Strolling around Ponte Milvio

If you wish to leave the classical tourist paths and have a taste of the roman daily life, you can't miss Ponte Milvio. This is the oldest bridge in Rome, built before 207 b.C. to extend the Via Flaminia beyond the river Tevere. 

Ask the taxi driver to drop you in Piazzale Cardinal Consalvi so that you can reach the area by peacefully walking through Ponte Mollo, being it forbidden to vehicles since 1951.

Locals call it "Il ponte dell'amore" as it is one of lovers' favorite places. In fact, during the last decade, the youngsters, who have sealed their feelings by locking a padlocker at its lamp-posts, have been so numerous, that
in 2007 several street-lamps collapsed under their weight! 

Actually, the whole area around Piazzale di Ponte Milvio has become an attractive meeting point, thanks to its variety of restaurants and wine-bars, offering during the daytime cues of local life.

I always spend some time at "Niki Nika", in Via Riano. This recently opened boutique carries very trendy clothes and accessories as well as fancy bijoux. It has quickly become a must in the area, just as " Lemlo' ", in Via della Farnesina, that displays the most important Italian brands of pret-a'-porter, besides lovely shoes and bags by famous designers. My last purchase, a pair of Stuart Weitzman stilettos, has had innumerable fans among my friends. 

Last time we met, we discovered that all of us possess at least one piece of furniture bought at "La Maison Retrouvée", in Via Flaminia. From cutlery to an entire kitchen, not to mention lamps, mirrors, carpets, materials...everything in here expresses glamour, and if you need some advice, just ask for Frederic, the owner: his taste is unbeatable!

For the joy of kids, and not only theirs, moms buy fresh "focaccine", a sort of flat salted loaves, and pizzette at "Gianfornaio", a very popular bakery facing the main square. They're absolutely delicious but, if you prefer sweets, head yourself to "Mondi", one of the best pastries in town, and have one of its fantastic ice-creams while sitting in the outside veranda, a perfect place for people watching.

And last but not least: every first and second Sunday, an antique market takes place right above the river-banks. A splendid chance for a nice and curious walk, especially in springtime!