Rome

A weary French priest finally steps off a delayed train into the bright morning light of Rome, his only possession a small suitcase. As a carriage rattles through the city’s ancient streets, he watches the bustling traffic of modern life swirl around timeless monuments—the towering Trajan’s Column, the gleaming façade of the National Bank, and the leafy gardens of the Aldobrandini villa. Each landmark sparks his curiosity, prompting him to compare the printed maps he has studied with the living, uneven terrain of the capital’s hills and piazzas.

Through his fresh eyes, the city becomes a living lecture on history, art, and faith, while the local coachman’s playful commentary adds a touch of humor to the priest’s reverent awe. As he settles into his new residence on Via Giulia, he begins to sense that Rome’s layered past and vibrant present will challenge his expectations in ways he has yet to imagine. The narrative follows his tentative steps into this intricate tapestry, setting the stage for encounters that will test both his convictions and his heart.