Roma day 4, the VatiCan'T

Last night I bought a last minute ticket to go see the Vatican this morning. The bicycle ride there is the exact same amount of time as an Uber would be, so I'm off on bike! Even though it's a warmer day and I'm forced to wear jeans and a T-shirt because apparently showing shoulders or knees is sinful or disrespectful.
The bike ride there is so much fun. It's halfway UPHILL which sucks at first but I'm in good spirits and it's not too warm yet. Once I reach the top of the hill, it's winding downhill streets with a view of the city and I am so happy. Then I hit the hot mess that is St. Peters square and theres masses of people that *could* or *could not be* in a line. I eventually find my location where I'm supposed to show my emailed confirmation thru "Just booked" in exchange for a ticket in.
It's a disaster. I am right *on time* when the ticket does request me to be at least 15 minutes early. Apparently, I come to find out that is because the website overbooks and then admits people by a first come first serve basis. I did not first come soooo, they refunded my ticket and suggested I find a local to get me in. 🫠😅
I'm too hungry for that so I go to sit down at a nearby cafe and have my first panini, a meatball panini with fresh basil leaves and oozing out mozzarella! With a Hugo... my now, signature cocktail for Rome. It's Gin, prosecco, elderflower syrup, mint and soda water. It's so light and refreshing and reminds me of a mojito but not quite.
This begins my Vatican't day of being fully dressed for the house of God that's just me sweating in Roman streets. I had a great day though, I drank and I shopped. I didn't just shop though, I made friends with every shop attendant I came across. I asked all about them and what it was like working there, we exchanged English words for Italian words and I would thank them for their unique presence as a vintage shop, a metaphysical shop or artisan shop. I had a hoot.
But all that day drinking and walking was leading to a crash and I was too far into the city. I had been wanting to catch a movie here so... this was my window! I found a showing of Madame DuBarry (featuring Johnny Depp). It was still in Italian but I figured, why not! That's basically how I'm navigating life rn. And I'm so glad I did! I'm sure I missed a couple jokes or small comments because of the language "barrier" but the movie was fantastic! I almost cried at one point. Maybe that just speaks to how good the film was though 🤷❤️
On my slow walk back home at sunset time, I happened into Castle D'Angelo, a sight I had wanted to see at some point so this seemed perfect and I got into line for a ticket. Another excellent impromptu choice. Even though the clouds rolled in and blocked my chance of an amazing sunset view, it was such a great experience to walk the halls of a true castle! I could feel the history of the place and swooned. There were truly wonderful Frescos that filled half and lovely rod iron details everywhere. Also, the view at the top wasn't anything less than spectacular and I made sure to sit and enjoy it awhile.
I went to Mr Cloods in Trastevere for dinner, a suggestion from a friend. On the way there passed by live music after live music. Is tucked down a tiny scary dark alleyway but definitely did not disappoint. I ordered lasagna with wine and a side of charred raddaccio and it was probably the best Roman meal I've had so far.Read more