Wandering through Trastevere

After visiting the Orto Botanico just outside the city gates, John and I went for a wander through the narrow streets of Trastevere.

The main street, Via della Scala is lined with picturesque details.

The exterior facade of the 17th century church, Santa Maria della Scala is plain but the interiors are rich in Baroque details.

The marble, gilt, chandeliers and colours are quite overwhelming.

Back on the street we sat down next to these American girls to have a late morning drink and rest at a little bar.

All roads in Trastevere seem to lead to the Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere with its popular seating around Carlo Fontana's Baroque fountain (1692) and, of course, the beautiful, ancient church in the background.

Continuing our stroll down Via della Lungaretta, John was caught by the beautiful, packaging designs for Sicilian toiletries at the Ortigia shop.

We hoped to return to buy some of their products for my mother but it just didn't fit into our schedule. Remember -- if you see something cool in some little shop that would make a great gift for someone, buy it on the spot!

Finally returning to the Tiber, we crossed the Ponte Cestio and Isola Tiberina leaving lovely, colourful Trastevere behind.