"Foro Italico : Black + White Mosaics" Parks & Gardens Tip by von.otter

“Fascism is a religion. The twentieth century will be known in history as the century of Fascism.”
— Benito Mussolini (1883-1945)

Il Duce was right about what the 20th century will be remembered for. The pain and destruction brought about by Fascism will long out live this political philosophy. It produced few good things.

Foro Italico, a sports complex in the north of Rome, built in the 1920s as a testament to the culture of power and strength as exemplified through athletic prowess is a notable exception to the destructive nature of Fascism.

It is well worth the small amount of effort needed to get to Foro Italica if you enjoy sculptural art as much as I do. See von.otter’s Rome Travelogue, 'Marble Athletes', and my Rome Things-To-Do Tip, “Foro Italico : Stadio dei Marmi” for more details and more photos, about the stadium.

In addition to the marble athletes, the courtyards between buildings are paved with black and white mosaics. These simple but effective works seek to capture the Ancient Roman art form to glorify a modern-day emperor, Il Duce, and the athlete in action.

Although Foro Italico is located outside Rome's historic center, it is nonetheless easy to reach by public transportation. Take the No. 2 tram from just outside the Porta del Popolo. The stop is to the left and across the street as you exit the gate. Ride the tram to the very last stop. You will need to cross the River Tiber but from the last tram stop you can easily walk to Foro Italico.