Italy 1 - Rome

For a couple of months, it felt like every free minute I had, I was online looking up museum tours, train tickets, apartment rentals for our trip to Italy this past June. We were there for 9 days, stayed in 4 cities, visited family, made new friends, discovered new cocktails, saw lots of sunflower fields, ate, drank, remained unscathed by other Italian motorists, and honestly came to appreciate many things in our American lives back home.
It was fun, but like I've said before, I needed a vacation after this vacation. There is so much to see and do, so many gelato places to try! Ancient buildings to admire, learn about, famous art to see, neighborhoods to visit, wine to drink, etc. I find it impossible to sit still when there's so much possibility around me!
We stayed in Rome, Umbria, Florence and Venice; and also visited Assisi and Perugia. I would return to all - but probably narrow that list down to maybe two towns, and stay longer in each. That way relaxing could happen. And I love getting to know a place by just walking around without any specific time frame or agenda.
Here are some photos....

Uncle Pino, with plant in hand

The above are photos of Trastevere, the oldest part of Rome, and my Uncle's favorite part. One afternoon he took us around. Being a passenger in his car is an experience unto itself. I really liked what he showed us, but our exploration on foot was cut short due to torrential rain and pending dinner reservations. I would like to beeline to this part of town on the next trip, for art, building viewing and lots of cute cafes and bars.
One of the best tours we did was a tour of the Colosseum, including the newly opened underground. It was fantastic.

Details from the underground

the Colosseum

Views and surrounding the Colosseum

Another Gallery we went to in Rome was the Galleria Borghese, which was conveniently located a short walk from my Aunt and Uncle's house. Luckily we were able to escape the downpour during our 2 hour self guided tour. Of course there were many beautiful pieces of art, many, many sculptures. But what I really found intriguing were the mosaics. The ones I show were in the floor.