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
Since 2016, two elegant ligustrini have stood as loyal sentinels on the terrace of QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast, welcoming guests into our green retreat in the heart of Rome. These versatile shrubs, known for their adaptability and resilience, have been carefully shaped over the years into perfect spheres, adding a touch of harmony and balance to our rooftop patio.
Their round form wasn’t achieved overnight; it has been a labor of love, patience, and pruning—a small but meaningful example of how we strive to create a unique and welcoming space for our guests.
Ligustrini: The Perfect Plant for Topiary Art
The ligustrum (commonly known as privet) is a favorite among gardeners for its dense foliage, fast growth, and adaptability to shaping. Its Latin name derives from its ability to “bind” hedgerows together, and historically it was used for fencing and ornamental purposes in ancient Roman gardens. Over centuries, it has become synonymous with topiary art, the horticultural practice of pruning and training plants into artistic shapes.
Why Ligustrini Are Ideal for Topiary:
- Fast Growth: Ligustrini grow quickly, allowing for frequent shaping and adjustments.
- Dense Foliage: Their thick, lush leaves ensure that sculpted shapes look full and vibrant.
- Resilience: They adapt well to urban environments and varying climates, making them perfect for terraces like ours.
- Symbolism: In many cultures, rounded shapes in topiary symbolize unity, harmony, and continuity—qualities that align with the peaceful atmosphere we aim to create at QuodLibet.
Our two ligustrini are an ode to the timeless art of topiary. While they may not rival the grand hedges of ancient Roman villas, their simple elegance adds character and charm to our terrace.
The Art of Shaping Plants
The art of topiary dates back to the Roman Empire, when wealthy landowners shaped their gardens to reflect order and control over nature. This practice continued into the Renaissance and beyond, with elaborate designs adorning European estates.
For small urban gardens, such as the terrace at QuodLibet, maintaining spherical ligustrini offers a manageable way to bring this ancient art form into a contemporary setting. Shaping these plants requires:
- Regular Pruning: A steady hand and a good pair of shears are essential to maintain the rounded shape.
- Patience: It takes time to coax a young ligustrum into a perfectly symmetrical form.
- Consistency: Seasonal trims ensure the plant maintains its shape while staying healthy.
At QuodLibet, pruning our ligustrini has become a symbolic ritual—a reminder of how small, thoughtful touches can create an inviting and serene space for our guests.
The Terrace: A Unique Feature Among Rome’s Bed and Breakfasts
Rome is a city of grandiose monuments and charming alleyways, but open-air spaces, especially in the Prati neighborhood, are a rare find. Our terrace, perched just 20 steps above our rooms, offers a tranquil haven where guests can enjoy breakfast, relax with a book, or simply take in the city’s beauty.
Surrounded by plane trees and open views of the nearby Carabinieri Academy, the terrace is a blend of greenery and Roman urban charm. Unlike many other bed and breakfasts in Rome, we’ve made this space a true extension of our hospitality:
- Thoughtful Planting: From our carefully shaped ligustrini to roses, basil, and rosemary, every plant contributes to the terrace’s welcoming atmosphere.
- Seasonal Beauty: Whether in spring’s bloom, summer’s vibrance, or autumn’s golden hues, the terrace evolves with the seasons.
- A Quiet Retreat: While Rome’s streets buzz with life, our terrace provides a peaceful escape—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
The Ligustrini as Symbols of Care
Our ligustrini are more than just decorative elements; they symbolize the care and attention we bring to every aspect of our guests’ experience. Their rounded shapes reflect our belief in balance and harmony, qualities we strive to offer in both our hospitality and the design of our spaces.
If you’re staying at QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast, we invite you to spend a moment on the terrace, enjoying the greenery, the fresh air, and the unique perspective of Rome it provides. And perhaps,
