We live in a city punctuated by contradictions: From the lush courtyards and gardens of palace estates, to roads that inevitably take us to cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways. People thrive wherever they can, wherever that may be. Like my friend who has settled in a small flat behind the plaza near the Basilica. Lately I find myself visiting her there. But we rarely stay in. She’d rather take walks to affluent spaces that makes her feel free.