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Pompeii offers a fascinating glimpse into prostitution in antiquity. The lupanars, or brothels, were lively and crowded ...
23/03/2025

Pompeii offers a fascinating glimpse into prostitution in antiquity. The lupanars, or brothels, were lively and crowded places where men from various social classes came together to seek companionship and pleasure. These spaces were not only dedicated to s*x but also to socialization, as evidenced by the frescoes and graffiti that tell stories of desire and passion.

There was even a kind of TripAdvisor of the time: customers indicated their satisfaction with marks on the entrance door of the room where the pr******te worked.

An interesting aspect is the distinction between “meretrices” and “pr******tes”. Meretrices often enjoyed a higher status, some had regular clients and could engage in their profession with dignity. They were often respected for their beauty and skills. In contrast, common pr******tes were more frequently stigmatized and lived in precarious conditions.

This difference in status reflects the complex social dynamics of the time, showing how deeply embedded s*xuality was in the daily life of Pompeii. The history of these places and the women who worked there continues to surprise us and make us reflect on human relationships in the past.

*x

Pompeii, the ancient Roman city preserved under volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., offers a un...
19/03/2025

Pompeii, the ancient Roman city preserved under volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of its inhabitants. The remarkably intact ruins provide insight into Roman architecture, with grand villas, public baths, and intricate mosaics that showcase the artistic achievements of the time.

The eruption of Vesuvius was a catastrophic event that caught the residents of Pompeii by surprise, leading to the rapid burial of the city under a thick layer of ash and pumice. This sudden disaster preserved buildings, artifacts, and even the remains of the people, creating a time capsule of Roman life. The layers of ash created a protective barrier, allowing archaeologists to uncover the city in remarkable detail, revealing the poignant stories of those who lived there.

As you explore the streets of Pompeii, you can sense the vibrancy of its social life. Lupanars, or brothels, reveal the complexities of relationships in ancient society, while bustling forums and public spaces highlight the importance of community and leisure.

The preservation of Pompeii stands as a testament to resilience and the passage of time, allowing visitors to connect with the past in a profound way. This archaeological wonder invites exploration and reflection on the lives of those who once thrived in this remarkable city.

The Domus dei Vettii is one of the most extraordinary and well-preserved residences in Pompeii. This house, belonging to...
17/03/2025

The Domus dei Vettii is one of the most extraordinary and well-preserved residences in Pompeii. This house, belonging to two free citizens named Aulus Vettius Restitutus and Aulus Vettius Conviva, dates back to the 1st century A.D. and is a perfect example of domestic architecture.

Its owners, who were former slaves turned wealthy (freedmen), embody the social mobility of the time. The house demonstrates how the free citizens of Pompeii could express their status through art and architecture.

The house is structured around a central atrium, a typical element of Roman domus, which served as a meeting and reception point. Surrounding this space are various rooms, including bedrooms, a banquet area, and an internal garden.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Domus dei Vettii is its frescoes, some of which depict mythological scenes and other events of daily life. The vibrantly colored images show deities such as Dionysus and Venus, reflecting not only the culture and religious beliefs of the Pompeians but also the personal taste of the owners.

Oplontis, an ancient Roman settlement located near modern Torre Annunziata in Italy, is renowned for its remarkably pres...
13/03/2025

Oplontis, an ancient Roman settlement located near modern Torre Annunziata in Italy, is renowned for its remarkably preserved ruins and historical significance. Among its most notable sites is the Villa of Poppaea, believed to be the luxurious residence of Poppaea Sabina, the wife of Emperor Nero.

The Villa of Poppaea is a stunning example of Roman architecture and artistry, featuring intricate frescoes, elaborate mosaics, and beautifully landscaped gardens. It reflects the opulence of the Roman elite during the 1st century AD, showcasing luxurious living spaces, baths, and an impressive array of decorative elements.

Visitors to Oplontis can explore the villa’s grand halls and rooms, marveling at the exquisite artistry that has survived the centuries. The vibrant frescoes depict mythological scenes and everyday life, offering a glimpse into the aesthetics and culture of ancient Rome.

The relationship between Nero and Poppaea Sabina is a significant aspect of Roman history. Initially married to another woman, Nero became infatuated with Poppaea, who was known for her beauty and charm. Their love story was marked by passion and tragedy: Poppaea became Nero’s second wife after he divorced his first wife, Octavia.

The couple’s relationship was not only romantic but also politically strategic, as Poppaea wielded considerable influence over Nero, often encouraging him towards more tyrannical decisions.

Nero’s obsession with Poppaea was evident in his lavish displays of affection, including the construction of the Villa of Poppaea in Oplontis, which served as a retreat for the couple. However, their relationship was fraught with tension, and it is rumored that Poppaea died under mysterious circumstances, possibly due to Nero’s actions, which led to great sorrow for the emperor.

The Vatican Gardens have a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. Initially, they were created during the Ren...
11/03/2025

The Vatican Gardens have a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. Initially, they were created during the Renaissance under Pope Nicholas III, who sought to transform the area into a lush retreat. The gardens were designed to reflect the ideals of beauty and harmony that characterized the period, featuring a variety of plants and intricate landscaping.

Throughout the centuries, various popes contributed to the development of the gardens. Pope Julius II expanded the gardens in the early 1500s, and later, Pope Pius XI commissioned significant changes in the 1930s, including the introduction of new plant species and the construction of fountains and sculptures that enhanced the aesthetic appeal.

The gardens also hold historical significance as they have been a place of contemplation for popes and a setting for important events. They symbolize the connection between nature and spirituality within the Catholic Church. Today, the Vatican Gardens remain a testament to the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Vatican City, reflecting centuries of care and devotion.

Discover our private Vatican gardens tour!

The Vatican Gardens have a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. Initially, they were created during the Ren...
11/03/2025

The Vatican Gardens have a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. Initially, they were created during the Renaissance under Pope Nicholas III, who sought to transform the area into a lush retreat. The gardens were designed to reflect the ideals of beauty and harmony that characterized the period, featuring a variety of plants and intricate landscaping.

Throughout the centuries, various popes contributed to the development of the gardens. Pope Julius II expanded the gardens in the early 1500s, and later, Pope Pius XI commissioned significant changes in the 1930s, including the introduction of new plant species and the construction of fountains and sculptures that enhanced the aesthetic appeal.

The gardens also hold historical significance as they have been a place of contemplation for popes and a setting for important events. They symbolize the connection between nature and spirituality within the Catholic Church. Today, the Vatican Gardens remain a testament to the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Vatican City, reflecting centuries of care and devotion.

Discover with us the Vatican Gardens in pur special tours!

Nestled in the picturesque Castelli Romani region of Italy, the Palazzo di Ariccia stands as a magnificent testament to ...
19/01/2025

Nestled in the picturesque Castelli Romani region of Italy, the Palazzo di Ariccia stands as a magnificent testament to the Baroque era, intricately linked to the influential Chigi family. The palace was notably commissioned by Cardinal Flavio Chigi, the nephew of Pope Alexander VII, who reigned from 1655 to 1667. This familial connection to the papacy played a crucial role in shaping the palace’s grandeur.

Designed by the renowned architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the Palazzo di Ariccia showcases an impressive blend of architecture and artistic expression. Bernini’s influence is particularly evident in the façade and the opulent interiors, which reflect the artistic trends of the time. The palace served not only as a residence for the Chigi family but also as a venue for cultural gatherings, where art and politics intertwined.

In recent years, the Palazzo has hosted exhibitions that celebrate Bernini’s work and his relationship with the Chigi family. These exhibitions provide a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the artistic legacy of Bernini, highlighting his role in the development of Baroque art and architecture. Visitors can admire sculptures, paintings, and designs that reveal the intricate connections between art, power, and familial ties during the papal reign.

The Palazzo di Ariccia, with its rich history and artistic significance, continues to attract art lovers and history enthusiasts alike, offering a glimpse into the opulence of the Chigi family and the brilliance of Bernini’s creations. A visit to this remarkable palace is not just a journey through art, it’s a step back in time to an era where architecture and power converged beautifully.

Today, I stopped here, in front of the London Eye, to admire a city I know well but that is always renewing itself. The ...
06/11/2024

Today, I stopped here, in front of the London Eye, to admire a city I know well but that is always renewing itself.

The evening walk is a privilege that I have lost in Rome due to all the work, but here it reconnects me with the idea of tourism that I love: not just highly organized but also about discovery.

Thanks to the WTM, we have many new itineraries and ideas for a 2025 full of travel and discoveries.

Ready to travel with Rome Experience? Not just in Italy, but in Europe!

Starting these London days of WTM, I’m wandering the city. Westminster is one of the most pleasant neighborhoods, especi...
04/11/2024

Starting these London days of WTM, I’m wandering the city. Westminster is one of the most pleasant neighborhoods, especially at night.

It is renowned for its majestic Houses of Parliament, where the pulse of British democracy resonates. The intricate Gothic architecture captivates visitors, reflecting centuries of political evolution. Just a short walk away is Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch.

This grand structure, featuring 775 rooms, serves both as a royal home and a venue for significant ceremonies. The palace is surrounded by a magnificent garden that spans 39 acres, featuring a lake, a tennis court, and over 350 types of wildflowers. It is the largest private garden in London.

Walking around the neighborhood I also came across a beautiful Henry Potter shop, now a real attraction for fans like me, who find themselves reconnecting the most famous points of the city with this fantastic saga.

More has to come in the next days!

The Apollo of Belvedere stands as one of the most iconic sculptures of classical antiquity, celebrated for its exquisite...
21/10/2024

The Apollo of Belvedere stands as one of the most iconic sculptures of classical antiquity, celebrated for its exquisite form and the grace it embodies. Created in the 2nd century BC, this masterpiece represents the Greek god Apollo, symbolizing beauty, art, and knowledge. Housed in the Vatican Museums, it has captivated art lovers and historians for centuries with its perfect proportions and dynamic pose.

Recently, the Apollo underwent a meticulous restoration aimed at preserving its beauty and ensuring that future generations can appreciate its significance. The restoration process involved advanced techniques to clean and stabilize the marble, addressing the wear and tear that has accumulated over the centuries.
During these efforts, researchers made a fascinating discovery: traces of color in the hair of the sculpture, suggesting that ancient Greeks may have painted their works to enhance lifelike qualities.

The Apollo of Belvedere has long inspired numerous artists, with Michelangelo being one of the most notable examples. The grace and idealized beauty of Apollo significantly influenced Michelangelo’s depiction of the face of Christ in his renowned Last Judgment. In this monumental work, Michelangelo captured the essence of divine beauty and human emotion, drawing on the classical ideals exemplified by Apollo.

The renewed Apollo of Belvedere now stands proudly, inviting visitors to marvel at its beauty and reflect on the legacy of classical art. This restoration not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the Apollo but also provides valuable insights into ancient sculpting techniques and the cultural context of its creation. The connection between Apollo and Michelangelo’s Christ serves as a testament to the lasting influence of classical art on the Renaissance and beyond, as artists continually draw from the beauty and ideals of the past to create works that resonate through time.

Roma Experience will be in London to attend the World Tourism Market from November 5th to November 10th. We can’t wait t...
10/10/2024

Roma Experience will be in London to attend the World Tourism Market from November 5th to November 10th.

We can’t wait to meet our beloved travel agents who have worked with us over the past years, as well as the new ones who would like to arrange a meeting with us.

We are organizing new luxury tours in the UK. For all information, to organize a meeting, or to plan your trips, please inquire at [email protected].

Let’s celebrate the London market together!

Jago, whose real name is Jacopo Cardillo, is a contemporary Italian sculptor known for his technical skill and the emoti...
06/09/2024

Jago, whose real name is Jacopo Cardillo, is a contemporary Italian sculptor known for his technical skill and the emotional depth of his works.

Jago’s artistic technique is characterized by extraordinary mastery in working with materials, particularly marble. He employs traditional tools and ancient methods, combining craftsmanship with a contemporary approach. His works require meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of form and light, elements that give his sculptures an almost lifelike quality.

One of his most famous works is the sculpture of Pope Benedict XVI, crafted from white Carrara marble. This sculpture is a tribute to the pontiff, depicted in a contemplative and serene pose. Jago has captured not only the lines and forms of Benedict XVI’s face but also the essence of his character and spirituality.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this sculpture is the particular technological innovation that Jago has integrated into the piece: the statue’s eyes are equipped with a mechanism that allows them to move. This element surprises viewers and adds a dimension of interactivity and life to the work. The movement of the eyes creates an effect of eye contact, making the sculpture even more engaging. The eyes seem to follow the observer, creating a direct emotional connection with the audience.

Jago has employed the technique of “contrapposto,” which gives movement to the figure, making it more dynamic and alive. The sculpture has been exhibited in various locations, eliciting admiration and reflections on the role of spirituality in contemporary art.

Constructed atop the grand ruins of the Baths of Constantine, Palazzo Pallavicini Rospigliosi was initiated in 1613 unde...
04/09/2024

Constructed atop the grand ruins of the Baths of Constantine, Palazzo Pallavicini Rospigliosi was initiated in 1613 under the design of Flaminio Ponzo, commissioned by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, the influential nephew of Pope Paul V, a notable patron of the arts. The expansive complex featured several small villas, including the renowned Casino dell’Aurora.

Designed by the Flemish artist Jan van Santen, for summer banquets and concerts, the Casino is a gem of Roman Baroque architecture.

The façade boasts magnificent reliefs sourced from Roman sarcophagi dating between the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, depicting classical mythology themes of love, death, and the soul’s immortality.

The Casino’s fame, however, rests on Guido Reni’s celebrated fresco of Aurora, painted on the ceiling of the main hall. Esteemed as a pinnacle of European painting for its color use and figure representation, the fresco portrays Aurora scattering flowers on earth as she precedes Apollo’s sun chariot, flanked by Phosphorus and the Hours.

Despite the site’s beauty, shortly after its completion, Scipione Borghese sold the estate to the Altemps family. After changing hands several times, it was acquired in 1708 by the Pallavicini-Rospigliosi family, who still own it today.

The square of Saint Ignatius owes its configuration to the architect Filippo Raguzzini, who created it around 1727-1728....
19/06/2024

The square of Saint Ignatius owes its configuration to the architect Filippo Raguzzini, who created it around 1727-1728.

The final arrangement of the space in front of the church was achieved by building normal residential houses instead of public buildings, as was customary.

The whole area is characterized by an extraordinary and original compositional unity. The geometric layout is derived from the combination of three ovals.

The architect juxtaposed some concave-shaped buildings against the extended facade of the church: among these, the central palace, now the headquarters of the Carabinieri Command for the protection of cultural heritage, has an unusual triangular plan, while the concave facade, on four levels, is adorned with balconies and wrought iron railings.

The configuration of the square aims to impress passers-by, enhancing the contrasts in size between the modest houses and the massive travertine facade of the church.

Discover this hidden gem of Rome, just few steps from the Pantheon, with our city stroll tour!

The Hercules Mastai was discovered by chance in 1864 by workers during the renovation of Palazzo Pio Righetti, near Camp...
03/04/2024

The Hercules Mastai was discovered by chance in 1864 by workers during the renovation of Palazzo Pio Righetti, near Campo dei Fiori.

Suddenly, an enormous finger emerged from the ground, believed to be part of a gigantic statue. The construction work was halted, and excavation began, revealing the most astonishing golden statue from antiquity.

Thirteen feet tall, the Hercules Mastai is a copy of an original Greek sculpture from the 4th century BC, possibly dating back to the 3rd century AD.

The statue has survived through the centuries because it was struck by lightning and, according to Roman ritual, which considered it a divine sign from Jupiter, it was buried under travertine slabs.

Recently restored by a team of experts from the Vatican Museums, who carefully removed the accumulated wax over the years, the statue can now be admired in all its splendor in the Rotunda Hall.

The statuary group depicting the death of Laocoön and his two sons, Antiphates and Tymbreus, while they are crushed by t...
04/02/2024

The statuary group depicting the death of Laocoön and his two sons, Antiphates and Tymbreus, while they are crushed by two sea serpents, as narrated in the epic cycle of the Trojan War.

The episode mentions the revenge of Athena, who desired the victory of the Achaeans on the Trojan priest of Apollo, who tried to oppose the entry of the Trojan horse into the city.

When the sculptural group was discovered, although in a good state of preservation, it showed the father and the younger son both missing their right arms.

Although some clues showed that the right arm was originally bent behind Laocoön’s shoulder, the opinion that hypothesized the arm was extended outward, in a heroic and highly dynamic gesture, prevailed. The integration was carried out in terracotta by Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli.

In 1906 the archaeologist Ludwig Pollak fortuitously found the original right arm of Laocoön the workshop of a Roman stonemason, which was bent, as Michelangelo had imagined: the limb, purchased by the archaeologist himself, was donated shortly afterwards to the Vatican and relocated to the shoulder only in 1959, by Filippo Magi, who removed all non-original additions, according to the principles of modern restoration.

With Roma Experience key master’s tour you have the incredible chance to admire the back of the statue, where is preserved the old additional arm.

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