I'm taking my 14-year-old grandson to Rome next May for five days. He's studying Latin and ancient Roman history, so our focus will be on the ancient, as opposed to medieval, Renaissance or baroque sights.
One of the convents in the area between Termini and the Forum might suit our lodging needs. Anyone have any recommendations?
Thanks.
I've stayed at two convents/monasteries in the areas you mentioned. The following convent is one-half block from SM Maggiore and about four blocks from Termini. It's unlikely that you'll find anyone who speaks English, but with a little creativity I've never had trouble communicating.
Suore di Santa Elisabetta
Via dell'Olmata, 9, 00184 Roma, Italy
+39 06 488 8271
The Camaldolese Benedictine monastery of San Gregorio Magno is about two blocks from the coliseum and across a very busy street from the Circus Maximus. It's a community of men, and consequently is a little less warm and fuzzy than a convent. When I was there, no one spoke English. But they elected an English-speaking prior in the last couple of years, so language may be a little easier now.
Both of the above are wonderful historical buildings. You can check out reviews on trip advisor.
Also the website monasterystays.com lists many convents and monasteries, and they'll book them for you. The cost is a little higher than if you do it yourself.
Finally, the website of the American Catholic parish in Rome, Santa Susanna, lists convents and monasteries that accept guests.
Thank you, Sherry! That's exactly the kind of information I was looking for. Language should not be a problem; I speak enough Italian to get by.
Pay attention to the 11:00 p.m. curfew at S S Elisabetta. It's one that I happened to miss when dining late on the other side of the city.
There are a couple of other threads current on the Forum that discuss this general topic, if you haven't already checked these out, you might want to.
We've made our reservation for the end of May at Casa Il Rosario. The location looks excellent, just northeast of Trajan's Market. It should be a good base for exploring ancient Rome with my grandson. We'll post a report when we get back.
Are you familiar with the Domus Romane? It sounds like it would be right up your grandson's alley. And be sure to go to the National Museum in Palazzo Massimo. Amazing Roman empire pieces.
(And kudos to you for doing this for your grandson.)
I took my pilot grandson on a "Grand Tour" of Europe when he was 16. It was wonderful month-long trip. He is now totally hooked on traveling, especially in Europe. He is the one I sent PM to you about. I am taking his sister, 18, this summer. Unfortunately, we have to go in July. I know it will be HOT in Rome and Sorrento - possibly all over the continent.
Barb
