Welcome back everyone! Now, since I haven’t completed my selection/processing of my photos of Anguillara, I thought I’d post some pictures of Rome which I have also been working on in parallel. In fact, following my stay in Anguillara, I decided that I’d stay two extra days in Italy to visit Rome and believe me, those two days were really worth it. I might add that my Italian colleagues pointed out that it was clearly not sufficient for a magnificent city such as Rome, but traveling alone when you have a family waiting for you back home is a fairly good incentive to head back in a reasonable amount of time!
I stayed at the Best Western Art Deco Hotel close to Termini station, reserved for me by my colleagues at ENEA, and I have to say that it was perfect; a nice hotel at a reasonable price but most importantly, situated close to all the most important attractions. I have to also add that the breakfast, which was included, was better than I expected and allowed me to start my day on the right foot!
The following pictures were taken in the evening of my first night. I hope you enjoy them since there are many more to come!
Camera configuration: My trusted Nikon D800 equipped with a 50 mm f/1.8 Nikon lens.
First stop, Piazza Repubblica; this is where I had my first encounter with Roman traffic! Well, just like they say, when in Rome do as the Romans do… therefore, in the absence of any traffic lights, simply start crossing the street and hope that all the cars will stop to let you pass. I came back in one piece so I can assure you that this technique works!
The Wolf of Piazza Repubblica
The crossing
Once in the center of the piazza, I decided I’d practice my panning technique; essentially following your subject of interest while it’s moving thus resulting in a blurred background. One thing you’ll also notice when in Rome is the abundance of motor bikes and scooters; they’re simply everywhere. Actually, you’ll not only see them, you’ll also hear them! Here’s a picture of one where the driver is giving me a look instead of looking in front.
The look
Another thing you’ll notice in Rome is these fairly large food trucks which sell water, juice, beer, fruits and more. Really practical when you’re walking around for hours!
Gastronomia
Old man selling books and postcards…
Book seller
Sit and take a break…
Break time
These bubble heads really made me laugh…
Shopping is another popular activity in Rome…
Class
One church among so many…
Vespas are obviously very popular in Rome; I liked this pistachio-colored one…
Vespa 50
The contrast between the storefront and this beggar is a complete coincidence but one that clearly shows life’s inequalities…
Golden hour…
Setting sun
Just so many beautiful buildings to photograph…
Façade
The site of the Basilica Ulpia…
Well there you go, my 15 pictures of the day. Many more of Italy to come and eventually of our family vacation to France and Germany; Stay tuned!