Second day in Rome and while tempted to schedule a day tour to Pompeii or an afternoon tour to the Vatican, I decided against both. There were a few spots within walking distance to my hotel that I wanted to see.
Before I left Rockland, I did some research, thanks to suggestions by friends and the Internet. The HBO series Rome, various historical documentaries, Sparticus, and old Italian movies like "La Dolce Vita".
Via Veneto was the first stop. In my mind I had visions in black and white thanks to Frederico Fellini, which were much more glamourous than the street as it is today. Fast walking business people, lots of traffic, and a fountain surrounded by big metal fences with red and white "danger" signs. After a few pictures (two were of the street sign) I moved on.
Next, the Trevi Fountain. Luckily the clouds opened up a bit as I was able stand in awe next to the glowing sunlit statues and flowing water of the fountain. All of this while eating some amazing gelato. Chocolate with little bits of orange zest, to be exact.
The Pantheon is a must see for anyone visiting Rome, plus it's free. Unfortunately, half of it was covered by scaffolding, which is to be expected by any ancient structure. Inside are many religious statues and artifacts, while impressive, a bit underwhelming compared to the architectural marvel of the building itself.
Piazza Navona was suggested by the receptionist at my hotel. A large square with three fountains, two smaller at each end and a large impressive one in the middle. Each fountain was again surrounded by the same metal gates with danger signs. I don't remember these from the old movies. I understand the need for safety, but talk about killing the mood.
As I stepped into the middle of the piazza, the clouds closed in and sent all of the merchants into chaos. Covering their wares with tarps and umbrellas, then quickly running for cover underneath the protected streetside cafes. I quickly searched for a shelter, the busiest cafe in the area is always a good option. After ordering a frosty mug of beer, I pulled out a good book to pass the time.
About ten minutes went by, and all of the sudden I heard what sounded like gunshots in the distance, followed by the repetitive chanting of many people. Sirens, more shooting and yelling. After a couple police paddywagons and BMWs slowly patrolled the area, I pulled my server aside and asked what is sam hell was going on. "Manifesto de publica" he replied, which I think was the nice way to say Riot in Italian. And my beer wasn't even half finished.
With angry citizens waving flags and the sound of gunshots to my back, I quickly made my way towards Via del Corso for some windowshopping. Various designer shops line the street, all ridiculously overpriced. 200 Euro for a D-G Tshirt. No thanks.
After enough action for the day, I began to search for the perfect dark cafe with an Internet connection. As the rain turned into painful dime sized hail, I found myself back near the Spanish Steps in front of a cafe with a gorgeous waitress smiling at me from the doorway. Yep, this will do...for now.
