paul’s tomb. Once Christianity was legalized in AD 313 the Emperor Constantine built a small church over the saint’s grave. A short time later a larger basilica was built in place of Constantine’s church which was expanded again in the 8th century. Until the 16th century when a new Saint Peter’s was built to claim the title of the largest church in Christendom, Saint Paul Outside the Walls was the largest church in Rome.

Travel to Rome | Enjoy the Outstanding Beauty of Saint Paul Basilica

The church as we see today is the result of a 19th century reconstruction. In 1823 a fire destroyed the Basilica and most of the artworks adorning it. From the original basilica remained only the magnificent 14th century mosaics by Pietro Cavallini, the richly decorated ciborium by Arnolfo di Cambio, and the cloister with its Cosmati pavement.

An imposing statue of Saint Paul greets us as we enter the vast Neoclassical quadriportico (an open space surrounded by porticoes on all sides). The interior has 5 naves adorned with 80 monolithic columns from the original Basilica and frescoes. The large triumphal arch at the end of the huge nave is fully decorated with Cavallini mosaics depicting Christ’s Benediction.

St. Paul Greets You at the Entrance of the Basilica | Tour Christian Rome Basilicas

These decorations were originally found on the facade that was destroyed in the fire, but were later reinstalled after a full restoration in the 19th century. The Ciborium (canopy) by Arnolfo di Cambio that surmounts the main altar is among a masterpiece. Four columns of red porphyry, surmounted by capitals covered in gold leaf, support the meticulous decoration of the steepled roof.

The Chapel of the Most Holy Sacrament, where we can admire Carlo Maderno’s decorations, is magnificent. A visit to Saint Paul Outside the Walls is not complete without having enjoyed its beautiful cloister and strolled around its spiral columns adorned with tiny weaving of colored mosaics.

The light that filters through the palms of the neighboring garden, the silence enforced by heavy walls of the adjacent monastery, and the sound of water from the small fountain make this a place beyond time.

Unusual things to know about Saint Paul Outside the Walls:

The interior perimeter of the Basilica is decorated with medallions that depict the portraits of all Popes including Benedictus XVI. A pointed light illuminates the portrait of the current Pope.

Pope Benedictus XVI Portrait Illminated | Saint Paul Basilica

Legend has it that the world will end when the empty medallions run out. Only about 14 are left!

It always possible to recognize Saint Paul by his iconographic attributes: A sword and a book. Legend tells us that Saint Paul was a Roman soldier (hence the sword) who was converted to belief in the Holy Scriptures (the book) by an appearance of Christ on the Road to Damascus.

One of the entrance doors to the Basilica is the so-called Holy Door, made entirely of bronze. This door is opened only during Jubilee years, when it allows the Christians who pass through it to have all their sins pardoned.

Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in Rome | Visit the 4 Basilicas in Rome

Restaurants and good food near the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls:

Dar Moschino | Traditional Rome Trattoria | Garbatella Quarter | €30 No C/C

Nè Arte Nè Parte | Traditional Rome Trattoria | Testaccio Quarter | €35

Da Oio a Casa Mia | Traditional Rome Trattoria | Testaccio Quarter | €35

Osteria Fernanda | Innovative Italian Restaurant | Porta Portese Area | €35

Zampagna | Very Traditional Rome Trattoria | 179 Via Ostiense | €25 No C/C

Flavio Al Veloavedetto | Traditional Rome Trattoria | Testaccio Quarter | €35

Doppiozero | All Day Food & Wine Bar | Ostiense Quarter |

Pizza Luigi | Pizza to Go | Ostiense Quarter |

Volpetti Piu’ | All Day Food & Wine Bar | Testaccio Quarter |

Andreotti | All Day Bar & Pastry Shop | 54b Via Ostiense |

Outstanding Decorated Nave of Saint Paul Basilica | One of Four Basilicas in Rome

This is part of the Christian Tour of Rome in the footsteps of the early Christians that Nancy Aiello Tours is proud to organize for its guests and Rome lovers.

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips or pictures with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it! Buon Viaggio!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

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Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

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Saint Paul Outside the Walls | Second Largest Basilica in Rome

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Walking Rome Tour | Rome Trastevere Restaurants | Rome Delicious Bites

ItalyTravelista — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:51:37 +0000

Trastevere Walking Rome Tour | Fontanone on the Janiculum Hill overlooking Rome

Trastevere is one of the best-known areas in Rome and a place to explore little by little, discovering its stunning squares, narrow alleys, medieval churches and renaissance buildings.

Start your Trastevere stroll from the Janiculum hill and enjoy a romantic view of Rome from Il Fontanone, a huge fountain rising high above the Trastevere neighborhood, or from the charming Tiber Island, just opposite the ancient Jewish Ghetto and Jewish Modern Synagogue to enjoy Ponte Cestio, Ponte Rotto and Ponte Fabricio, Rome’s oldest bridge.

Every corner of Trastevere offers something to gladden the eye. Any tour of Trastevere should include a visit to the remarkable church of Santa Maria in Trastevere, probably the oldest church in Rome, built in the 4th century and then restored in the 8th century and again in the 11th century. This Basilica hosts a number of masterpieces, from the mosaics in the apse by Pietro Cavallini to the 13th century facade.

Remarkable St. Mary Basilica in Trastevere | Tour Rome by Night

Not far from here the16th Century Villa Farnesina is a must see adorned with artworks by Raphael and Sebastiano del Piombo, but all along Via della Lungara starting from the late 15th century Porta Settimiana to the renaissance Palazzo Salviati is a off the beaten track walking tour of Rome that should not be missed. Going back to Viale Trastevere after walking through a maze of narrow alleys in the most medieval part of Trastevere Rome lovers will find the beautiful 9th century Church of Santa Cecilia, built on top of ancient Rome Baths, with its luscious gardens, 13th century frescoes and outstanding early Christian catacombs, and the nearby Church of San Francesco a Ripa housing the sculpture of Blessed Ludovica Albertoni crafted by an elderly Bernini in 1674.

It’s now Dinner Time in Trastevere! When in Rome where to eat in Trastevere?

This is ItalyTavelista personal best wine and dine restaurants guide to the Trastevere quarter but if you’re looking for a Pizzeria in Trastevere you can check this Rome Best Pizzeria post.

Best Restaurants in Trastevere

A’ Ciaramira

Good Seafood and Seasonal Vegetarian Dishes
Best Bets: Raw Fish | Seafood Pasta
Price 65€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating 76/100

Antica Pesa

Definitely one of best restaurants in Trastevere.
Excellent Roman Food and Great Wines!
Best Bet: Pasta Cacio e Pepe
Price 65€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating 76/100 | L’Espresso Wine Cellar of the Year 2010

Delicious Prawns at Ripa 12 | Trastevere Delicious Seafood

Checco er Carettiere

One of the Oldest Trattoria in Trastevere Serving Very Good Roman Traditional Dishes
Best Bet: Bombolotti alla Amatriciana
Price 60€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating 76/100

Jaipur | 56 Via di San Francesco a Ripa | 06 5803992

Very Good Indian Restaurant located in a peaceful Lane Just off Viale Trastevere

Best Bets: Tandoori Dishes
Price 30€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating N/A

Osteria La Gensola

Located in the Charming Piazza in Piscinula La Gensola Offers Excellent Food

Best Bets: Roman Traditional Dishes | Shellfish
Price 50€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating 75/100

Minnetti in Trastevere

One of my fave Restaurants in Trastevere. Chef Roberto Minnetti and his great team serve real Tuscan food in the heart of Rome! Enjoy the short but really good wine list, I like the Poggio Antico Montalcino, the outstanding Extra Virgin Olive Oil, the wide choice of sea salt! Just Brilliant!

Best Bets: Veal Tripe | 100 Egg Pasta | Peposa Stew

Price 40€ | Excellent Value for Money | Guida L’Espresso 2010 Rating 13/20

My Fave Montalcino Wine at Minnetti | Tuscan Restaurant in Trastevere

Fabrizio dal 1956 | 15 Via di Santa Dorotea | Tel 06 5806244 | Wednesdays Closed

This is my fave trattoria in Trastevere! Great traditional Roman food served by Fabrizio with a smile. Booking recommended as this place gets very busy every evening with locals and politicians. No English menu here yet but Fabrizio in working on that.

Best Bets: Check for the daily specials on the chalk board

Price 40€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Rating Good Value for Money

My Fave Roman Restaurant in Trastevere | Nancy Aiello Tours

Restaurant Ripa 12

Not fancy just real good and fresh seafood from Calabria with a good wine list and good service

Best Bet: Sea Bass & Tuna Carpaccio

Price 55€ | Guida L’Espresso 2010 Rating 12.5/20

Roma Sparita

A Very Good Traditional Trattoria Located in the Heart of Medieval Rome

Best Bets: Typical Roman Dishes | Calzone

Price 25€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 N/A

Trattoria Degli Amici

A Special Restaurant for Special People in the Heart of the Trastevere Nightlife. I love this place run by Sant’ Egidio Community that helps disadvantaged and less fortunate people while serving really good food. Check with the sommelier, he does not drink wine but can tell from your face if the bottle is good!

Best Bets: Cod Maccheroni | Cous Cous

Price 35€ | Gambero Rosso 2010 Excellent Value for Money

Who Needs a Dryer in Trastevere | Narrow and Colorfoul Trastevere Alleys

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips or pictures with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it! Buon Viaggio!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Join Us on Twitter!

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article on your website please contact us for consent and further info.

A Tour of Trastevere | Rome at a Glance from the Janiculum Hill

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Discreet Charm of Shopping in Rome | An interview with RomeShoppinGuide.com

ItalyTravelista — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:35:58 +0000

Lunch with Stefania Troiani | Owner and Founder at Romeshoppinguide.com

It’s a glorious, golden autumn day in Rome, and after admiring the Renaissance gateway of Piazza del Popolo and tempting shops on a stroll along central Rome’ cobblestoned alleys I reach San Lorenzo in Lucina to have lunch at Ciampini with Stefania Troiani.

Ms Stefania Troiani is the Owner and Founder of Rome Shopping Guide.com a custom Rome tour planning company specialized in providing tailor made luxury private shopping Rome tours.

The view from our table is outstanding overlooking Rome and we’re eager to learn more about shopping in Rome with Rome Shopping Guide.com

Ciao Stefania, please tell us about yourself. Are you originally from Rome?

Buongiorno Nancy, my family is from Rome and we have been living in the Eternal City of Rome for as long as any member of the family can remember and I am very proud of that.

Rome is the largest open air museum in the world and as a local I love sharing it with visitors and friends who come from all over the world to enjoy Rome designers’ shops and boutique surrounded by Rome’s architectural masterpieces. My philosophy is to provide my guests with the finest vacation in Rome together with a personal and friendly service, and I am extremely keen on sharing the love I feel for Rome, my city and my fondness for shopping in this amazing city with you.

What makes Rome such a popular shopping destination?

Shopping in Rome is a marriage in paradise. In Rome you find the most famous and desirable designer shops all nestled in a colorful and unforgettable urban landscape made of small alleys, old patrician palaces and unique squares designed by the genius artists Italy is famous for.

In some cities you shop between districts, in Rome you shop between centuries.

Beside, Rome is not only for the glitterati who like to splash out on the latest must-have bag. On the contrary the Eternal City of Rome has plenty to offer for all tastes and wallets, from chic boutiques to small ateliers and artisan shops that you can only find by taking your time walking the ancient walks of Rome.

Actually the best of the Made in Italy with its sartorial touch can be found here and if you know who to ask you can even find the Pope’s tailor located just off the Pantheon!

How did you start your business as personal shopper in Rome?

About six years ago during one of my frequent business trips to London I decided to maximize my shopping time by hiring a personal shopper. The results were excellent because of the great value of the assistance I got and because I realized that I took a service that I used to provide to my friends when they came to visit me in Rome. I suddenly realized that this creative job could have been a great challenge for me since back in 2003 very few were aware of this service in Italy.

I exchanged these thoughts with my friends about sharing my expertise for styling and fashion together with my passion of Rome with guests and they encouraged me to “launch myself” setting up a “friendly Rome shopping guide” website and that’s how romeshoppinguide.com was born! Since then words of mouth has been my best advertising!

I am extremely happy with the decision I took because it gives me the opportunity to get in touch with people from different places and cultures. These encounters often turns into friendship and give us the possibility to exchange views on the latest fashion trends from NYC or Mumbai to Shanghai and Paris, and it’s really fascinating.

What are your most popular tours or types of shopping requests?

My clientele, both male and female, when they come to Rome for sightseeing or business, are interested in having access to the “unknown Rome”.

Actually what I enjoy the most is to take shoppers beyond the street level retail shops sharing “my Rome shopping secrets” with guests curious to experience Rome in a no tourist way.

Just to give you an example, since Italy is also famous for leather I have being asked several times by my clients to take them to leather goods shops. I do accompany them to visit skill craftsmen of which there are few left downtown Rome. These are my favorite gems. In these leather shops with annexed laboratory guests can purchase and customize their bags, suitcases, jackets, coats, shoes with the preferred kind of leather, seize, color and accessories.

This kind of shopping trip together with those that target private showrooms and local artisan laboratories are always a successful experience. I am telling you this Nancy just to say that Italy is still a country with a strong and alive artisan heritage and if you would like to have a unique made in Italy quality piece, this is the place to come to for it!

Then going back to your question, and actually a question I have also been asked often from my clients: there are not popular shopping Rome tours but similar shopping requests as for clothing and shoes of course but also from well traveled visitors looking for limited edition watches and customized jewelry, or vintage Tuscan wines and gourmet food, pottery and Italian blow glass and made in Italy home furniture, and even vintage fountain pens Italy is famous for!

But let me tell you that sometimes I also get unusual requests such as the one from two ladies who asked me to take them just to the best quality open air food market in town because they wanted to make a dinner surprise for their husbands! We had an amazing time together, they were eager to learn about Italian recipes and so during our shopping food tour I was pleased to share my family secrets with them on how to cook with those fresh ingredients. After few days I was very happy to receive a thank you letter from the ladies. This is just one of the several wonderful shopping memories I got.

Can you tell me a sample itinerary of two contrasting tours, for example, Piazza Navona and Via Veneto?

My aim and skills resides in customizing itineraries according to the client’s goals making sure that each Rome shopping tour is memorable and one of a kind.

The Piazza Navona and the Via Veneto guided shopping tours as proposed in romeshoppinguide.com are based on my experience and entice most of the guests that visit Rome for the first time. But please keep in mind that these itineraries can be tailor made, revised and eventually turn up side down even at the very last second according to my guests. When I receive a Rome shopping tour enquiry I ask for as many details as possible so that I can design a made to measure Rome shopping itinerary based on each shopper needs and maximize his/her precious time in Rome while making sure his/her shopping spree is fun and relaxing.

Back to your question, Piazza Navona and Via Veneto /Dolce Vita guided shopping Rome tours vary because of the different kind of shops you can find and the feeling you get by strolling around these shopping areas.

Shopping through the historical Piazza Navona area means going for antique shops, artisans and Italian glass shops, minimalist boutiques, wine bars and gourmet shops, breathing the ancient Roman atmosphere on every corner. In this shopping area surrounded by remarkable fountains, noble palaces and ancient ruins guests get the perfect combination of a shopping and sightseeing Rome tour since beside leading guests to the shops I love to highlight to them the surrounding treasures and masterpieces so to blend Italy art with shopping.

The Via Veneto area, well known as the Dolce Vita Street, has many exclusive leather goods, jewelers, gloves and fashion shops that I usually suggest to a sophisticated and more mature clientele, and my American guests enjoy a lot the sight of the nearby U.S. Embassy.

You also offer tours to Tuscany & Umbria as well as factory outlets and food/wine stores. What do these tours encompass?

I love offering my guests different choices of shopping and wine tours as well as promoting my country letting travelers know that Italy is not only Rome, Venice, Florence or Capri and beside the astonishing Tuscan countryside well known around the world, there is also the beautiful Umbria countryside region.

The Umbria area is extremely picturesque with a wide range of choices from visiting ancient Castles surrounded by vineyards, where to stop for a personalized wine tasting, to pottery and cashmere outlets (the best Italian ceramics and cashmere brand name factories come from this region), from stopping at the chocolate factory (the famous Bacio perugina comes from Perugia!) to visiting the gourmet shops specialized in black truffle. I mean the list of treasures to discover and things to do is endless and it is definitely worth a visit!

The Italian designer’s outlet tours are bargain hunting tours and finding quality designer goods at 30% to 70% discount on the retail price is wonderful and well worth the day trip from Rome!

Often those outlet tours could be combined with magnificent wine and genuine Italian food tastings, according to the region we visit.

Can you share some of the current fashion trends in Italy, from clothing to shoes to eyewear?

I love clothes and accessories that have style and are not related to any specific trend. In my opinion fashion trends for 2010 would be a lot more towards affordable fashions than big labels. Today’s fashion designers need to be extremely creative in order to have a competitive edge in today’s growing fashion industry.

Having said that I am saving for a beautiful suitcase that I have recently seen at the last Milan Fashion Show. I won’t tell you the brand! After all I am Italian and I am a fashion victim by default!!!

We had a great conversation and a good lunch but now and I feel the urge for a shopping walk where I will need Stefania’ skills and tips to buy a lot of Made in Italy without breaking the bank!

Next time you’re planning to visit Rome do not miss the opportunity to contact Stefania at info@romeshoppinguide.com to shop in Rome as the Romans do!

Would you like to share your Italy travel tips or pictures with us? Please write us your comment and we will be happy to post it! Buon Viaggio!

Ciao from Rome:-)

Nancy Aiello

ItalyTravelista.com

Join us on Twitter

Since 1997 Nancy Aiello Tours, based in Rome, specializes in Tailor-Made Private Guided Vatican, Rome & Italy Tours for Leisure & Business Travelers.

New articles are published on our site weekly, sometimes daily. To keep up to date with our news, tips and current events, please sign up for ItalyTravelista free RSS feed.

If you are interested in publishing a version of this article on your website please contact us for consent and further info.

When in Rome shop as the Romans do | Enjoy shopping in Rome

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