The Key to Italy Blog - Your Life in Italy

Rome Auditorium - Events, Music and Modern Architecture in Rome

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 18:00:00 +0100

One of the best example of modern architecture in Rome is, on my opinion, the Renzo Piano's "Auditorium Parco della Musica", a large multi-function public music complex.

Unfortunately, this wonderful construction is located out of the historic centre, in the north side of Rome, so tourists generally miss it.

Opened in 2002, Auditorium Parco della Musica combines architectural innovation with perfect acoustics. The complex is composed of three separate enormous bug-like halls whose forms are inspired by musical instruments. A fourth concert hall is the open air theater evoking Greco-Roman theaters.

The three large concert halls are structurally separated to assure soundproofing. Each one has a different dimension and purpose, but they are all characterized by an extreme versatility of the space: floor and ceiling can be moved to regulate the acoustic properties. Also the cherry-wood interiors guarantee an excellent sound.

The complex includes museums, a fantastic library, music studios, areas for exhibitions, cafes, restaurants, gardens and an archaeological site. Have a look to the events calendar: it hosts big international names in classical, rock, pop and world music.

Auditorium (http://www.auditorium.com ) is open daily from 10am to 6pm and the entrance is free! It is easy reachable by bus number 910 from Rome's train station (Stazione Termini). Ortherwise, if you're interested on any of the events, a shuttle bus M service departs from Stazione Termini every 15 minutes between 17:00 and the end of the last performance.

I encourage you to visit the Auditorium!! ....also for a good drink or meal at the charming "Red" cocktail lounge bar where you can absolutely spend a pleasant afternoon :)

[...]

Rome events and Rome holidays

bruno@thekeytoitaly.com — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:00:00 +0100

What's happening in Rome all year round!... Find out here

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in January - Rome
• Epiphany – “Befana” in Italian, is a religious holiday held on January 6th.There is also an Epiphany Fair held in the Piazza Navona with small rides for the children to ride and stands with games to play.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in February - Rome
• Ash Wednesday - Late February, many local romans celebrated this religious holiday. The Pope walks from the Basilica of Santa Sabina to the Circus Maximus, accompanied by members of the College of Cardinals.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in March - Rome
• Festival of St. Francesca - Early March, local romans drive their cars to the Piazzale del Colosseo, near the Church of Santa Francesca for blessing and prosperity.
• Feast of St. Joseph - People celebrate St. Joseph holiday by going to the Trionfale Square to eat a traditional roman type of doughnut-pastry called “Cimabela”!
• Maratona della Citta di Roma (Marathon) – Held every year in late March. This marathon is watched by crowds of people (locals and tourists) as the athletes run past by many of the city's spectacular landmarks and beautiful churches.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in April - Rome
• Festa della Primavera (Spring Festival) – It takes place early April highliting the beauty of all corners of Rome. The most commonly known area where this colorful special event takes place is the Spanish Steps. These amazing steps are decorated with azalea plants and concerts are held on top of the steps in Trinita dei Monti.
• Good Friday – During early April, in the evening the Pope leads a Procession of the Cross from the Colosseum garden to the Roman Forum. Take part or simply admire the parade of people following this amazing site.
• Easter – This year follows on April 12th, 2009. A memorable outdoor mass takes place in St. Peter's Square in the morning listening very carefully to the pope. There are more than 20,000 seats available for anyone who wants to attend. At the end, the Pope then blesses the crowd at noon. I do advise to go early for seating.
• Easter Monday – On April 13th, (long weekend) most locals go away to the country side and spend a relax three day weekend. In Rome however, in Castel Sant'Angelo gardens many celebrations are held to the public.
• Live Concerts – All throughout the month of April, the Accademia Filarmonica Romana performs regularly at the Teatro Olimpico to the public. If you are into music, this is a great place to go see.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in May - Rome
• Introducing new Vatican Guard – On May 6th 2009 an event will be held swearing in of the new guard at the Vatican on the anniversary for the Sacking of Rome.
• Tennis – In the middle of May, the tennis Masters Series Roma start at the Parco del Foro Italico
• Live Concerts – All throughout the month of April, the Accademia Filarmonica Romana performs regularly at the Teatro Olimpico to the public. If you are into music, this is a great place to go see.
• Chamber and symphony concerts - throughout May, the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia performs at the Via della Conciliazione, near Castle Sant’Angelo and Vatican St. Peter’s square.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in June - Rome
• Festa della Republica – On the first Sunday in June, this incredible military parade takes place on Via dei Fori Imperiali between the Colosseum and Piazza di Venezia. The street closes becoming an event where Italy celebrates their republic day.
• Saint Peter and Paul Day – During late June, solemn masses are held at St. Peter's Basilica (Vatican) and also all over Rome during this holiday.
• Pesaro Film Festival – In late June, also known as the International Exhibition of New Cinema – (hyperlink), works of recent/old films of new directors and also other recognitions from many countries around the world.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in July - Rome
• 4th of July –An American holiday also celebrated by Italians in Rome in the company of other Americans. It includes picnics, fireworks and many other fun activities.
• Spoleto Festival – Held in early July held in Spoleto. This festival presents top-quality concerts, opera, dance, theatre and film for all tastes.
• Operas and Ballets – During the whole month of July and early August, some of the best local Opera singers and ballets dancers perform regularly at Teatro dell'Opera, Piazza Beniamino Gigli. If you are in Rome, do not miss a show.
• Noianti Festival – From middle to late July there will be folk music, dancing, stands all of kinds selling goods and fireworks display in Trastevere. Fun activities for the whole family in honour of the Virgin Carmine.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in August - Rome
• Festa della Madonna della Neve – On August 5th, open-air film festival held at Santa Maria Maggiore church.
• Ferragosto (The Assumption) – A very traditional holiday held every August 15th, the mid-summer Roman holiday. Many locals take this holiday and go away to their country home outside the city of Rome or the beaches. On this day, you will not see many locals around as you will also notice many places are closed.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in September - Rome
• Crafts show – Takes place late September in Via dell'Orso. A must see!

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in October - Rome

• No activities

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in November - Rome
• All Saints' Day – Only once a year in early November, all churches will be open to the public for visitors.
• Unity Day – It represents World War I and Armed Forces Day. A unique ceremony takes place at the Tomb of the “Unknown Soldier” at Piazza Navona Held in November. Really nice site!
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in December - Rome - Rome
• Feast of the Immaculate Conception - Early December, the Pope places flowers at the column of the Virgin in Piazza di Spagnathis religious holiday.
• St. Stephen's Day - December 26th, many Romans visit nativity scenes, decorated churches with Christmas spirit throughout Rome on this public holiday… very popular day in Rome. An excellent day to visit and look inside all the beautiful churches in Rome.
• New Year's Eve - December 31st, masses are celebrated in churches all over Rome. There are also many parties and general celebrations in public places, restaurants and also in homes of family and friends.

[...]

Roma Pass: Rome Museums and Travel Bus Card

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Wed, 27 May 2009 18:00:00 +0100

Enjoy the beauty of Rome at your own leisure! The “Roma Pass” Tourist City Card offers a variety of services and discounts which make your visit in Rome much easier.

At a cost of only 23 Euros it offers services that worth over 40 Euros.

The “Roma Pass” lasts 3 days after being printed.

You will get:

free access to the city’s transportation networkfree access to the first two museums and/or archeological sites visitedpreferential access to all the visited sites and events in town.

You will be given a package including the Map of the City, Buses and Subways Timetables, the full List of Museums and Archeological Sites and the Program of all the Events in Town.

The new “Travel Health” service has recently being added, allowing tourists to access a dedicated Health Care service including First Aid Advice and direction to private and public structures accordingly with their needs and conditions.

You will find the “Roma Pass” at:

Rome Council Tourist Information Points ;
Rome Tourist Promotion Company ;
Complesso del Vittoriano;
All Museums and Sites participating;
Bioparco (Rome Zoological Garden);
Trambus in “Piazza dei Cinquecento”

Fill in the back of the card with your first and last name and enable the card upon your first transportation Journey or your first visit to a site/museum.

Always remember to show the card together with your ID in order to get discounts and preferential access.

With regards to the Transportation Network: the card is valid for three zones and for an unlimited number of journeys.

You will get free access to ATAC buses, metro lines A and B, Met.Ro trains, Rome – Ostia Lido, Rome - Viterbo (Rome - Sacrofano section), Rome - Pantano.

With regards to the Travel healt MET : The card enable for a First Aid Health Assistance.
By calling the multilingual Medical Call Center (English, French or Spanish) – service available on a 24/7 basis – you will be given all the information needed and pointed to the adequate public and private facility depending on the pathology occurred.

Check out the official site: http://www.romapass.it

[...]

'Making Worlds' at 53rd Art Exhibition in Venice La Biennale 2009

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

Daniel Birnbaum explains the meaning of Art Biennale in 2009, which he titled Making Worlds / Making Worlds.

The exhibition is the centerpiece of the 53rd International Art Exhibition of the Venice Biennale, from June 7 to 22 November 2009

[video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAAmglU-L00 600x400]

(check out more on La Biennale Channel )

Flea, Antique and Local Markets in Rome

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

If you are that curious type which loves peering into antique trade, collectibles, new and used clothing, shoes, vinyl and CDs, there are several places you should definitively go in Rome!

You will find here below the list of the most frequented open-markets in the Rome.

“PORTA PORTESE” MARKET:
Is the biggest and most famous of the markets in Rome.
It is open on Sundays only from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm..
It goes from the homonymous arch of “Porta Portese” (the very end of “Trastevere”) to “Piazza Ippolito Nievo” and to “Via Ettore Rolli”. The market holds over 1000 stands of every kind of goods/ antique furniture / collectibles / stamps and also shoes / clothing / kitchen utensils etc… It is extremely crowded and requires several hours to visit.
Website: http://www.portaportesemarket.it/

“PONTE MILVIO” MARKET
Open every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm in “Piazzale di Ponte Milvio”.
The 3rd Sunday takes place a special market made by handcrafted products.
For info call +39 335 5804254.

ANTIQUE TRADE IN “PIAZZA VERDI”
Open every 4th Sunday of the month from 9:00 am until dusk. It is held in “Piazza Giuseppe Verdi”.
For info call +39 06 8552723 – 8552773.

THE OLD STAMP MARKET IN “Largo della Fontanella Borghese”
Held on Mondays and Saturdays from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm. You will find here every kind of stamps and books.

“VIA SANNIO” MARKET
It is open from Mondays to Saturdays from 9:00 am to 1:30 pm (close to “San Giovanni in Lateran”)
Its name comes from the homonymous street hosting it. The market offers new and used clothes and shoes as well as accessories.

“BORGHETTO FLAMINIO”
Open on Sundays (except in August) from 10:00 am to 7:00pm.
It is held in Piazza della Marina 32 (next to “Piazza del Popolo”)
For info call +39 06 5880517.

For more info about markets visit http://www.060608.it [...]

A man draws Rome sightseeing from memory...

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

The first time I saw this video I couldn't believe it...this guy takes a ride over Rome on an helicopter and then draws the sighseeing from memory!

It's really impressive! Take a look!

[video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVqRT_kCOLI 600x400]

Capitoline Hill in Rome: a must see!

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

Piazza del Campidoglio, or Capitol Hill, is one of the seven hills on which the legend says Rome was founded.

Located on top of the homonymous Capitoline Hill it is a precious Michelangelo’s architectural design.
The staircase, the interweaved ellipsis pavement, the Marco Aurelio’s antique bronze are some of the most well known attractions in Rome.

The Palace of Senate, situated in Piazza del Campidoglio, is as of today the representative seat of the Rome City hall. It was built in the early XII century on top of the remaining ruins of two ancient roman’s buildings (“Temple Veiove”- 196 b.c. erected in honor of an ancient Italian divinity - and “Tabularium” - 78 b.c. the ancient roman archive). It took part to the widest Michelangelo’s Project in the early XIII century and got renewed in 1561.

The Palace of Senate began holding the first city hall representation in 1143 becoming indeed the seat of the first 50 senators administrating the civil and penal lows.

How far is Rome from Venice and what's the best way to get there?

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

Many of our clients are asking us how to go from Rome to Venice or from Venice to Rome,
how far is Venice from Rome and if they should go by train, by flight or by car.

The distance between Rome and Venice is about 520 kilometers.

By Train
By train it takes about 4 hours and a half station-to-station for something between 60€ (2nd class) and 90€ (1st class).
You basically leave from Rome Termini Station, which is the main central station in Rome and located in the city center, and end up in Venezia Santa Lucia Station which is on the island of Venice and you are ready to go!
Between Rome and Venice the train also stops in Florence and Bologna, a 5 to 10 minute stop each.
Eurostar trains are very comfortable, power supply for your laptop or to recharge your phone are available onboard, the journey itself is pleasant as the train crosses the Italian countryside and you can enjoy some nice views from your window from time to time.

You can check and book online your tickets with the official Italian Railway Company which is called Trenitalia http://www.trenitalia.it (english available).
You are supposed to choose the exact time and date of your train according to the schedule and your seats.
Pay attention as the dates you book can't be changed and if you are found travelling on a different train from the one you booked you'll be fined, controls are very strict.

You are not necessarily supposed to buy your tickets in Italy, or by an Italian travel agency company, you can book the tickets online, Trenitalia will send you an email or text message to your phone (or both) with the reservation number. Print your receipt and reservation number and bring it with you, wait for the ticket collector to come to your place (they check the train regularly back and forth) and you are all set.

Both when booking and when travelling our advice is make sure to look for Venice 'Santa Lucia Station' and not (Venice) Mestre Station, Mestre is in fact a different city from Venice and still on the mainland, you are most probably going to visit the island of Venice.

By Flight
From Rome to Venice it's about 1 hour flight. Prices really depend on the time and season and are subject to special offers. You might end up finding good deals even though it's usually more expensive than by train.
You are most probably travelling from Rome Fiumicino Leonardo Da Vinci Airport (the largest italian hub in Rome) and San Marco International Airport in Venice. Check out Alitalia website for availability and rates. http://www.alitalia.it (english available).

Chances are that you can find flights from Rome Ciampino International Airport and Treviso Sant'Angelo Airport, usually this are operated by low cost companies and namely Ryanair. This route is equally convenient as Ciampino Airport is as close to Rome as Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport and Treviso airport is about 1 hour by bus from Venice.

In both cases however you should consider that you'll have to be in the airport in advance (from 1 to 2 hours), go through all of the check-in security procedures and controls. The airports in Rome and Venice are not just as central as the railway station are so you have to consider the traffic, the additional time needed to go to/from the airport and the city center and the additional cost of taxi and transportation.

What's best?

Our advise is to use the train better than a flight since, at the end of the day, by flight it should be a little shorter but we consider it a more stressful and pricy option compared to going by train, but then it's up to you....enjoy your journey!

[...]

What do we talk about...

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

It's time to take a little break and do some art here at The Key to Italy... ;)

I've recently came across a nice tool from http://www.wordle.net/ and found it very interesting...here below are some 'posters' of our most used blog keywords.

They come in 3 version: white, colours and black.

Where to attend English Masses in Rome

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

Rome is said to have more than 1.000 churches itself. Visiting 3 churches per day it would still take a year to see them all!

Most of the masses are celebrated in Italian (or rarely in Latin), but if you are looking for English Masses in Rome you have plenty of churches where you can attend.

Here below the most well known churches in the city center of Rome with full address, area, phone number and mass schedule (mass schedule changes frequently and with seasons, please make sure to check for a updated/detailed schedule before attending).

Santa Susanna Church (American National Church)

Address: Via XX Settembre 15 (Via Nazionale/Termini Station)

Phone: 06 420 14 554

Sunday Masses: 6PM (Saturday) 9 and 10:30 AM.

http://www.santasusanna.org

The Church of St. Sylvester in Capite

Address: Piazza San Silvestro (Via del Corso / Spanish Steps Area)

Phone: 06 679 7775

Sunday Masses at 10 AM and 5:30 PM

http://romanchurches.wikia.com/wiki/San_Silvestro_in_Capite

The Pontifical Irish College

The residence for Irish seminarians in Rome

Address: Via SS. Quattro 1 (Colosseum Area)

Phone: 06 77 2631

Sunday Mass: 9:30am (Sept-June)

http://www.irishcollege.org/

St. Patrick's Church

Irish National Church

Address: Via Boncompagni, 60 (Via Veneto Area)

Phone: 06 420 3121

Sunday Mass at 10 AM.

http://www.stpatricksrome.com

Church of St.Ignatius of Loyola

Address: via del Caravita 8a (Pantheon Area)

Phone: 06 679 440

http://www.chiesasantignazio.org/en/

Caravita: The Oratorio of St. Francis Xavier

An international Catholic community in Rome

Address: Via del Caravita 7 - next to S. Ignatius of Loyola (Pantheon Area)

Sunday Mass: 11am

http://www.caravita.org

The Venerable English College

The residence for English seminarians in Rome

Address: Via Monserrato 45 (Campo de Fiori Area)

Sunday Mass: 10am

http://www.englishcollegerome.org

All Saints' Church

Anglican

Address: Via del Babuino, 153B (Spanish Steps Area)

Phone: 06 360 01 881

Sunday Masses at 8:30 and 10:30 AM

http://www.allsaintsrome.org

Rome Baptist Church

Address: Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, 35 (Via del Corso / Spanish Steps Area)

Phone: 06 687 6211

Sunday Mass at 10.30 AM in English

http://romebaptist.org

St. Paul's Within-the-Walls

Episcopal

Address: Via Napoli 58 (Via Nazionale/Termini Station)

Phone: 06 488 3339

Sunday Masses at: 8:30 and 10:30 AM, 1 PM in Spanish

http://www.stpaulsrome.it

Ponte Sant'Angelo Methodist Church

Address: Via del Banco di Santo Spiriti 3 (Castel Sant'Angelo/Navona Area)

Phone: 06 686 8314

Sunday Mass at 10:30 AM

http://www.methodistchurchrome.com/

St. Andrew's Church of Scotland

Presbyterian

Address: Via XX Settembre, 7 (Via Nazionale/Termini Station)

Phone: 06 482 7627

Sunday Mass at 11AM

http://www.presbyterianchurchrome.org

[...]

How to attend Papal Audiences

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

What is a Papal Audience?
Papal audiences are an unique opportunity for catholic tourists coming to Rome to meet in person the Pope live together with a restricted number of people!

The audiences are held almost every Wednesday of the year with some exceptions and breaks and are held indoor during the winter (October to March) and outdoor in a gated area in front of the basilica when the weather allows it(usually from April to September).

How to attend a Papal Audience?
The Weekly Audience usually begins between 10am and 10.30am depending on the time of year, and the entrance are managed accordingly.

Lines form much earlier however by the gates at the entrance for security checks(controls are similar to airport screening).In order to get a good seat it's better to arrive between 8:30am and 9am.

The audience lasts about 1 hour and a half, during which time the Pope will give speeches in various languages including English.

At the end of the Audience he will impart the Apostolic Blessing.

How to buy/request tickets for a papal audience?
Tickets are free but you must reserve them in advance by writing or faxing your request (indicating your language, the dates of your visit, the number of people in your party, etc.) to:

Prefecture of the Papal Household Holy See (http://www.vatican.va/various/prefettura/index_en.html)
Phone: 06-69884857
Fax 06-69885863
Mon–Sat 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
00120 Città del Vaticano

Here is some more information on how to reserve tickets

And here you'll find the Tickets request Form (a microsoft word document) to apply for the Tickets

When can I attend a Papal Audience?
As previously said Papal Audience are held almost every Wednesday with some exceptions, check out the Calendar of the upcoming events presided by the Holy Father .

How much in advance should I book the Audience?
We recommend booking the Audience at least a 2 weeks in advance. You might be able to reserve tickets also with just a few days notice but due to the high number of requests you might miss the chance if applying last minute.

How and where can I pick up my tickets?
You can pick up the tickets yourself at the Prefecture office entrance, near the porta di bronzo (bronze door) under St. Peter’s right colonnade from 15:00 to 19:30 on the preceding day or on the morning of the audience from 8:00 to 10:30.

Is there a 'Dress Code' for the Papal Audience?
Yes, the Vatican dress code requires no shorts or tank tops. Women's shoulders must be covered.
It's advisable to dress conservatively even if you are one of hundreds. Women wear dark-colored dresses, with unrevealing necklines and long sleeves, and cover their heads. Men wear conservative business suits. In the reserved section some men will wear formal morning dress, and most women will be in black with gloves and mantillas.

Private Agencies to reserve a Papal Audience
There are a number of companies and associations that offer the service of requesting the tickets on your behalf to the Prefecture of the Papal Household, picking up at the church your tickets on the afternoon before the Audience and delivering your tickets to your accommodation.

You will be asked for a fee which is usually independent from the number of people in your party and you basically pay for the ticket pick-up and delivery service and not the tickets which are free.

Santa Susanna, home of the American Catholic Church in Rome, offers a means of aquiring tickets to Papal Masses and Papal Audiences by filling out a web form and it's one of the most trusted organizations.

There are also a number of other private companies that you can easily find on the Internet.

Papal Audiences and the Sunday Angelus

Do not confuse the The Sunday Angelus which is led by the Pope in Saint Peter's Square at 12 Noon (no tickets are required for this) and the Papal Audience which is for a more restricted number of people.

Papal Blessings
Papal Blessing are a much more restricted opportunity to meet the Pope compared to Papal Audiences but it still does not necessarily mean that you will meet the Pope alone. It's also in very high demand for weddings,wedding anniversaries and First Communions.

For those who live outside of Rome, it can be pretty difficult and it could take a minimum of 2 months or longer.

You can contact the Papal Office directly for a blessing at:

Apostolic Blessings Office of Papal Charities
Phone +39 06 6988 3135
Fax +39 06 6988 3132 [...]

Bulgari. From History to Eternity. 125 Years of Italian Jewellery

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

When: from 22 may to 13 september 2009Where: Palazzo delle Esposizioni, via Nazionale 194, Rome
Bulgari has just marked its 125th anniversary of the opening of the first store in Rome in 1884. This leading italian jewellery firm has been an absolute star for the history of decorative arts since the beginning of its adventure.
More than 500 objects created from 1884 until 2009 illustrate the extraordinary quality, originality and style of the famous Roman maison.
The exhibition is organized in chronological order and with several thematic sections. Special attention is given to the Bulgari coins mounted in jewellery, to the serpent motifs and to the BVLGARI logo as a decorative element which are among the most significant themes of the Bulgari style. The Dolce Vita and the company's close ties with the film industry of the 1950s and 1960s have their own section and attention. Spectacular jewels worn by famous film stars such as Ingrid Bergman, Gina Lollobrigida, Sophia Loren, Anna Magnani will be available for the first time ever to admire. An entire room will be reserved for the extraordinary Bulgari collection belonging to Elizabeth Taylor: enormous emeralds and sapphires in magnificent diamond surrounds characterize the celebrated jewels of her love story with Richard Burton.
The exhibition is hosted in one of the most impressive spots that Rome dedicates to temporary exhibition and modern art: Palazzo delle Esposizioni. The building itself in it magnificent white marble beauty is worth a visit in itself. Spacious, stylish and bright with more than 10,000 square metres of space on three floors, Palazzo delle Esposizioni has just been completely renewed and sits here some 10-15 minutes walking distance from Piazza Venezia, Colosseum or Trevi Fountain. The best metro station to reach the exhibition with public transportation is 'Repubblica' on line A and then a 5 minutes walk down via Nazionale, or metro station 'Cavour' on line B and then a 5 minutes walk 'up the hill'. You can find more information on the official site of the exhibition [...]

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours A great way to experience Rome

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

Rome is a big city and rich of art and history at every corner, although you can easily walk all the top attractions in the city center of Rome it could be tiring after a while.

Bus Tours are a great way to explore the city in relax with an extensive hop-on hop-off itinerary through the heart of Rome. You can get off at any stop, take a walk of the area and then hop on the next bus at no additional cost for the validity of your ticket (1-2 days).

The buses are open top which allows you to enjoy full 360 degree panoramic views as you travel along your route.

This is a very family friendly service and is also a very good idea to jump start your vacation and get acquainted with the city, attractions, places and distances. Just have a tour, see what Rome has to offer, get off at your favourite place if you can't resist :) or take the whole loop and carefully choose your next top attraction to visit.

There are many different companies (up to 7) that operate very similar core routes around the Rome sights.
Although all tours are loops where you can start at any point, nearly all operators start at Termini Station the main central station of Rome, connected to both metro lines A and B.

Generally you have the choice of a 24 or 48 hours ticket with which to make use of the 12 to 20 stops in the most beautiful, cultural and evocative areas of the Eternal city. The tours operate 365 days per year.

Open Top Buses
All of the buses are open-top and equipped with a personalized throwaway audio system which functions more than 8 languages languages, providing recorded commentary throughout the tour. Ofter there is also an English and Italian speaking host onboard each bus to assist with any queries. You will be provided with a set of earphones which you keep and use for the duration of your ticket.

Itinerary
The itinerary usually goes from Termini Station passing the Colosseum and Roman Forum then Circus Maximus and along the River Tiber, where you can walk over to Trastevere. Then back again to the other end of the Roman Forum and then Piazza Venezia. From Piazza Venezia it stop along the way near the Piazza Navona and Pantheon and then straight to the Vatican crossing the River Tiber.
After the Vatican most buses will route through the Villa Borghese, Via Vittorio Veneto, Piazza Barberini, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Then back to Termini. Check out the travel map for the specific bus operator of your choice for the detailed route.

Ticketing and Prices
Prices are between 15€ and 20€ for a 1-day ticket and between 23€ and 25€ for a 2-day ticket
Average time for a complete tour and about 2 hours total time departing about every 15-30 minutes usually between 9am to 6pm (last departure from Termini station)
Most operators offer a discounted fare for children aged 6 to 12 years old.

Major Rome Bus Tour Companies

Open Tour '110 Open'City Sightseeing
Green Line Ciao Roma
Roma ChristianaArcheobus

A couple of them are more 'thematic' than the others and specifically:

- Roma Christiana in addition to the standard route has an extended tour that visits many Basilicas to the south of the city, Baths of Caracalla and is the only bus that visits Trastevere itself, even going up the hill behind Trastevere with great views down on the city.
- ArcheoBus goes through the centre of Rome and then along the famous Park of Via Appia Antica, and the Christian catacombs stopping at many of the major archaeological sites.

Enjoy your tour!

[...]

Hadrian's Villa – Villa Adriana

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

The Hadrian’s Villa resides in Tivoli – a picturesque town 17 miles distant from Rome.It was built in 117-128 AC by Roman Emperor Hadrian, involving a landscape of roughly 300 hectares, with the specific intent to become the imperial residence of the time.
Its complex of over 30 buildings includes: palaces, thermae, theatres, temples and libraries as well as rooms for courtiers, praetorians and slaves. Some of the major and more well preserved constructions being the “Pecile”, the "Maritime Theatre", The “Hospitalia” and the unchallenged “Canopus Serapeum”.
Hadrian was definitively a passionate aesthete; he indeed built the residence in a very peculiar way, full of innovations and anticipating various architectural styles – the circular holes on the apex of domes, for instance, were later on adopted in other constructions such as Pantheon and Villa Torlonia. He also introduced the brand new concept of underneath passages network specifically committed to servants in order to avoid unpleasant circumstances such as having servitude walking around throughout the most exclusive areas of the residence.
In the 16th century large part of the marble and many statues of the Hadrian's villa were removed to decorate the nearby located Villa d'Este. [...]

Special Events in Italy

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

After much talking about what to do in Rome and Venice, today I would like to recommend a great company run by my friend Valeria. It is an events management company – CEvents (http://www.cevents.net ) - which is focused on organizing Special Events in Italy. She can help you with: - private events: for example romantic weddings in small villages on the Amalfi coast, in historic centre of ancient towns or in the heart of an amazing nature reserves accessible only to a few people; birthday parties on stylish islands, in cosy chalet in the Dolomites or on modern roof garden of great Hotels.
- corporate events: week-ends in Italy (for example: Truffle tasting, Wine Tasting, Ferrari driving, Short Regatta, Heliski break…), business or gala dinners (private entrance to museum with dinner, on private boats, antique spots around Italy, dinner in the sky with balloon…), conferences (Venice, lake Como, Portofino, Porto Ercole, Tuscany.... wherever!!).
She has always been talented and stylish and if you are looking for a memorable experience, something that stands out from a stereotyped organization, something special with a touch of italian style...look no further!
Should you need more information, do not hesitate to contact her: vscianname@cevents.nethttp://www.cevents.net [...]

Estate Romana 2009 - Exciting events for your Roman Summer

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

The 'Estate Romana 2009' is back again! This is the traditional appointment with all kinds of events, arts, music etc. in Rome: an impressive 154 initiatives and 650 events (local and international) from June to September!
Many successful events of the previous editions are back. Our short list would go like this:Opera House in Caracalla: ballets and operas from Puccini (Tosca) and Bizet (Carmen)Concerts of 'Roma Incontra il Mondo' (Rome meets the world) in Villa Ada Rome: a daily meeting with ethnic and world music in one of the most beautiful villas in Rome 'Luglio suona bene' (July sounds good) at the Auditorium of Rome: the temple of arts and music in Rome.the 'Villa Celimontana Jazz Festival': listen to jazz music in a garden on top of the Celio hill, facing the Colosseum.lessons of Roman History on the Capitol hill: listen to representations of Roman Events where the things really happened in the past (italian only).
The special event this year is the concert of Bruce Springsteen at the Olimpic Stadium on July 19th.
For additional information and for the full list of events, please check the official site:http://www.estateromana.comune.roma.it/
enjoy a hot Roman Summer! :)

Workshops about Contemporary Arts, Architecture and Design in Rome

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

With its priceless historical and artistic heritage, with the flourishing of projects of contemporary architecture, with its network of cultural institutions, academies and international relations, as well as with its bent for services, movie production, and tourism, Rome provides the privileged environment for a completely cultural experience.
Since 10 years Rome choosed the landscape marketing to launch itself as a competitive brand in the cultural field, as many others european cities did (London, Paris, Bilbao) calling the most important international and national architects to work at the new buildings.In this enviroment Domus Academy and Irfi, organize a series of workshops and short courses concernig contemporary arts and architecture, cultural experiences, communication design and other topics.
For more Informatio checkout: http://www.domusacademy.it/corsibreviroma or write to romeshortcourses@domusacademy.it

The Garbatella neighbourhood: a true roman experience!

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0100

Would you like to spend some time far from the city's noise and traffic? Why not consider a stroll through a fairy-tale place like Garbatella? This unique destination is so magical that you will feel engulfted in its unforgettable charm.

It was founded in the 1920's and was laid out to host workers from other parts of Italy. For this reason the first houses were built with vegetable gardens so that the new residents could cultivate the food they needed. The initial style adopted to build the housing units, including connecting courtyards and ladders, known as a "barocchetto", was both elegant and refined. Visitors will find that, using the ladders to go back and forth and passing under the beautiful archways, is a pleasure all by itself.

Under Mussolini's regime, however, typical fascist buildings began to be built. This architecture can be characterised as monumental, rigorous and severe, almost to the point of disturbing the observer. An example of this rationalist expression can be seen clearly in the Cesare Battisti primary school with its Imperial eagles and the open-work bell tower. Observing this school building one is easily reminded of the dictatorship which lasted twenty years.

The strangest impression that strikes the visitor strolling through the famous roman quarter, known as well for its frequent use as a set for various TV series and movies, is the feeling, even more than in Rome, of being in a little village frozen in time. As you continue on your way, you will notice that the families here are used to gathering in the courtyards chatting in the open air and the women, returning home with shopping bags in hand, have that typical good-natured Roman look. Life in general moves along slowly and peacefully.

If you want a taste of roman life, the one old and genuine, a stroll through Garbatella is a "must". There you will encounter truly Roman people, who speak a roman dialect and demostrate the easy-going behaviour of the real Romans. A local symbol of this Roman-ness is Carlotta's fountain where young couples gather to drink of this water before the fateful kiss.

If you pass under Via Rublino's arch which is next to the Saint Isidoro and Saint Eurosia's church, the so called "chiesoletta", an obligatory stay for pilgrims of the seven churches, and walk along this green and quiet road, you will soon arrive at Piazza G. Sapeto within a few steps, one of the most fascinating squares of the district, going down the steps to your right, you can easily reach the above-quoted fountain for people in love.

Nanni Moretti,* in his movie Caro Diario, cites Garbatella as the dstrict he likes most and we are right to believe it. From his vespa, he points out the most impressive corners, which strike us with their unmistakable beauty. You will feel the same emotions that are stirred by scenes in his movie.

- How to get to Garbatella: Coming from Termini station, take the metro linea B, Laurentina direction, and get off at Garbatella stop.

*Nanni Moretti is one of Italy's most original and indipendent film directors. His movies are full of sense of humor and very interesting if you want to know a little more about italian society.

[video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fs1Psz20jw 600x400]

[...]

De Chirico Museum House: a metaphysical experience in Rome

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:00:00 +0100

Everybody has his own favorite painter, in Rome there is the house-museum of one of the greatest whom many admire and take in high esteem for his art: Giorgio de Chirico.

He was born in Volos, Thessaly, Greece. In the early years of his life he traveled around Europe knowing other culturally lively realities in Germany, France and Italy. It is right here, in Italy, that the maestro will settle for the rest of his life, in the country where the town squares stimulate that metaphysical sentiment the whole world has learned to appreciate thanks to his paintings.

We can define as metaphysical an artistic movement which has the purpose of catching the observer unprepared, an art producing a very marked sense of melancholy in he who peers at it, due to the fact that the urban landscapes portrayed are architecturally bared, lived in by shadows or imperceptible figures which stand out in the background. De Chirico's paintings engender pure bewilderment, the objects drawn close to each other are devoid of any logical relationship and solitude penetrates every corner of these squares, the mystery of which is not given to us to know.

Entering the house of the "pictor optimus" you will have the pleasant surprise of finding some of the most famous works like Pianto d'amore and Le Maschere. Unfortunately, the time at your disposition will not be much because you will have only forty-five minutes to carry out the visit and any overrunning of the time is not foreseen by the strict rules. A guide will accompany you among the various rooms introducing the subjects step by step and answering any questions you may have. (But who knows, perhaps you yourselves know more...)

Apart from the great living rooms which open to our sight, one of the curiosities you will have a way to note is de Chirico and his wife sleeping in different rooms. The room of the "pictor classicus" is of modest dimensions, very spartan, whereas the wife's one is slightly larger and more airy. Also from these peculiar clues it is possible to notice the genius's stigmata. The room where the maestro used to paint is on the last floor, and it will communicate to you an effect of extreme solitude. In this space he worked at his paintings every day. A full-blown Stakhanovite!

The commissions he received when he was still alive were innumerable and it is for this reason too that many fakes circulated and continue to circulate. In the past a great scandal burst and there were many talks about it. In the same way, de Chirico's positions have always been scandalous within the artistic circles of his time. In the full avant-garde period, de Chirico will detach himself from a certain experimentalism to retie a connection with the past and with classicism.

Inside the house-museum there are many paintings to see, so the cost of the ticket is more than reasonable, only five euros. At the exit there are many volumes on sale, even though the price is a little high. In case you would like to delve into it is advisable to seek cheaper books in the city center book-shops. They are not difficult to find. You can also leave a remark in the guest book, maybe reporting one of the catchy phrases written by de Chirico. A suggestion could be the statement that appears in his Autoritratto: "Mihi fama perennis quaeritur in toto semper ut orbe canar".

The Giorgio de Chirico House Museum is in Piazza di Spagna 31 ( metro stop Spagna )

[video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_yh0rruFg4 600x400]

[...]

Villa Pamphili: a relaxing park in the hearth of Rome

admin@thekeytoitaly.com — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 18:00:00 +0100

Villa Doria Pamphili is one of the greatest historical Roman villas. Located on the Gianicolo hill, in an area contiguous the Mura Aureliane's wall, is delimited in a side from one of the ancient tracks, Via Aurelia Antica, which runs parallel to the Acquedotto Traiano Paolo. Nowadays it is the prefered destination for jogging and bicycle lovers and is a short distance from the city centre.

The Quattro Venti arch represents the main entry and it is placed in Porta San Pancrazio. The most important building of the park is Villa del Bel Respiro, so named for his elevated position and the healthy air you could and still can breathe. The sumptuousness of rooms and gardens got the Gouvernament choose it as representative building to receive prime ministers. Villa Doria Pamphili hosts besides the Casa dei Teatri, in Villino Corsini, the ideal place for everyone searching peace and tranquillity for his study.

The Casino del Bel Respiro was ideated by the sculptor Algardi. Inside it has numerous rooms and halls embellished by painted stuccos. Outside it is possible to admire the Giardino Segreto composed by tangled labyrinths of hedges. In the 1800's the Villa was the teather of one of the most bloody battles for the defence of the Roman Republic: the french troops of Napoleon III occupied Villa Corsini and the strife with the garibaldians was inevitable. Towards the half-century the Casino del Bel Respiro was turned into a big agricultural estate. Only after 1870 it was maded over to Roman municipality and became a public park.

There are many fountains in this park, realized thanks to the presence of the Roman aqueduct, that was restructured by Paolo V at the end of XIV century. With regard to it we can cite the Giglio's Fountain. Starting from this fountain a canal spreads in lenght until his waters flow together to the lake called del Belvedere, surrounded by weeping willows. The purpose of Pamphili family was to try to repeat the prestige of the villa which belonged to the Imperator Adrian nearby Tivoli.

The aim has been achieved. The architecural and naturalistic beauties have contributed to make Villa Pamphili the most beautiful park amid the ones that alleviate the urban impact of the big city. Usually the tourists who come to the capital are used to visit Villa Borghese at their arrival, being this even more central. Well, we hope this article could change your preconception.

Be ready. The visit of the whole park will take you half day due to the huge expanse. It is possible to distinguish two macro areas, the former we talked about is the first. The other is the one with the pond, in the depths of wihich is pleasant to make out a various acquatic fauna. The two parts are cut across lenghtwise by the Olimpica street, even if lately a raised bridge, a pedestrian passage, has been built to connect the two areas.

It remains to wish you a good stroll. If you are a little more athtletic you will be spoilt for choice about running routes. You will have available even a jogging spot (via Vitellia, angolo via Leone XIII) where you will be able to find shower units, dressing rooms and facilities. Good run!

[...]