Rome via Brooklyn

793 words, 4 minutes read time – DOUBLE POST

The Capitoline Museum was everything I could have wanted and more. I felt so fortunate to be walking around in this space and seeing art that I’ve only ever seen in photos. To be honest, I spent most of the trip fighting back tears. Art and history make me so emotional. I think it’s because I can’t believe that I’m walking through and existing in a space that people just walked through everyday as a normal part of their routines. I’m always thinking about the people who came before us and how their legacies have shaped our present. It’s moments like these that solidify my choice to pursue ancient history full time and reassures me that, despite this big risk, it will be worth it in the end.

After we finished our group tour, I took time to explore the rest of the museum on my own. It was so beautiful and I had this overwhelming sensation of serenity as I explored the halls and rooms. I’m not sure why, but I was particularly drawn to these statues of women without eyes. It made me wonder about the artist’s intentions. Was this a common practice? Was there something there in place of the eyes? Maybe jewels? Was there some underlying motive behind omitting the eyes?Or was it purely a stylistic choice? And since I only found statues like this of women, I can’t help but wonder – why? Was it only women? Or are there examples of men without eyes? So many questions.

After the museum, I was left alone to explore on my own – the first time really doing so since being here. I took my time and allowed myself to wander wherever my heart desired. Eventually, I ended up in Piazza Navona. I didn’t enter the church, but the outside alone was stunning. The only downside being the overcast sky that seemed to cloud my photos in grey.

Eventually, I found myself in front of a little, not so crowded restaurant. I debated entering when the waiter approached me and asked if I wanted a table. I don’t usually sit down by myself to eat, but I figured now was as good a time to start doing so as any. Ever since I arrived in Italy, I’ve been DYING for artichoke. It’s one of my favorite foods, but nearly impossible to find good ones in the US. I’d never had them in this style before – cips di carciofo. While the leaves were a bit tough (especially from being fried) the “meat” was absolutely delicious and I savored every single bite. I also ordered meatballs, which were fine – I need to remember that they’re not my favorite, but something about them called to me.

I really took my time at the restaurant, embracing the culture of simply sitting and enjoying my meal and relaxing while I ate and drank. I was particularly proud of myself here as I committed to speaking only Italian, and it worked out perfectly. There were no hiccups and I was able to communicate effortlessly with the kind waiter. Overall, an excellent experience.

Since it was still early, I was anxious to stay outside. I knew that if I went back to the apartment that I wouldn’t go back out, and I really wanted to enjoy the day. Close by where I ate, I saw on Google Maps the Museo Leonardo da Vinci – Il Genio le Invenzioni — a museum dedicated to the inventions of Da Vinci. I figured, why not? Inside when I was paying and getting the self-guide headset, she asked if I wanted one in Italian, but she was completely surprised when I asked for English and complimented my Italian — another win!

The museum was really cool! I know Da Vinci’s art more than his inventions, so it was a really interesting museum. I’d obviously heard of his flying machines, but I had never heard of his aquatic inventions – particularly this nightmare inducing scuba suit. All in all, it was a pretty cool museum and I’m so glad I went!

After getting back home and resting, I made myself a bowl of pastina for the second night in a row. It’s my ultimate comfort food, and really reminded me of being home with Nonna. I feel sad for her – 1) because she’s home alone, just waiting for me to get back, and 2) she likely won’t be able to return to Italy in this lifetime. While I’m grateful and beyond excited to be here, a part of me feels guilty. Guilty because I left her home, and guilty because she can’t enjoy these things here with me. So, I will connect with her through this delicious, heart-warming bowl of soup. And I should probably call her …