Arrivederci, Roma

As we prepare to depart Rome tomorrow morning, we offer these final images of one of the great cities of the world, as it prepares for Christmas.  Today was a Public Holiday for Immacolata Concezione, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception when churches across Italy unveil their nativity scenes, Rome is festooned with floral wreaths, live music is performed throughout the city and there is much excitement. 

Of course, being a Public Holiday so close to the gift-giving season, many Italians headed to the shops, which were all open for trade.  The streets were absolutely thronging with people today and the vast majority were carrying crisp shopping bags with new purchases, regardless of Italy's economic woes.  The atmosphere today was wonderful.  We wandered around, taking one last look at the Fontana di Trevi, Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo, via Condotti, the Colosseum, Roman Ruins and just a few more beautiful churches.  Late in the afternoon we found ourselves at a cafe in front of the Pantheon, enjoying a cold glass of white wine, cheese platter and bruschetta.

Arrivederci, Roma.  Thanks for being eternally wonderful.

D1