Peace and Rest in Rome

The Protestant Cemetery packs a lot into a small space. Hidden behind the busy Pyramide train station, it is a cat sanctuary, botanical garden, park, and cemetery combined. It is also a tourist site. While endless Roman churches have prepared me to see sacred spaces as also places of spectacle for visitors, taking pictures in a place of grief created some discomfort for me. That being said, it's also one of my favorite places in Rome. It's significantly cooler, quieter, and more beautiful than much of the city. The kitties tend to be more friendly than the feral cats at most sanctuaries and the volunteer staff is also very friendly. The space also helps remind one just how many Catholics really live in Rome, as the "Protestant Cemetery" serves all non-Catholics, including many of the visiting population and the city's Jewish population. Certain graves are considered of special interest, including Keats, Shelley, and Gramsci. In my opinion, it's the overall ambiance that makes the space special.