How sturdy it looks, this Ponte Fabricio, wouldn’t you say? And for good reason! This bridge, dear travelers, is no spring chicken. It has stood here, gracefully arching over the Tiber River, since 62 BC. That’s right, it’s the oldest surviving bridge in Rome, a testament to the engineering prowess of the ancient Romans. Its creator, Lucius Fabricius, whose name it proudly bears, was a man of importance, the superintendent of roads. His inscription, etched in the travertine stone, can still be read today, a lasting reminder of his contribution to the city. Look closely, and you’ll see the inscription mentions Janus, the two-faced god of beginnings. It’s fitting, don’t you think? For the Ponte Fabricio, while ancient, represents a beginning, a connection between the bustling city and the tranquil Tiber Island. For centuries, people have crossed this very bridge: emperors and citizens, merchants and artists, all leaving their mark on its weathered stones. The Ponte Fabricio is more than just a bridge. It’s a silent sentinel, a whisper from the past, and a reminder of the enduring spirit of Rome.
Chiesa Nuova
Doesn’t this church seem to pulsate with energy? The Chiesa Nuova, also known as Santa Maria in Vallicella, has a