All posts by : Adm_Vivicos

Rome is a continuous discovery: everything in the historic center, from the symbols of the eternal city such as the Colosseum or the Pantheon or the Trevi Fountain, to the most evocative views like the Gianicolo, the Orange Garden, and the Capitol, is tangible evidence of the multitude of events that have layered over the centuries, creating today that unique world humus on which Rome continues to thrive.

Trajan’s Column: A Testament to Rome’s Imperial Glory

If you find yourself near the Imperial Forums and the Colosseum and are passionate about the history of ancient Rome and the magnificence of its vast Empire, Trajan’s Column is undoubtedly one of the monuments that cannot be missed in your walking tour.

This monument is located next to the Ulpia Basilica.

Unraveling the Story: Bas-Reliefs and Propaganda on Trajan’s Column

The monument was erected between 107 and 113 AD; it was commissioned by Emperor Trajan to celebrate and commemorate the conquest of Dacia, present-day Romania.

But what is the peculiarity of this 40-meter-high monument? Its absolute uniqueness lies in the friezes that spiral along the entire length of the column, narrating, like a story, the heroic deeds of the Roman people and Trajan during the victorious military campaigns to conquer Dacia. Each frieze, created using bas-relief technique, depicts a significant moment in the battle: in fact, this narrative represents one of the first propaganda tools ever devised.

An important testimony

Every scene depicted on the column represents a specific moment in the military campaign, from preparations to the actual battle, to the triumph.

What stands out are the details of the bas-reliefs, which intricately portray moments of the troops’ daily life during the long weeks away from Rome. These details have provided scholars with important insights into the daily habits of the Roman people, from clothing to food, from the types of weapons used to the military tactics of the time.

Exploring Trajan’s Column from Base to Summit

Even from an architectural point of view, the Column is an exemplary monument from various perspectives. Built from 18 stacked blocks, the material used is the precious Carrara marble. On the side of the column facing the Ulpia Basilica, an inscription with Roman characters and four eagles supporting a laurel wreath can be noticed.

The entrance to access it is at the base of the Column: inside are the remains of Trajan and his wife Plotina. From here, an internal spiral staircase with its 185 steps leads to the top of the column. Originally, at the top of the column, there was the statue of Trajan, replaced in 1587 during the pontificate of Pope Sixtus V with a bronze statue of St. Peter.

The panorama that unfolds for visitors at the top of the monument is unique, with a breathtaking view of the Imperial Forums and the monuments in the heart of the city.

Suggestions

After visiting this jewel of imperial Rome, just a few steps from the Colosseum, you can’t miss the opportunity to take a tour of Basilica San Clemente one of the oldest churches in the eternal city.

The eternal city, in addition to its numerous monuments, squares, churches, and shopping streets, boasts invaluable private art collections housed in marvelous period residences that stand in the heart of Rome.

Unveiling the Doria Pamphilj Gallery: Rome’s Hidden Gem

One of these, the Doria Pamphilj Gallery, is located in the prestigious Palazzo of the same name on the central Via del Corso. The venue is the result of evolutions and expansions that occurred over five centuries. The palace originally belonged to the Della Rovere family, then passed to the Aldobrandini, before being transferred to the Pamphilj in 1647, following the marriage of Olimpia Aldobrandini to Camillo Pamphilj. Four years later, in 1651, Giambattista Pamphilj ascended to the papal throne as Innocent X and decided to establish the Gallery within the Palace. In 1760, the direct descendants of the Pamphilj were succeeded by the Doria Pamphilj branch.

The Museum

Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is an incredible snapshot of what Italian noble families represented in past eras. The Pamphilj, Doria, Colonna, Aldobrandini, Della Rovere, and Savoia families are narrated through the museum, depicting their unions and the power they exerted over Rome and the Italian peninsula. The Gallery still maintains a specific layout in its Four Arms, which make up the exhibition, following the indications contained in a document from 1767. Each work is precisely located according to a criterion of symmetry and stylistic affinity with the other works.

Exploring the Doria Pamphilj Gallery’s Magnificent Collections

Within its walls, paintings by Raphael, Titian, Parmigianino, Caravaggio, Guercino, Guido Reni, and Velazquez are safeguarded, among others. Not just paintings: the Doria Pamphilj Gallery also exhibits ancient sculptures and tapestries. The Gallery unfolds through the Four Arms, all overlooking the internal Bramantesque courtyard. The Aldobrandini Room and the Primitives Room concentrate most of the masterpieces from the Doria Pamphilj family’s private collection.

Immersing in the Opulent Halls

The visit to the Gallery begins with the grand representative Halls, richly furnished and decorated. Subsequently, you enter the Hall of Jupiter and the Pussino Hall, where magnificent paintings, especially landscapes, are displayed. The Velvet Room, named for the presence of precious cut-out velvets on the walls, and the Dance Hall follow. The Cadmo Room introduces you to the actual Gallery.

The Four Arms

The First Arm contains one of the Gallery’s masterpieces, Diego Rodriguez de Silva y Velázquez’s “Portrait of Innocent X” from 1650. The work is characterized by the absolute realism with which the painter portrayed the pontiff, who indeed deemed it “too true.”

The Second Arm consists of the splendid Mirror Gallery, sent from Venice in the early 18th century, and the Four Small Rooms on the Corso, which were originally the Palace’s apartments. In the second Small Room, you can admire, side by side, two paintings: the “Penitent Magdalene” and the “Rest during the Flight to Egypt,” both created by a young Caravaggio.

The Third Arm of the Gallery contains works by Correggio, Lorrain, Guercino, and Guido Reni. The Aldobrandini Hall houses a large bichrome marble sculpture from the Antonine era depicting a Centaur at its center. Among the paintings, standout “Salome with the Head of John the Baptist,” one of Titian’s early masterpieces, Raphael’s “Double Portrait,” and Guercino’s “Sleeping Endymion.” The Green Hall contains a significant collection of panel paintings.

The Fourth Arm of the Gallery houses two panels by Parmigianino, while in the center is placed the bust of Andrea Doria from 1844.

Conclusion

The Doria Pamphilj Gallery, with its priceless treasures, is much more than a simple collection of artworks; it is an open window into the life and culture of one of Rome’s most important noble families. Through the works of great masters, visitors can perceive the artistic legacy and refined taste that has characterized this extraordinary family over the centuries. A visit to the Doria Pamphilj Gallery represents the ideal conclusion to a day steeped in the history and art of the capital throughout multiple eras, after experiencing all the emotions of a tour exploring the Colosseum and Ancient Rome.

Rome is a metropolis to be experienced at any time of the year; one of the moments when the calendar of events in the eternal city is filled with appointments is the month of February. The Roman Carnival, in fact, especially in recent years, has brought a breath of enthusiasm and joy to the capital of Italy, consequently attracting an increasing number of tourists.

Even in this 2024 the eternal city is set to experience an exciting month of February with a calendar full of events centered around Carnival, a traditional festival beloved worldwide and handed down in Italy from generation to generation through cherished traditions.

The Tiber Carnival: A Must-Attend Event in Rome

One of the must-attend events during the most colorful and festive month of the year is the Tiber Carnival, now in its 3rd edition, scheduled for Sunday, February 11th. Participants in the parade, both adults and children, are encouraged to join wearing their own Carnival masks.

How to Participate in the Tiber Carnival

The event is free, and there are various ways to participate. Water enthusiasts can navigate the planned route by canoe or stand-up paddleboard, while those less experienced can follow the path on foot or by bicycle along the Tiber’s banks. The event is organized by the Association of the International Descent of the Tiber, and the central theme of the parade revolves around raising awareness for the water quality of the Tiber River and the overall river environment, especially within the city. This aligns with the growing public focus on ecological issues and recycling initiatives.

Parade Program

Colors, music, and, above all, numerous masks will celebrate the Roman Carnival to the fullest. At the end of the event, prizes will be awarded to the best masks that best embody the river and material reuse theme.

The parade is set to begin at 10:00 am at Scalo de Pinedo (Metro Flaminio), with the mask parade, both on water and along the riverbanks, commencing at 11:00 am.

The water parade, for safety reasons, will be accompanied and coordinated by qualified guides for river descents. The route covers 6 km, with a maximum of 40 boats allowed, requiring prior registration. The bike or walking route along the riverbanks is more suitable for families, accompanied by dedicated entertainment for both young and old.

The first landing is scheduled at approximately 12:30 pm at Castel Sant’Angelo, about an hour after departure, with a return against the current. The second landing will take place at Ponte Sisto at 2:00 pm, returning to Scalo de Pinedo.

Are you staying in Rome during the Carnival season and looking for fun-filled performances? After a tour of Colosseum or the astonishing Vatican Museums, surely, the Tiber Carnival is an event not to be missed, especially for families and sports enthusiasts.

Save the date for February 11th on the banks of the Tiber for the 3rd edition of the Tiber Carnival.

The Eternal City of Rome is filled with infinite beauty, starting with its amazing historical buildings and symbols like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Castel Sant’Angelo and many more and continuing with incredible monuments like the Trevi Fountain, the Obelisk in Piazza del Popolo and more, this city is never short of things to see! Every neighborhood and corner you turn, you might come across a hidden gem and a great example of this is Galleria Sciarra, a beautiful gallery located just a few steps away from the Trevi Fountain. This gallery creates a stunning and relaxing environment, especially if you’re coming from the infamous Trevi Fountain, which is usually quite crowded, and it’s filled with frescoes and colorful art.

Let’s find out something more about the beautiful Galleria Sciarra and why you shouldn’t miss out on visiting it when you’re in Rome!

A Historical Marvel in the Heart of Rome

The Galleria Sciarra courtyard was created in the XIX century as a shopping mall under the commission of the Sciarra family. It never really turned into a shopping mall but, if it did, it definitely would have been one of the best ones in the peninsula.

Going more in-depth about the edification of this gallery, Galleria Sciarra was built between 1885 and 1888 in between buildings by architect Giulio De Angelis who had been commissioned this work by the Prince Maffeo Barberini-Colonna di Sciarra who had the desire to connect all of his properties.

Unveiling the Art Nouveau Splendor of Galleria Sciarra’s Frescoes

As previously mentioned, Galleria Sciarra is covered in beautiful frescoes and colorful art. These frescoes are designed in the Art Nouveau Style and cover most of the gallery, creating an intricate collection of art. All of the frescoes in the gallery are from its original construction and were not modified during the restoration works that the gallery underwent in 1970. One of the most interesting aspects about Galleria Sciarra is its iron and glass vaulted roof, a choice that was made due to the popularity of these kinds of roofs back in the day. Thanks to the glass roof, the gallery is beautifully lit, creating a bright and open space.

How to Find Galleria Sciarra: A Hidden Gem Near Trevi Fountain

If you’re getting more curious as you read this blog and are interested in knowing how to get to Galleria Sciarra, fear not, we’re here to help!

Galleria Sciarra is always open to visitors as it is used as a simple walkway between office buildings. Getting there is quite easy although you must keep an eye out for it since it is quite hidden. From the Trevi Fountain, which you can see through our Best of Rome Private Tour, you must go into Via delle Muratte and, right at the corner of this street and Via Santa Maria, you should be able to see Galleria Sciarra!

Conclusion

Visiting Galleria Sciarra is an amazing way to get to know more details about the city of Rome and explore less-touristy destinations. If you want to get to know more about the Eternal City of Rome and Italy in general, we suggest you check out our other blogs and, if you feel like you want to get to know more secrets about the city of Rome.

Visiting Rome during the Winter Holidays is one of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of this magical city. As the city fills up with Christmas lights and decorations, getting incredibly colorful, many activities and chances to have an unforgettable experience arise! Traditionally, Christmas Holidays come to an end when Italians celebrate The Epiphany, known in Italy as “L’Epifania” on January 6th, as the popular saying “L’Epifania, tutte le feste porta via!” says.

Let’s find out something more about spending the Epiphany feast in Italy, more precisely in Rome, and some of the best things to do on this day!

Legend and Traditions

First and foremost, let’s talk a little more about the protagonist of the Epiphany feast: la Befana. This beloved Christmas character is typically depicted as a witch who goes around on a broomstick during the night between the 5th and 6th of January to bring sweet treats and gifts to the kids that were good throughout the year, similar to Santa Claus. The kids that were mostly naughty receive a bucket full of coal (this is usually done as a joke and the coal given is actually made of sugar!). All of the sweet treats are placed by la Befana in an Epiphany Stocking that kids leave hanging before going to bed.

The Meaning of Epiphany

Even though traditions associate this feast with the legend of the Befana, the Epiphany is actually a Christian holiday that commemorates the arrival of the Three Kings, Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, also known as Re Magi to baby Jesus’ crib. They apparently traveled a long distance to honor the birth of Jesus Christ and brought him many gifts.

Piazza Navona Magic: Rome’s Epiphany Market

If you’re looking for things to do on this special feast whilst in Rome, we strongly suggest you go to the Piazza Navona Christmas Market! The Epiphany feast actually marks the last day that this market is held and, because of this, the atmosphere gets truly special. It fills up the whole square and it’s the perfect way to spend the day for both couples and families. It’s also one of the best places to buy souvenirs for your loved ones back home!

Important Tips for Epiphany Visitors: Opening Hours and Attractions

If you’re coming to Rome on the 6th of January to visit the main tourist attractions like the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, or the Pantheon, there is some important info to keep in mind. The Vatican Museums are actually closed on January 6th, as well as many other Churches. We always recommend checking online for the opening times of these points of interest as they may vary. The Colosseum is instead open and you can visit it by booking a private tour with us here! If you want to get the full and best experience of the city of Rome, we strongly recommend you book a Best of Rome Private Tour with us.

Traditional Epiphany Foods to Try in Rome

Food is a core element of Italian culture and the Christmas Holidays are a very great example of this. If you’re in Rome on the Epiphany feast, make sure you take the time to try some of the most delicious traditional Christmas food such as Struffoli, Fugassa d’la Befana, Cavallucci di Siena, Cammelli di Pasta Sfoglia, Pepatelli and much more. Keep in mind that some of these traditional foods are tied to some regions and parts of Italy more than others so you may not find them everywhere!

Conclusion

Visiting the Eternal City of Rome during the Christmas Holidays is a fantastic way to get to know more about Italy’s Holidays and traditions and also immerse yourself in the beauty of the city of Rome covered in Christmas lights and decorations. If you want to get to know more about this magical city, make sure you check out our other blogs.