Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
At QuodLibet, our bed and breakfast in the heart of Rome, the name holds a special significance. In Latin, quodlibet is derived from quod (“what”) and libet (“it pleases”), meaning “whatever pleases you.” A fitting sentiment for travelers who come to explore and find what resonates with them in this ancient city.
However, quodlibet also has a fascinating history in the realm of music. It’s a genre of composition where different melodies, often from distinct origins, are intertwined to create a harmonious whole. Johann Sebastian Bach famously composed a quodlibet in his Goldberg Variations, blending folk tunes and lively rhythms into a complex, yet playful, piece of music. Similarly, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart experimented with quodlibets, layering various themes and tunes into his works, producing something both eclectic and unified.
This idea of diverse elements coming together mirrors the essence of travel, and especially of Rome itself.
Rome, the eternal city, is a testament to centuries of cultural exchange, historical layers, and human encounters. As travelers, we embark on journeys not just to see new places, but to open ourselves to what each destination has to offer—to the people, the history, the stories, and the surprises. In each corner, we find what delights us, sparks our curiosity, and makes us feel connected.
At QuodLibet, we aim to reflect this spirit of curiosity and openness. As cultural anthropologists, we believe that travel is about embracing the unfamiliar and finding joy in the unexpected. Whether it’s the ruins of ancient Rome, the bustling energy of modern life, or the charm of a quiet piazza, Rome offers a world of contrasts, and there’s something for everyone.
The choice of a Latin name for our bed and breakfast was no coincidence. As the birthplace of Latin, Rome is a city deeply rooted in its linguistic and cultural heritage. The word quodlibet evokes the idea of exploring freely and finding joy in whatever comes your way. It reflects both the timeless charm of the city and the personal experience of each traveler.
Rome is a city of endless discoveries, and at QuodLibet, we invite you to discover whatever it is that pleases you most—just as the name suggests.
