Postcards from Rome

The Romans, who had a thirst for power and knowledge, were eager to learn from the Greeks. They admired their philosophy and art and copied the Greek culture. Rome, as the capital of the Roman Empire, was the epitome of Greco-Roman culture and the expression of the military might behind one of the most extended empires in history, The Romans were able to conquer the Mediterranean region because they had an army of professional soldiers and their own powerful navy. In many places of this unique city, still expressing the power of Ancient Rome after two thousand years from the creation of the Roman Empire. One of these magnificent sites in the Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheater ever built and still standing to these days.

Rome today is the result of so many different layers of architecture and culture that produce an unique place where the history of Europe has been forged for centuries. Power and beauty are transpiring everywhere you walk and visitors cannot escape the sense that this was a commanding place but also a pleasant city for people to enjoy. The Fountain of Trevi, banged in the middle of the city, is a typical example of the spirit of an urban architecture that was built to impress and entertain its population.

And entertainment is indeed a red thread throughout the ages in Rome, not only during ancient times. Once the city became the capital of the young Kingdom of Italy and the royal court moved to Rome from Turin, there was the need for new theatres to be built, with a new Opera House being top of the list there. Opened in November 1880 as Theatre Costanzi and with a seating capacity exceeding 2,000 places, it is now a major theatre in Rome with a capacity of 1,600 spectators.

Rome of course remains a centre of political relevance, being the capital of Italy and also the host city for many international organisations, including UN agencies like the FAO. The seat of the President of the Republic of a Italy is within a palace that was previously the representation palace for popes, kings and heads of government. It was also chosen to be the main imperial residence for Napoleon Bonaparte but he never managed to live there because of the failures of his late military campaigns.

Cooking traditions in Rome match the rest of cultural characteristics in the city and offer a wide range of ingredients and dishes that are quite distinct from the rest of Italy. Pasta of course features quite heavily on the local menus but also meat dishes prepared with all kinds of cuts of beef and lamb. Fish and seafood from the nearby coastal area is also very common and deliciously prepared.