Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Visitors should not overlook beautiful river views from Rome's Isola Tiberina

Views of Rome and the Tiber River are unparalleled from Isola Tiberina, one of two islands in the river.

Between visits to it renowned historical sites, art museums and shopping venues, travelers on a European vacation should not overlook forays into Rome's picturesque neighborhoods.

One such destination is Rome's Isola Tiberina (Tiber Island), which is one of the two islands located in the Tiber River and has been connected to the city by two bridges - Ponte Cestio and Ponte Fabricio - since ancient times. The Ponte Fabricio is the oldest bridge crossing the Tiber that is still in use.

St. Bartolomeo Square, where a 10th century church contains Rome's oldest working bell and beautiful artwork, is the heart of Isola Tiberina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Entry to the island is free and open daily to visitors. The summertime Isola del Cinema film festival takes place on the island, which has often been used as a scenic backdrop in Italian films.

According to VirtualTourist.com, Isola Tiberina has a unique history related to medicine and healing. It once housed the ancient Temple of Aesculapius named for the Greek god of medicine. In Roman times, people with illnesses of the body and spirit went there because they believed the island had powers of healing. Today, one of Rome's best hospitals, Ospedale Fatebenefratelli, is located on the site.

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