PARKS AND PARROTS

The major sites of Rome are almost always packed with throngs of rather hot, tired and grumpy looking tourists numbly trailing along behind their guide.  So as to not lose any of the herd, the leader often carries something highly visible high on a stick such as plastic flowers, bright ribbons or my personal favorite, a rubber chicken.  I'm certain that after returning home the weary travelers impress their friends with stories and selfies in front of things that they have long ago forgotten the names of.  Places like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon do merit a visit.  But also worthy of being experienced and usually not too far from these epicenters of activity is a quiet park or garden politely waiting.

This morning after enjoying almost an hour as the only person in the Basilica of Saints Giovanni e Paolo, I wandered through the nearby gate of the Villa Celimontana Garden on the slopes of Rome's Caelian Hill.  There were a few parents walking a child to school.  Others were giving their dogs an opportunity to sniff other dogs.  Remnants of a Roman aquaduct added an impressive backdrop and an Egyptian obelisk from Heliopolis provided a focal point. Sounds of distant fountains echoed through iconic umbrella pines and palm trees.  The only thing disrupting the peacefulness of the morning was the squawking of birds.  On closer inspection I realized that the park was full of parrots!  What a surprise that was to me.  I knew that Rome was flooded with tourists.  But I had no idea that it is also flocked with parrots! 

Basilica of Saints Giovanni and Paolo in the Morning Light

Going to School through Arches of SS. Giovanni e Paolo

Villa Celimontana Gardens on Rome's Caelian Hill

Umbrella Pines, Junipers and Palms in the Villa Celimontana

One of the Many Permanent Residents of Villa Celimontana Park