When approaching Trevi Fountain you see the exquisite Baroque design throughout the sculpted marble, but can’t help thinking when getting back to the hotel you may want to upload the films Roman Holiday, La Dolce Vita or Three Coins in the Fountain for evening diversions.

While strolling in the historic Borghese gardens I recalled my history of Paolina Bonaparte Borghese, who reminded me so much of Alexis Colby from Dynasty. After the death of her first husband, she went about acquiring the Hôtel de Charost in Paris away from a duchess; married Camillo Borghese, the 6th Prince of Sulmona before the set mourning date her brother Napoleon felt was suitable in regards to first husband, and she continued with extra marital affairs. Does this 19th century diva have “reality tv” written all over her lifestyle? And, to see the neo-classical Canova sculpture of Venus Victrix [white marble] on the ground floor of the villa was absolutely spectacular. Can you imagine posing {nude} for Antonio Canova one of the greatest neoclassical artist of the time….sculpting you in marble?
Fun Facts about the Flavian Amphitheatre {Colosseum}
1. Latin name is Amphitheatrum Flavium.
2. Nero’s villa {Domus Aurea} included an enormous lake, upon which emperor Vespasian attempted to remove all facets of his predecessor by building an arena for the people.
3. The shape is elliptical with a base area of six acres, and is still the largest amphitheater in the world.
4. One of the most visited sites in Italy.
So much can be accessed by staying on the Via Veneto; the American Embassy, Harry’s Bar, Villa Borghese, quaint shops and la panetteria‘s {bakeries} after a day of gallery hopping!!! A cappuccino and a treat is always the best way to recharge in the afternoon.
Love your “capsulized” commentary on Rome. We were just there in the fall, again. No matter how many times you go, the romance of the City and the stories behind the sites, never grow stale — just like those movies of the 50s and 60s.
Enjoy your spirited travelogues.
Stephanie
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Agreed, I too have traveled to Rome on several occasions, and never tire of collecting experiences. Also, thank you so very much for your most kind word!!!
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Thanks for the beautiful photos of Rome. It is amazing that the Colosseum is still the largest amphitheatre in the world. Just shows the magnificence of the Romans.
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Our guide is an archeologist from the Colosseum, and stated the Romans were the ultimate craftsmen and builders of the ancient world. When asked about the contributions from the Greeks, Persians, China, and Africa I received a most frigid glare, but it was definitely worth questioning!!!
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Ha ha! I guess he was a little biased, yes the Romans were the master builders. I mean we still use some of their roads and Bridges, the aquaducts are still there, and as you mentioned the Colosseum is still the biggest. So, maybe he a has right even though not too humble. 😂. Thanks again.
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