Carnival in Rome

We flew to Rome for a few days today from Paris, arriving mid-afternoon. It was late by the time we headed out for a walk, to the nearby Piazza del Popolo, where the Carnevale Romano is in progress (for ten days). An entire arena has been set up on one side of the huge square (beyond the blue tower); horses are the main focus.

In the upper left of the image are two domes and the bell tower belonging to the church of Santa Maria del Popolo. It was our main objective, above all two paintings by Caravaggio (the conversion of St. Paul and the crucifixion of St.Paul)--incredibly vivid scenes; I had forgotten how wonderful they are. There is also a fresco by Pinturicchio that we love, and much else that we see need to go back for.

Rome is the best single place to see Caravaggio (one of our very favorite artists), and we will seek out everything possible--I will report :)