Retrospective

My last seven weeks in Rome have been the most memorable, exciting and educational ones in my life, thus far. Although I was aware of the amazing achitecture and history that is present in the eternal city, I couldn't have prepared myself enough, for what I was able to retain and observe about the different culture change, and every day life in Rome.

These blogs have helped me express my daily encounters and interesting personal experiences that have happened during my stay. I picked my first theme, about panini's, immediately because of my first day at the snack bar, where I had a new appreciation for sandwiches. Although my blogs were not centered entirely around the sandwich itself, I found it interesting to actually take in account the different places and panini's that are offered all over Italy. I found that panini's were the most popular in Rome, which probably explains why they are found at every basic bar or stand. I will not only miss the delicious, warm, fresh panini's of Rome, but I'll miss the bars and the people I have met during my quick lunches and snacks.

My next theme was focused on street entertainers. I'll never forget the first day I walked the chaotic streets, as a stranger to the city. The first street entertainer that I noticed was an older, frail man producing music from an antique, beat up accordion. I was intrigued by both the music and the man. When I continued on, I noticed another man, slowly and desperately playing a violin. Since I had already been observing these entertainers, I knew it was going to be beneficial to continue my observation into a blog.

The last blog I chose to focus on was piazza's. Although my place first started as Campo de'Fiori, I continued to expand my knowledge of piazza's by visiting Campo's neighbor, Piazza Navona. The different settings that take place during the day at Campo de'fiori has probably been the most interesting aspect to witness. Beyond the changes, I have been educated about the history of the markets, square and the center statue of Giordano Bruno. I really enjoyed visiting each piazza daily to observe my surroundings and the variation of both. These assignments have encouraged me to step outside of my element and allowed me to immerse myself into the Italian culture and the city of Rome.