Sunday, January 16, 2011

A Walk in Trastevere

Trastevere ("Across the Tiber") is a picturesque older neighborhood on the west bank of the Tiber, across the river from the main part of the ancient city.  It is still characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, beautiful old churches, and sunny squares full of cafes and ice-cream shops.  We spent the better part of a Sunday checking out the flea market, eating Chinese food, and visiting the church of Santa Maria in Trastevere.

Santa Maria in Trastevere dates back to the third century and is thus one of the oldest official places of Christian worship in Rome.  The exisiting church dates from the 12th century and is the home of magnificent medieval mosaics on the facade and in the apse.
Here are some pictures from our walk:  http://picasaweb.google.com/SteveDC505/AWalkInTrastevere#

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