Photo credit - La Rinascente
The high end chain of fashion stores known as La Rinascente was founded in Milan in 1917 by merging two businesses together. The name, meaning 'rebirth' was credited to the poet D'Annunzio. Today there are 11 stores in major Italian cities
Sadly I am not in the designer shopper league but that doesn't stop me from absolutely loving the Rinascente Department Store on Via del Tritone.
There is an actual working aqueduct in the basement. The Aqua Virgo was constructed in 19BC by Marcus Agrippa and it still provides water today to many fountains in the city including the Trevi.
The aqueduct can be seen in a beautifully designed area that includes a light show projected onto the walls.
The archtecture inside the store is stunning with a glass ceilinged central hall that brings light to every floor.
On the top floor is a gourmet food hall with local products such as salami & cheeses from the Lazio & Campania regions. Ideal for last minute foodie souvenirs, especially as the store stays open until 11.00 pm.
Also on this floor is Vivi Bistrot, one of our favourite cafes for healthy and tasty food.
However, if I had to give only one reason why I love this store so much it would be for the sunset views from the roof. Absolutely magical