THE COLORS OF ROME

Rome is a city of pastel colors, mellowed by the ages.

The original brilliant white marble of the ancient Roman ruins is mostly weathered now.

Except for the monument to Vittorio Emmanuele II that shocks the eye with its dead white mass. So out of character with the rest of the city. It’s often know as the wedding cake or typewriter.

Ancient wood has weathered to gray and the original brick is exposed.

The bronze doors of the Roman Curia (Senate) in the Forum have turned to verdigris green as have statues and the original doors now at the Basilica San Giovanni.

The old Roman brick retains warmth from millennia of sun.

The stucco facades of burnt sienna and terra rossa radiate warmth.

My favorite color is red. The Roman designer, Valentino, has his own flaming red signature color. The luscious color signifies the allure of fashion and temptation. And of course, we can’t forget Ferrari Red. Pompeiian Red – that rich color so beloved by the ancient Romans to express the richness of life. It was made of cinnabar which contained mercury; now it is made from iron oxide. Infrequently seen on buildings, the ancient Romans loved it on frescoes.

The sky is a brilliant blue and the umbrella pines are a deep and dark green.

Vegetables are always bright and tasty.

Some of the small colors flaunt their colors too.

Medieval floors of marble and glass glitter in the shifting light.

And above all, the vivid Italian flag of red, white and green flutters.