FEBRUARY 2024
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ORIGINS &
DESTINATIONS Rome
Do & See
all the Roman must-see’s
Photography
Tips
this edition: Architecture
Dress Like
An Italian
masters of effortless style
Espresso
Culture
the soul of a tiny cup
For
Kids
fun facts, games & stories for young travelers
LIVINGNOTES® COPYRIGHT 2024
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Letter from
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* P l e a s e n o t e t h a t t h e l i g h t d i s t o r t i o n s v i s i b l e i n s o m e o f t h e i m a g e s a r e t h e by p r o d u c t o f t h e s o f t w a r e used to create this editorial, and that they do not appear in the original pictures or prints.
Origins & Destinations - Greece 3 A trip to Rome was not on the plan. Or, rather, it was, just not in December. As they say in Italy, sfidare la sorte has thrown a few curves in my life, and in search of healing for my little Elia, we boarded a plane to Rome on December 2nd.
Italy greeted us with war mth, love, care, compassion, and, most importantly, hope. As I walked through the streets of Rome in little time free from hospital visits, I understood why. T he qualities that are so essential in life but are being dismissed more and more in wester n world, are the core of Italian culture. T heir love for life is real. T heir appreciation for beauty is in every step. You can’t help but see things in a different, better, light. Hope is engraved in every cor nerstone of every building. You see it. You feel it, too. T his issue is coming out right at the start of the new year. I want you to make a wish. T hen, imagine yourself by the Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin with your eyes closed. Italians say, it comes true. I want to believe that mine & Elia’s will too. T his edition is different from anything you’ve seen before. Apart from new artistic takes, Rome editorial is dedicated to little Elia. As you tur n its pages, let yourself transport to the place that is filled with beauty, life & happiness. T he essence of La Dolce Vita. Olya Hill
DO & SEE
Ro m e h a s s o m u c h t o o f f e r ! H e r e i s w h a t yo u m u s t s e e. . .
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COVER IMAGE BY BOBBY AMIREBRAHIMI @POINTDEVUE.ART
MASTHEAD & C O N T R I BU TO R S OLYA HILL
EDITOR IN CHIEF & PHOTOGRAPHER
BABAK AMIREBRAHIMI EDITOR & PHOTOGRAPHER
HELLO@ONDTRAVELGROUP.COM +1 (415) 653-9054
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D E S T I N A T I O N DO & SEE PEOPLE
IN
WHEN
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I W I S H I K N E W. . . CHECKLIST W H E R E T O S T AY P L AY L I S T
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ITALIAN CUISINE I T A LY: A C U L I N A RY PA R A D I S E B E S T P L A C E S T O E AT E S P R E S S O C U LT U R E E AT L I K E A L O C A L
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ORIGINS
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Histor y T he Enduring Marvels of Rome:
A Jour ney through Time Walking through the vibrant streets of moder n Rome, you can feel the heartbeat of a city that’s a mix of bustling markets, ancient stories, & the buzz of contemporary life. As Italy’s capital, Rome is alive with an energ y that blends old tales with the liveliness of today, inviting everyone to dive into its deep history, rich culture, & timeless allure.
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A Journey from a Humble Village to the Famed Eternal City More than two millennia ago, Rome’s story began as a modest settlement perched along the banks of the Tiber River. The legendary tale of Romulus and Remus, nurtured by a she-wolf, adds a mystical touch to the city’s origins. These mythical twins, believed to be the founders, laid the foundation for what would evolve into one of the most influential civilizations in human history. From its unassuming beginnings, Rome’s growth was nothing short of remarkable. What once started as a small village gradually expanded, attracting people from nearby settlements and turning into a bustling hub of activity and trade. The strategic location of Rome, along the river and at a crossroads of trade routes, played a significant role in its development. As Rome flourished, its influence extended far beyond its boundaries. The city’s rise to power marked the beginning of a transformative journey that would shape the course of Western civilization. From this unassuming village emerged a mighty civilization that not only conquered vast territories but also established a legacy that endures to this day.
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The Epic Rise of the Roman Empire: A Tale of Dominion and Advancement The metamorphosis of Rome from a mere republic into an awe-inspiring empire remains one of the most captivating sagas in the annals of human history. What began as a modest system of governance evolved into an imperial powerhouse that commanded authority over a significant swath of the known world. This transformation witnessed Rome soaring to unprecedented heights under the leadership of notable figures such as Augustus, Trajan, and Hadrian, leaving an indelible mark in realms of architecture, engineering, law, and imperial governance. The Republic’s Evolution into an Empire Seeds of Power Sown The transition from a republic to an empire marked a pivotal era in Roman history. This transformative period was ushered in by Augustus, known as Rome’s first emperor. His rule, beginning in 27 BC, not only centralized power but also laid the groundwork for the empire’s expansion and stability. Augustus, once known as Octavian, inherited a Rome torn by civil war and strife and transformed it into a realm of order and prosperity.
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The Reign of Augustus Crafting an Empire Under Augustus’ adept leadership, Rome witnessed a wave of architectural marvels & urban development. The Pax Romana (Roman Peace) prevailed during his reign, fostering an era of relative stability that allowed the arts and culture to flourish. Monumental structures such as the Ara Pacis, a grand altar dedicated to peace, and the splendid Augustus of Prima Porta statue celebrated his rule and the prosperity it brought. Trajan’s Triumphs Expanding Horizons The reign of Emperor Trajan marked an era of territorial expansion and unparalleled achievements. His conquests stretched Rome’s boundaries to their furthest extent, encompassing regions from Britain to Mesopotamia. Trajan’s legacy extends beyond military triumphs; his architectural feats, notably the grand Trajan’s Forum and the impressive Trajan’s Column, immortalized his reign and military successes. Hadrian A Visionar y Leader Emperor Hadrian, known for his passion for culture and architecture, steered Rome toward intellectual and artistic greatness. His reign witnessed the construction of the aweinspiring Hadrian’s Wall in Britain, which stood as a testament to Rome’s engineering prowess. Hadrian’s Villa, an expansive retreat near Tivoli, remains a captivating testament to his appreciation for beauty and architectural innovation. Rome’s Master y in Law, Engineering, & Governance The glory of the Roman Empire was not solely in its territorial expansions. Rome excelled in crafting laws and systems that formed the backbone of governance for centuries to come. The establishment of a standardized legal system, the ingenuity in constructing aqueducts and roads, and the deft administration of such a vast empire laid the foundation for modern governance, engineering, and legal principles.
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Conclusion The Enduring Legacy of Rome’s Empire The rise of the Roman Empire, marked by the reigns of Augustus, Trajan, Hadrian, & others, stands as an epoch of immense achievement and cultural brilliance. The empire’s legacy, etched in its monumental structures, laws, and administrative systems, continues to echo through the corridors of history, serving as a testament to the brilliance, innovation, and far-reaching influence of an ancient civilization that shaped the world we know today.
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The Resilient Echoes of Ancient Rome: Unraveling Architectural Marvels Through Time’s Tapestr y In the tapestry of history, Rome stands as a vibrant thread, woven with the intricate and awe-inspiring fabric of architectural wonders. As one delves into the annals of the city’s past, these edifices reveal the indomitable spirit and innovative prowess of ancient Roman engineering and design. Within the realm of history, the architectural heritage of Rome holds tales of triumph, innovation, and artistic brilliance. The Colosseum An Icon of Spectacle and Entertainment The Colosseum, an iconic symbol of ancient Roman engineering, transcends time as it beckons visitors to the heart of grand spectacles. This colossal amphitheater, completed in AD 80, hosted gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, & staged dramas, epitomizing Rome’s mastery in architectural design & entertainment. The Pantheon Where Divine Architecture Meets Enduring Grandeur Step into the Pantheon, a celestial haven born from Roman innovation. Built circa 125 AD, its awe-inspiring dome, a pinnacle of architectural finesse, continues to mesmerize with its sheer magnificence. The oculus, a celestial eye in the dome, bathes the interior in natural light, a testament to the ancient Romans’ ingenious structural design.
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