So here it is, the final day (yes finally!) … A day to take in what we had already seen, and recap on a few places that we hadn’t spent that much time in (and make mental notes of what to see next time), including a visit to the glorious Piazza del Popolo – this time to pay homage to the Caravaggio’s inside the Basilica of Santa Maria. How artists like Caravaggio managed to achieve such realism and vivid colours at that point in time is beyond me, you can spot his works straight away here as they really do stand out…
And whilst I stood appreciating the talents of this incredible artist (and waited for the crowds to disperse to enjoy one particular painting in entirety without 55 people standing in front of it) – The Seven Year old, who had been entranced by a massive bubble gum machine in the foyer of our hotel for the entirety of our stay, had quietly been enjoying the reward he had so patiently waited for – and picked that very moment to let me know that he had kept this (now chewed up) bubblegum for later. In his pocket. Along with around 25 tiny bits of Lego and lots and lots of fluff – all of which (including his hand) was now gummed together. I had thought that this reward had been safely discarded before we had entered such sacred surroundings, but this memory will forever mark how I remember this beautiful little basilica, and it’s impressive collection!! Look out for the stunning domed ceiling by Raphael here, along with the intricate dragon, and the many stone skulls dotted about the place…
Sticky situation dealt with, we strolled through grand streets, passing iconic building after iconic building, and the not so iconic alike (but equally impressive!). We admired the stereotypical vehicles that pump the arteries of this amazing city (including those piled so high with goods, they deserved a medal for not toppling over), and thanked the blue skies and sunshine that coloured everything in for us as we walked. We passed slumbering guard bears, and spent time leafing through market stalls with towers of antique books (many of which wanted to come home with us!), before deciding on one very last lunch at our most favourite place of all…
I cannot recommend Maccheroni enough (thank you Nicole for that tip as well!) From the staff who adored the Small People (and treated them to amazing “skullabone tattoos” – I wonder if they had witnessed the tap-dancing skeleton a few days earlier?) to the specialities such as the Cacio et Pepe (a regional dish of macaroni with cheese and pepper) that this restaurant is so famed for, and quite rightly so… On this particular day however, I felt the need for comfort food, something that would envelop me in a big Roman “hug” before we said goodbye to this amazing city – and the Cannelloni was up to that task, as was the huge zabaglione we all shared afterwards…
Ciao Rome, until next time. And there will be a next time believe me, I just hope it won’t be too long…
Maccheroni: – Piazze delle Coppolla 44, 00186 Roma, Italy – Phone: +39 06 6830 7895 Most definitely 10/10
Notmyyearoff says
So beautiful. It looks like a really brilliant trip.
bavaria says
Thank you Tas, if you ever get the chance, do visit – it’s truly gorgeous! :)
Nicole says
Emma thank you so much for your appreciation!
Say hello to the small people…
Nicole
bavaria says
I will thank you Nicole, I have been making sure that people hear about RomeisEasy here in Munich too! They must not come to Rome without getting in touch with you first, it just wouldn’t be the same experience! :)
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
I saw the title of the post off in your sidebar and just had to click as I am in the midst of planning our own Italy with Kids trip. I’ll be going through the rest of your Rome Posts as well since you so cleverly titled this Part 4. Maccheroni looks delightful, and I’ve pinned this Pinterest so that I’ll remember to be on the lookout for this restaurant.
bavaria says
Thanks Michele! Yes, you must visit Maccheroni! You really must get in touch with Nicole from Rome is Easy too, I promise you won’t be disappointed! Emma :)
Patricia says
I’ve just been in Rome, but my pictures are not as nearly beautiful as your.
I hope I don’t sound too invasive, but I was wondering what kind of camera you were using since I am camera hunting right now.
Thank you and have a wonderful day!
bavaria says
Thanks so much Patricia! I have a couple of cameras, most of these were actually taken with my smaller G11 Canon which I take pretty much everywhere with me. My other camera is a larger Canon 60D which I love! :)
Leslea P says
My favourite city :-) ahhhhhh thank you for the great photos. I can smell the food lol
bavaria says
Thanks Leslea! xx
Victoria says
I want to go even more now!! Very funny story about the gum!! At least he didn’t stick it behind his ear!!xx
bavaria says
It obviously runs in the family!! xx
Helloitsgemma says
Of course, I love the photography, I love your descriptions of Rome but mostly, I love the sticky situation!
bavaria says
We can’t just go and visit somewhere… Honestly! :D Thank you! xx
A Patchwork Life says
Take me there now! Fabulous Emma, all 4 parts, and top tips too. Great bubblegum story, bless him! At least he didn’t swallow it I suppose…Love the pic of the van with the garden in the back! xx
bavaria says
Thanks so much T! :) xx
Alexander Residence says
Love the bit about the bubblegum, reminds me so much of my 7yo! I must write my Rome up, you have really inspired me. Superb pictures!
bavaria says
You must! I am still laughing about Father Christmas! Thanks Penny xx
Michelle Twin Mum says
Some amazing photos there Emma but the one that really capatured me is the shot looking up in the narrow street, fab. Mich x
bavaria says
Thank you Michelle! :) x
maggy, red ted art says
Gorgeous!!! You go on so many COOL TRIPS!
bavaria says
Thanks Maggy! xx
Liz Burton says
I’ve so enjoyed coming on this trip to Rome with you – even though it has just been virtually!
bavaria says
Thank you Liz! :) x
Emma says
wow stunning photos. I smiled at the book stall, imagine trying to find a specific book in that pile!
bavaria says
I know… I think my daughter would have loved trying that though! :D Thanks Emma x
Jane says
Looks amazing, your pictures are always stunning really makes me feel like I am part of the post
bavaria says
Thanks so much Jane xx
Trish says
I think a return visit for me is needed – you’ve whetted my appetite!
bavaria says
Good I am so glad! Thanks Trish xx
Boo Roo and Tigger Too says
So much to see and do, and that food.. yum yum
bavaria says
I definitely don’t recommend Rome if you are on a diet! :D Thank you xx
Alice says
I have such itchy feet after reading this series of posts. Rome looks incredible! x
bavaria says
Thanks so much Alice! :)
Donna @ Little Lilypad Co says
I want to go here on our honeymoon.
I want to go now!! *stamps feet*
bavaria says
Book it as a surprise?!? I could recommend some hotels to you! :)
Christine says
Gorgeous photos, would love to visit again. Food heaven too (apart from the bubblegum)!
bavaria says
Yes, that was definitely a food hell! :D Thanks Christine… :)
older mum in a muddle says
Is that a lasagne? My mouth is watering like crazy! I have really, really enjoyed your Rome series. Incredible art. Incredible architecture. Incredible food. X
bavaria says
Thank you S. I am only sorry it’s taken me so long to write it up! More places coming soon! XX PS. it’s a cannelloni!
Rachel - 3yearsandhome says
I’m desperate for a return visit. Beautiful pictures and wonderful posts. I’ve loved your Roman holiday.
bavaria says
Thank you Rachel! :) x
Bianca @itsallbee says
Beautiful pictures! I love all them. I like that they capture the everyday side of the city than just touristy buildings.
http://www.itsallbee.com
bavaria says
Thank you Bianca, that’s really kind of you! :)