Rimini
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Day 129: Rimini presents a crisp 16.53°C (feels like a bracing 15.47°C to my gnome toes). The sky, clear as my grumpy mood, and the wind speed of 4.92 m/s, enough to whip my beard into a frizzy frenzy. Humidity at a comfortable 47% – low enough to keep my pointy hat from wilting. Overall, a perfect day for a gnome-about-town, if you don’t mind a dash of “wind-blown chic” look!
Gnome in Rome: Bridge Binge!
While on this journey, an interesting observation caught my eye. It was the remarkable transition from the modern, bustling Riccione to the more ancient, serene vibes of Rimini. It was as if I was strolling through a living timeline, witnessing the old and new worlds merging seamlessly together.
At one point, I found myself on the Bridge of Tiberius, a masterpiece of Roman engineering. As I cast my gaze upon the flowing water beneath, a local verse came to mind, “Il fiume scorre, ma l’acqua rimane“, which means “The river flows, but the water remains”. A humble reminder that while we may move and change, some things remain constant.
After 128 days on the road, I’ve clocked up a total of 3583.8 kilometers, with recent stops including Riccione, Pennabilli, Riccione again (I can’t resist their gelato), Rimini, and Urbania. Ah, the tales these cities could tell!
No borders were crossed on this journey, hence, no language changes to note. But, as always, each place whispers its stories in its own unique way.
As I journey further, I carry in my heart not just the miles traversed, but the songs, stories and rich culture of the places visited. A popular local song goes, “Nel blu, dipinto di blu“, meaning “In the blue, painted blue”. A perfect ode to the splendid Italian skies that have been my canopy during this journey.
So, until the next stop, remember: “Il viaggio è la destinazione“, “The journey is the destination”. Stay curious, dear wanderers, and remember – no matter where you go, there you are. Arrivederci!
Wandering Rimini’s Streets
Gnome’s Petite Palette Ponderings
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Rimini.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Roman Arches and Fellini Farces!
Firstly, Rimini is home to the magnificent Arch of Augustus, or as locals say, “Arco di Augusto”. Erected in 27 BC, it’s the oldest surviving Roman archway and an impressive piece of architectural heritage. Standing tall under it, one could hear the echoes of a bygone era whispering tales of valour and Roman grandeur.
Secondly, I enjoyed a hearty laugh at the Federico Fellini Museum. This place is a tribute to the eponymous Fellini, Italy’s most celebrated film director and a native son of Rimini. Italians often say, “Ride bene chi ride l’ultimo”, which means “He who laughs last, laughs best”. Well, Fellini’s cinematic genius had me laughing first, last, and all the way through!
Rimini, you’re a treasure trove of historical marvels and cultural richness. Can’t wait to explore more of you!
Prosciutto’s Pace, Piada’s Perfection!
Buongiorno from the vibrant city of Rimini! Here’s a recipe for a local delicacy, Piada.
To start, you’ll need 500g of flour, 75g of lard, a pinch of salt, and 200ml of water. Mix them together to form a dough. Roll the dough into thin discs and cook on a hot plate. As we say in Italy, “La pazienza è la virtù dei forti” (Patience is the virtue of the strong), so take your time!
Fill with prosciutto, squacquerone cheese, and arugula. Then, fold it in half and enjoy your Piada! As the locals say, “Buon appetito!” (Enjoy your meal!)
Remember, the secret of a good Piada is in the dough. So, “Non avere fretta, la fretta è nemica della perfezione” (Don’t rush, haste is the enemy of perfection).
Gnome’s Guide: Rimini Revels
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 