Back in Rome

Forte Prenestino

I returned this weekend from a whirlwind trip to 5 US cites plus Barcelona, and I’m doing a good job renewing my faith in Roma Caput Mundi.  How? Monday I biked around the Centro Storico, ran into good Romans everywhere and ignored the rude ones. Tuesday I biked out to the Forte Prenestino and met my students for whom I had arranged a visit to the squat/social center that has been self-governing since the mid 80s. Amazing. Yesterday I was in Testaccio/Ostiense at an aperitivo sponsered by ArtTribune and RomaEuropa, followed by a cheap dinner/aperitivo at Doppia 0.  Met some good people and saw the Rome that resists. And today, leading a walking tour focused on Bernini and Borromini, I saw again the city that I grew to love years back. Buried in tourists, corrupt politicians and automobiles, yes, but Rome nevertheless.  My desire to SAVE ROME is renewed!