Have you ever wondered what Romans do in their spare time? Well,
they walk. In Italian, it is called La Passegiata. The ritual of taking a slow
(read very slow) walk in the city or town center. You can easily spot the Italians
as they dress up for this ritual whereas the tourists wear running shoes, long shorts, back
packs and hang things like water bottles and other clip on items off their
belts. I wonder why tourists do this. Seriously, would you dress like this in
your own city?
La Passegiata is a ritual in small towns too where locals
gather in the village square and have a good gossip. Yesterday, Rob and I went
to the Santa Maria Di Trastevere square and we sat and lingered over a wine.
New romances were on display along with a stunning array of fashion. People
kissed cheeks and laughed. Children danced to the accordion players. The church
bells announced the time through the sunset and as darkness fell, La Passegiata
slowly faded away.
Romans are a gracious and attractive people who have managed
to hang onto traditions despite the onslaught of tourism and technology. I am
happy to say La Passegiata is alive and well. Long may it stay that way.
La Passegiata at Trevi Fountain
The Spanish Steps
Sea of people - spot the tourist
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