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Category: Travertine and Rome’s Landmarks
The Evolution of Souvenirs: From Ancient Rome to Modern Keepsakes
Souvenirs have always played a key role in preserving the memory of a journey. Whether it’s a small trinket from a local market or a handcrafted item from a skilled artisan, these keepsakes help us carry a piece of our travels back home. But where did this tradition begin? To understand the origins of souvenirs,…
How Did the Months Get Their Names? The Roman Origins of Our Calendar
Have you ever wondered why the months of the year are named the way they are? From January to December, each month has a name steeped in history, mythology, and Roman tradition. The story of how these names came to be is a fascinating journey through the evolution of the calendar, shaped largely by the…
The Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls and Its Connection to Travertine
The Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls is one of Rome’s most majestic and historically significant churches. Situated along the Via Ostiense, it honors Saint Paul, who is believed to be buried beneath its main altar. Known for its architectural splendor and historical significance, it is also a key site for pilgrims during Jubilee…
Saint Peter’s Basilica: The Jubilee Door of Redemption
Saint Peter’s Basilica is the most iconic of the four papal basilicas in Rome, standing as a monumental tribute to Christian faith and artistic achievement. As the heart of Catholicism and a focal point for pilgrims, its Holy Door serves as a gateway to spiritual renewal during Jubilee Years, inviting the faithful to experience God’s…
Saint Paul Outside the Walls: The Jubilee Door of Apostolic Faith
The Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, a majestic landmark on the outskirts of Rome, is one of the four papal basilicas and a focal point for pilgrims during the Jubilee Year. It houses a Holy Door, symbolizing spiritual renewal and connection to the Apostle Paul, whose tomb lies within its sacred walls. A…
Santa Maria Maggiore: A Jubilee Door to Divine Grace
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the four papal basilicas in Rome, stands as a beacon of faith, art, and history. Known for its breathtaking mosaics and its status as a major pilgrimage site, this basilica holds one of the Holy Doors opened during the Jubilee Year. A Jewel of Devotion Santa Maria…
The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano: A Jubilee Door Framed in Travertine
The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, or St. John Lateran, is one of Rome’s most important and historic churches. Known as the “Mother of All Churches,” it is the cathedral of the Pope as the Bishop of Rome and holds a unique place in the spiritual and architectural legacy of the city. One feature…
How Was Travertine Quarried in Ancient Times?
Ancient Romans mastered the extraction of travertine, a material that would go on to define some of the city’s most iconic structures, including the Colosseum and the aqueducts. This durable stone was primarily sourced from quarries in Tivoli, a city just outside Rome, and its extraction involved a blend of technique, manpower, and clever engineering…
Trevi Fountain: The Heart of Rome’s Eternal Wishes
The Trevi Fountain, or “Fontana di Trevi,” is much more than just a fountainit’s a symbol of Rome’s timeless charm and romance. This stunning Baroque masterpiece, completed in 1762 by architect Nicola Salvi and later perfected by Giuseppe Pannini, has been capturing the hearts of visitors for centuries. Set against the backdrop of a historic…
The Baths of Caracalla: Rome’s Grandest Ancient Spa
If you want to step back into the grandeur of ancient Rome, few places can match the scale and majesty of the Baths of Caracalla (Terme di Caracalla). Built between AD 212 and 216 during the reign of Emperor Caracalla, this massive public bathing complex was not only a feat of engineering but also a…
Villa Borghese: Rome’s Green Heart with a Touch of Elegance
Amid the hustle and bustle of Rome, there lies a serene oasis where nature and art harmonize—Villa Borghese. This sprawling park, one of the largest in the city, is not just a retreat from the busy streets but also a symbol of Rome’s grandeur, offering lush gardens, artistic treasures, and sweeping views. A Garden Fit…
Castel Sant’Angelo: A Fortress of Travertine and Roman Legacy
Perched majestically on the banks of the Tiber River, Castel Sant’Angelo stands as a symbol of Rome’s layered history. From its beginnings as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum to its later use as a papal fortress, this iconic structure has undergone several transformations, yet, its core remains deeply connected to the ancient materials that built Rome, including…