Spanish Steps - Rome

The Spanish Steps are known for many things. Built to lead up to the Spanish embassy to the Holy See, they have been a gathering place for centuries.

In the 18th century, potential models would wait here, hopeful to be selected by the artists of the day. To this day, it is still a famous gathering spot - mostly for foreigners.

I went there are few times during my stay. Usually a group of us from the hostel would head there to meet friends and take in the scene. Musicians and street venders would add to the ambiance.

On one of our visits, we made good use of the McDonalds that was nearby. We stocked up on rounds of "McWine" to be shared amongst our group. Nights like this form some of my fondest memories and made traveling alone through Europe one of the best experiences of my life.

I took this shot on the last night, when an unexpected shower scattered the many travelers into the night.

                    - Art Whitton