A Walk Through Rome’s Living Culture

When in Rome, do what the Romans do.
A Walk Through Rome’s Living Culture
An early-evening walk in Rome offers culture that you can't find in museums. Dominic Arizona Bonuccelli
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Throughout Italy, early evening is time to stroll. As I walk through the streets of the Eternal City with my Roman friends, they explain the ritual of this promenade: While elsewhere in Italy it’s called the passeggiata, in Rome it’s a cruder, big-city version called the struscio (which means “rub”).

Unemployment among Italy’s youth is very high; many live with their parents even into their 30s. They spend a lot of time being trendy and hanging out. Hard-core cruisers from the Roman suburbs, which lack pleasant public spaces, congregate on the downtown boulevard Via del Corso. The Vespa motor scooter is their symbol; haircuts and fashion are follow-the-leader.

Rick Steves
Rick Steves
Author
Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European guidebooks, hosts travel shows on public TV and radio, and organizes European tours. This article was adapted from his new book, For the Love of Europe. You can email Rick at [email protected] and follow his blog on Facebook. ©2022 Rick Steves. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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