First on the list today was the Keats Shelley Memorial House museum, right beside the Spanish Steps. John Keats died in 1821 from tuberculosis, aged 25 yeras, and Percy Bysse Shelley drowned in 1823, aged 29 years, but it wasn't until 1905 that the move was made to create a museum in the home where Keats died.
Keats, Shelley and Lord Byron (died 1824 in Greece, from a fever) are considered Romantics from a period which came immediately after the Enlightenment. Many British writers, poets and artists moved to Italy for the freedom it allowed them, to be with like-minded people, and in Keats case, for health.
The museum was well worth the visit as it holds a valuable collection of books, manuscripts and memorabilia from the three mentioned poets and many of their friends and peers.
"A thing of beauty is a joy forever" - John Keats 1818.
The views from the windows that were Keats only enjoyment in his last months.
When you are in Rome you spend a lot of time looking up!
The facade of Hadrian's Temple has been preserved and is an imposing sight in the piazza in which it stands.
Colour is so special in Rome. It never ceases to impress and excite us.
This delicious foccacia with tomato and fresh buffalo mozzarella was my lunch.
Next stop was to the Trevi Fountain. We never miss visiting the Trevi Fountain to throw in our coins. May it guarantee our return!
Last thing was a visit to our favourite Basilica, Santa Maria Maggiore. Then it was home to enjoy some time on our terrace. The air is clear today and we can see into the countyside and the distant hills.
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