The ancient city of Rome is famous for many historic monuments (which many tourists line up to visit every year), but sometimes, some real antique monuments are seen by looking down, and not admiring upwards. A feature of the city which many take for granted, (just walking all over them) are the characteristic cobblestones that pave the streets, especially in the historic centre.

Either loved or hated by the Romans, the cobblestones known as Sampietrini (selcio – or sercio in roman dialect – or Sanpietrini) are often a topic for either light conversation or heated debate.  They can be charming to look at and photograph, but at the same time they can be dangerous, and sometimes fatal if maintenance has fallen behind.