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
Muriel Spark, the celebrated British author of “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie”, found a deep and lasting connection with Rome during her life. Spark, known for her wit, elegance, and unique literary voice, not only set some of her works in the Eternal City but also made it her home for nearly 30 years. Her relationship with Rome, particularly with Piazza Navona and Via dei Coronari, left an indelible mark on her writing and personal life.
Muriel Spark’s Move to Rome
Muriel Spark moved to Rome in the early 1960s, seeking inspiration and solace. Enamored with the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and artistic energy, she quickly became part of its expat literary community. Spark lived in several locations around the city, but her favorite haunts were in the historic center, particularly Piazza Navona and Via dei Coronari.
Piazza Navona: A Source of Inspiration
Piazza Navona, with its Baroque fountains and lively atmosphere, captivated Spark. This iconic Roman square, a stage for both grandeur and daily life, inspired her observations of human behavior and interactions. She often described Piazza Navona as a microcosm of Roman life, where history, art, and modernity coexist seamlessly.
One of Spark’s lesser-known novels, “The Takeover”, captures the intrigue and eccentricities of expatriate life in Italy, subtly reflecting her own experiences. While not explicitly set in Piazza Navona, the square’s vibrant and theatrical energy echoes throughout her Roman works.
Via dei Coronari: A Writer’s Retreat
Spark often walked along Via dei Coronari, a historic street near Piazza Navona renowned for its antique shops and timeless charm. The narrow cobblestone lane, once part of the pilgrimage route to St. Peter’s Basilica, exudes an old-world atmosphere that resonated deeply with Spark. It’s easy to imagine her finding inspiration here, surrounded by whispers of history and the quiet rhythm of Roman life.
Via dei Coronari’s proximity to Piazza Navona also made it a convenient retreat, allowing Spark to balance the bustling energy of the square with the tranquil charm of this storied street.
Rome as a Muse for Muriel Spark
Spark’s Roman years were among her most productive. The Eternal City provided a backdrop that matched her sharp, insightful writing style—a place where contradictions, beauty, and chaos coalesce into something timeless. She once described her time in Rome as “an education in itself,” reflecting the city’s profound influence on her creativity.
Discover Spark’s Rome Today
For literary enthusiasts and travelers, retracing Muriel Spark’s footsteps offers a unique way to experience Rome. Start at Piazza Navona, marveling at Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, and stroll along Via dei Coronari, soaking in the atmosphere that inspired one of the 20th century’s greatest writers.
Staying at QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast puts you in the perfect position to explore Spark’s Rome. Located in the heart of Prati, QuodLibet offers easy access to the historic center while providing a peaceful retreat after a day of literary and cultural discovery.
