The Piazza

The air in this ancient city, would be crisp cold if it weren't for the rays of sunlight streaming down from the heavens, bringing the temperature up to a very pleasant level. It is the end of winter and there is already a touch of spring in the air. The piazza is full of people rushing to and fro, busy with their daily activities. Along the roadside there are many colorful, outdoor cafe's. The wonderful aroma of Italian cuisine drifts onto the street, tempting passerby's to stop what they are doing and simply enjoy the fragrance. Pizza margherita, lasagna, ravioli, tiramisu, gelati, and over 650 different types of pasta....all just waiting to be tasted. Ahh...heaven on earth?

The piazza is surrounded by all sorts of shops and old historical buildings. In the centre of the square is a fountain. Crystal clear water surrounds the rider, who is seated firmly on his horse in the middle of the fountain. As i turn to my right, a particular building catches my eye. The architecture is simply breathtaking. Up a flight of slightly discolored stairs are two huge pillars supporting a statue of a man holding a staff, resting on his stone chair. Above him are three windows, each one with a flag that has three vertical stripes: green, white and red. Further up, a chariot pulled by four black horses appears as if it might fly off the top of the beige stone building at any moment.

Italy is a place i am passionate about. Three days in Italy can have a significant impact on one’s life and that is exactly what happened to me. Rather peculiar how life leads you down certain paths. To think i was in the middle of my semester in college and was supposed to be going to France, not Italy; and the next thing i know, i’ve been to Rome, spent a day down at the bay of Naples and had such an awesome time, that i would trade my time there for absolutely nothing. It is rather hard to describe the precise feeling, but when placed in a city that is overflowing with history, one is overcome by a strong feeling of awe and admiration.

Some other time perhaps, i will elaborate on the details of my splendid trip. For now, i will continue dreaming of the day when i shall go back to this place with mouth watering food, green meadows, fresh air; old, historical buildings and structures, and really friendly people with an equally beautiful language. Till then...arrivederci!