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
Just a 20-minute walk or 4 minutes by metro from Quodlibet B&B, Piazza del Popolo serves as the grand entrance to Rome’s iconic Tridente. Entering through Porta Flaminia, you’re greeted by the neoclassical design of Giuseppe Valadier, commissioned by Pope Sixtus V in the 16th century. Valadier’s vision transformed the square into a harmonious centrepiece, featuring the ancient obelisk of Ramesses II and the twin churches, Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, which anchor the three famous streets.
The Tridente consists of three roads that spread out like a fan: Via del Corso, Via del Babuino, and Via di Ripetta. Each street leads to key Roman landmarks, offering visitors a rich blend of history and modern-day attractions.
Via del Corso is the central artery of the Tridente and one of Rome’s most important streets. It runs straight to Piazza Venezia, near the Capitoline Hill, a symbol of Rome’s mythological founding. The Capitoline was home to the ancient Temple of Jupiter, where the gods of Rome were worshiped, making this path not only historically significant but also symbolic of the city’s power.
Via del Babuino connects Piazza del Popolo with Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps. Named after an old statue of a reclining figure that Romans affectionately called “Il Babuino” (the Baboon), this street is lined with luxury boutiques, making it a popular destination for high-end shopping.
Via di Ripetta leads toward the Tiber River and offers a more tranquil experience, historically serving as a path to the Porto di Ripetta, once an important harbour for goods coming into the city. Today, it is known for its charming mix of galleries, cafes, and quieter streets.
From Piazza del Popolo, you can easily explore Rome’s major attractions, whether you’re heading toward the Quirinale, climbing to Villa Borghese, or descending to the Trevi Fountain. Along the way, take in the unique atmosphere of Via del Tritone and indulge in some shopping at La Rinascente.
With its perfect blend of architectural grandeur and urban accessibility, the Tridente exemplifies Rome’s timeless elegance. Whether you’re seeking historical insights or just enjoying a pleasant walk, Piazza del Popolo and its surrounding streets offer something for every traveller.
