A Quiet Final Morning in Rome & The Journey Home

There is something deeply special about a city before it fully wakes up. On our final morning in Rome, after finishing the last of our packing, we stepped out into the crisp morning air for one last walk.

Our steps took us first to Isola Tiberina, the quiet island sitting peacefully in the middle of the Tiber River. To cross over, we walked across the Ponte Fabricio—built in 62 BC, it is the oldest original bridge in Rome still standing in its original position.

In ancient times, Romans carved the island itself to look like a stone battleship, complete with an obelisk for a mast and a carved bow.

For thousands of years, it has been dedicated to healing; today, the Fatebenefratelli Hospital stands where the ancient Temple of Aesculapius (the god of medicine) once welcomed sick pilgrims.

Did You Know? During World War II, doctors at the island’s Fatebenefratelli Hospital saved dozens of Roman Jews by diagnosing them with a fake, highly contagious condition called “Syndrome K”—scaring occupying troops away from inspecting the wards!

Crossing to the other side brought us into Trastevere. Known for its vibrant night scene, bohemian atmosphere, and narrow cobblestone alleys, Trastevere in the early morning is a completely different world. Wandering through the sleeping streets with almost no one around felt like having a secret, ancient version of Rome entirely to ourselves.

Breakfast on the Piazza

After about half an hour of strolling, we emerged into Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere and found Ristorante Galeassi. Operating on this historic square since 1907, it sits right beside the magnificent 3rd-century Basilica.

They had a lovely breakfast menu, so we took a seat outdoors directly in front of the Fontana di Piazza Santa Maria.

Believed to be the oldest working fountain in Rome, its roots trace back to Augustan times, though its iconic double shells were sculpted centuries later by the famous master Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Enjoying a warm, flaky croissant and a cup of tea while listening to the gentle splash of the fountain in the morning light was the ultimate, tranquil send-off.

The Homebound Journey

After breakfast, we took a short walk back to our apartment to grab our luggage and check out. An easy Uber ride whisked us straight to Fiumicino Airport, giving us plenty of time to relax before boarding. Sitting at the gate just before our flight was called, I took a quiet moment to send a message to both of my sons, sharing what a truly wonderful time we’d had in Sorrento at my eldest son’s wedding.

Back on British Soil

The flight home was smooth, and from stepping off the plane to reaching our car in the car park took a lightning-fast 15 minutes! Before long, we were back on familiar roads—navigating the usual busy flow on the M25 and M1. We made a quick pitstop at Donington services for a few essential groceries before pulling into my driveway just after 9:00pm

It was a seamless end to an unforgettable trip—there’s truly nothing quite like returning home with a full heart and lasting memories.

*** Sant’Egidio’s Mission

Established in Rome in 1968, the Community of Sant’Egidio focuses on charity, peace, and supporting marginalised populations. Placing this artwork at their main headquarters honours 50 years of service, highlighting the belief that caring for the vulnerable is a direct encounter with the sacred.