Rome is a juxtaposition of old and new. It is modern, the energy and sophistication reminding me of New York City while its low skyline revering history reminds me of Washington D.C. Yet here the history is ancient. The Colosseum, built in 70 AD, rises up at the end of Via dei Fori Imperiali, a road constructed by the order of Mussolini in 1923. While the road is highly controversial due to the demolition of ancient and medieval structures and the continued damage to the ancient monuments, it has created one of the most awe inspiring views in the world.

Rome is an assault on all the senses, your body challenged to take it all in while your mind scrambles to write it all down.

The sight of the majestic umbrella pines harken back to another time. I romanticize that these trees provided shade for Caesar, inspiration for Michelangelo.

The sound of the bustle is a constant, low hum. Nothing too offensive but constant.

I have tasted cacio e pepe in restaurants in New York City but in Rome this classic dish is both simplified and elevated. The salty smell of briny olives, cured salami and breadsticks are perfectly paired with a glass of Frascati, Prosecco, Chianti, gin, water, anything. The cobblestone at my feet, the Pantheon at my hands, I felt the ancient stone.

Rome, once the capital of the world, wears its history like a Prada bomber, elegant yet everyday. 

Wanderlust