Rome, a city-museum in the grip of modernism

Italian capital with eternal beauty, Rome seems frozen in time thanks to its ancient architecture. Its historic sites and monuments such as the Coliseum and the Vatican are part of an unchanging landscape that runs through the ages. But today, the beautiful Rome today aims at becoming a European capital whose prestigious architecture is not only based on his past. In recent years, Rome has adapted its image to the modern world while preserving its historical heritage. Nowadays, its gives way to new forms that coexist harmoniously with the vestige of antiquity.
To celebrate this new year 2016, follow us in the Rome today…

Rome preserves its architectural heritage while adapting it to today’s environment

In the heart of historic Rome, near the Spanish Steps, the Altar of Peace (Ara Pacis), is a temple constructed in 13 BC. AD near the Tiber by the first Emperor Augustus. Witness of the ancient Rome, it was redesigned by the american architect Richard Meier who built around a masterpiece of contemporary work made with windows and sustainable materials, protecting the temple from sunlight and pollution.

Another monument of Richard Meier showing the Roman revival is the Church Dives in Misericordia (Jubilee Church) in the Tor Tre Teste neighborhood, and who is characterized by three large white arcs, symbolizing the sails of a boat pointing the way to the third millennium.

Close to the historic center, near the hill of the former Olympic village, the Auditorium Music and its Park bring a futuristic touch to the surrounding archaeological landscape. Built by the architect Renzo Piano on the remains of an ancient patrician villa dating from the 6th century BC, with some traditional Roman materials, the auditorium reflects the harmony between two eras.

The new museums and contemporary art galleries in Rome

The Italian capital has also relied on two new cases for its artistic heritage: In the North of Rome, the Maxxi, National Art Museum of the XXI century, designed by the Anglo-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid, is a superb example of the deconstructivist style and contains original modern art collections.

Not far from the Villa Borghese, the Macro, Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome, created by the French architect Odile Decq, is for its part a model of creativity with colors games, fluidity and purified spaces.

The metamorphosis of Rome neighborhoods

If the city of Rome invites us to taste the quintessence of the Dolce Vità, it’s thanks to its magical places imbued with old spendor: small hidden squares, eternal fountains, traditional cafes, pastel-colored buildings, family restaurants… But the old neighborhoods (such as Testaccio and Ostiense) began to wane; so they have been recently modernized: many artists have transformed the sad industrial buildings into cosy lofts; the outmoded pizzerias and trattorias were replaced by designs restaurants (as All’Oro near People’s Square); and the old cafes turned in trendy bars (such as Palatium wine bar or Mozzarella bar Obicà near the Trevi Fountain) hosting live music or varied exhibitions.
Many areas of Rome have also created common spaces dedicated to artistic expression (dance studios, theater, photography…) and encouraged creativity (designer shops and artist’ collectives such as Spazio Sette near the Campo dei Fiori).

Successful spacio-temporal fusion for hotels and restaurants in Rome

The architect Richard Meier modernized the famous Hotel Raphael near Piazza Navona by creating new luxury rooms with contemporary and colorful design.
Near the Spanish Steps, another hotel was offered a new youth: the Art Hotel redesigned by architects Raniero Botti and Gianfranco Mangiarotti in a subtle blend of ancient and modern style.
It should also be noted the futuristic luxury of the new ES Hotel in the beautiful Esquilino district, designed by architect King Roselli, which reminds the current science fiction series.
Many other hotels have focused on their terraces (comfort, drinks and food menu, events…) that offer breathtaking views of the beautiful city of Rome.