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
The plane tree (Platanus acerifolia) is one of the most recognizable trees in Rome, lining many of the city’s grand boulevards and creating beautiful shaded avenues. With their distinctive bark, broad leaves, and expansive canopies, these trees are not only picturesque but also serve important environmental functions in an urban setting.
A Brief History of Rome’s Plane Trees
The story of Rome’s plane trees began in the late 19th century, around the time of the city’s major urban expansion. As Rome grew and modernized after the unification of Italy in 1870, planners saw the need to beautify and provide shade along the city’s new roads. Plane trees, known for their resilience and rapid growth, were chosen to line these wide boulevards. With their origins rooted in the Mediterranean, plane trees thrived in Rome’s climate and soon became a characteristic feature of the city’s streetscape.
Historically, plane trees have also had cultural significance in Italy, as they were often planted in public spaces and villas to symbolize protection and shade. Their introduction to Rome was influenced by similar projects in Paris, where plane trees had already been used to line the streets as part of Haussmann’s urban reforms. By the early 20th century, Rome had adopted this approach, and plane trees became a common sight along the city’s new streets and avenues.
Environmental and Aesthetic Benefits
The plane tree’s rapid growth and dense foliage make it ideal for urban spaces. They provide shade in the hot Roman summers, helping to cool the streets and create a more comfortable environment for pedestrians. These trees are also known for their ability to absorb pollutants, filtering the city air and making them a valuable asset for reducing urban pollution.
Plane trees can reach heights of 30 meters or more and are extremely hardy, with a lifespan that can span several centuries under the right conditions. Their large leaves are efficient at capturing dust, pollen, and other pollutants, and their roots help to stabilize the soil, preventing erosion along busy streets.
Where to Find Plane Trees in Rome
Rome has thousands of plane trees, with large concentrations along major streets and avenues. They line the Lungotevere, the tree-lined boulevard that runs along the banks of the Tiber River, creating a scenic and shaded route through the city. Other notable areas include Viale delle Belle Arti near Villa Borghese, Viale Aventino, and parts of the Prati district.
In Prati, where QuodLibet B&B is located, plane trees give character to Via Barletta, which stretches out in a leafy path that continues into Viale Angelico. Following this route takes you toward the Foro Italico, home to Rome’s Stadio Olimpico and the Stadio del Tennis, providing a pleasant walk or cycle through some of Rome’s most iconic sporting areas.
Interesting Facts and Legacy
- Symbol of Resilience: Plane trees are known for their resilience against pests and urban stressors, and many of Rome’s plane trees have survived for more than a century.
- Historical Connections: In antiquity, plane trees were already admired by the Romans. Ancient texts suggest that notable figures like Pliny the Elder and Cicero appreciated their shade and beauty.
- Unique Bark Pattern: The distinctive, patterned bark of the plane tree peels away in patches, revealing smooth, pale layers beneath. This natural process helps the tree resist pollution, as the bark sheds accumulated dust and grime.
- Threats and Conservation: In recent years, diseases like plane tree wilt (caused by the Ceratocystis platani fungus) have threatened these iconic trees. Conservation efforts are now focused on preserving and protecting Rome’s plane trees, ensuring that future generations can enjoy their shade.
Rome’s Living Heritage
For visitors to QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast, a stroll along Via Barletta and Viale Angelico offers a chance to enjoy these iconic trees and connect with Rome’s modern and historical landscapes. The plane trees lining these streets represent more than shade and beauty; they are a reminder of Rome’s adaptability, resilience, and commitment to preserving its natural heritage alongside its architectural wonders.
