Salambo Blog

Living in Rome

A writer’s house

The writer Alberto Moravia was a major figure in 20th century Rome. Not only was he one of Italy’s most popular writers, but he was also a presence in the … Continue reading

May 16, 2011 · Leave a comment

Meeting at the Circolo

Modern Rome was built around the administration of the new government following the country’s unification in 1861. Whole new neighbourhoods were erected around the turn of the century for the … Continue reading

May 10, 2011 · Leave a comment

Urbi et Orbi

It is difficult to write about Rome without mentioning the still overwhelming presence of the Pope and the Vatican. As is the custom on Christmas and Easter day, the Pope … Continue reading

April 25, 2011 · Leave a comment

Piazza di Spagna

My favourite time to go to Piazza di Spagna is early in the morning, between 8 and 9 am, before it gets too busy. The light is already quite bright, … Continue reading

April 7, 2011 · Leave a comment

Rome’s best swimming pool

Finding a swimming pool in Rome is no easy task. There are a few but they tend to be part of rather outdated yet expensive private sports clubs. One of … Continue reading

April 4, 2011 · 2 Comments

An olive grove in the middle of the city

Italy is well known for its many monasteries, usually located in beautiful and peaceful settings to favour a life of meditation.  However, one such monastery exists in a very urban … Continue reading

March 31, 2011 · Leave a comment

Italy celebrates…

All shops and offices are closed today in Rome for the 150th anniversary of the Italian Unity. On that very day in 1861, the newly formed Italian Parliament proclaimed Vittorio … Continue reading

March 17, 2011 · Leave a comment

The weight of tradition

Rome is a city of traditions, a city of the past, where rituals stay alive century after century. Among the odd ones in my view is the celebration held every … Continue reading

March 16, 2011 · Leave a comment

Relaxing in a thermal pool

Italy is well known for its thermal baths and spa resorts. After all, the tradition started two thousand years ago, when the Romans developed sophisticated water systems and aqueducts. The … Continue reading

March 7, 2011 · Leave a comment

Breathing contemporary art

Rome is slowly trying to catch up with other major cities for contemporary art venues. Its newly opened contemporary art museum, the MAXXI, designed by the celebrated anglo-iraqi architect, Zaha … Continue reading

February 18, 2011 · Leave a comment