The Spanish side of Rome!

We were up at the crack of dawn on our first day in Rome - why - our apartment and the whole building had lost power - so it was time to search for a hot cuppa somewhere. How quiet it was in this extremely "touristy" spot.

The sky was still trying to lighten, but the azaleas up the Spanish Steps and also the towers of the Trinita dei Monti looked outstanding, even in the dimish light.

How lucky were we being here at the same time as the Azaleas

They only last here in flower for around 2 weeks

Looking down to the Fontana della Barcaccia in Piazza di Spagna The Carriage Horses move in for their days work and Piazza de Spagna starts livening up for the day

The "roasted chestnut" vendors also set up for their day of selling - wonderful aroma from these stalls.

The Spanish steps were built in the 1720s to link the square with the French Church, Trinita de Monti, it is the most famous square in Rome - it takes its name from the Palazzo di Spagna (above) built in the 17th century to house the Spanish Embassy - above.

The Brig takes time out to look at this "beauties" there were displays of these machines all over Rome - with rather large bodyguards surrounding them. We decided to walk - no real idea of route - but then we thought - let's head to the Tibus, we were in the mid morning "peak hour", cars everywhere, and these magnificently dressed police totally controlling traffic and pedestrians - they do love their uniforms - these italian men, and a few women.

The Tibus does not have the charm of the Seine in Paris, or the Thames in London,

It does not have the "flow rate" of the Seine or Thames

However, a general clean up would be great

One of those Red "Hop on - Hop off" buses turned up we jumped aboard in Piazza san Pietro

The Beatification of Pope Paul was in 3 days

We drove under magnificent Roman walls

not enough time anywhere - and just too many photos to take!!

Below is where Julius Ceasar was assasinated by Brutus, Cassius and their followers on 15 March 44 BC.

The remains of these 4 temples were discovered in the 1920s at the centre of Largo Argentina, and are amongst the oldest found in Rome

Back up the lane to our Apartment Hotel - with or without power?

What a crowd compared to 8 am this morning.

Yep, I think the Brig is on pace for a "happy hour" Cafe - not ready to mingle with all those Tourists - around our place!!!

A delightful first day in so much history