Day 2: A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum
On this day, we toured the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Francesca, a fantastic local guide, led us through each of these places and explained the rich and interesting history. When I return to Rome, I will definitely want her for a private tour.
Later, a funny thing happened on the way to the forum... the sky opened up and poured rain down on us with a vengeance. Everyone ran for cover, but there was nothing around but ruins. We were soaked, but we all had a good laugh!
Favorite Memories
Breakfast
Every morning, we had a great Italian-American breakfast. Did you know that the egg yolks are much bigger in Italy? (Okay not really, it is just an apricot.)
This is Franceso. He was the most intensely passionate breakfast chef I have ever met and also exactly how I picture an Italian man - charming and full of machismo.
Colosseum
Only a third of the original Colosseum is still standing today. Much of it was looted and used as materials for newer buildings throughout history.
This place felt “colossal” as I tried to imagine a full house with cheering, gladiators, and lions.
We stood here in amazement as Francesca described how more than 500,000 people and a million wild animals (brought in from all over the world) died in the Colosseum games.
Forum and Palatine Hill
The Forum served as a marketplace, business district, and civic center. It also became a home to temples, the Senate, and law courts.
It is kind of tough to find shelter from the rain here.
Arch of Constantine
This arch commemorates Constantine's victory over Maxentius which was key in making Christianity a mainstream religion for the Roman Empire.
Temple of Antoninus and Faustina
At one time, the door of the temple was actually at street level while the staircase was buried (since the Forum had not yet been dug up). The distance from the stairs up to the door is about 19.68 feet!
Latest Papal Fashion
I think this is where the Pope shops.
Doors
All over town, I took pictures of doors. Each one was pretty and different.
Pantheon
The original temple was built by Marcus Agrippa and is the model for St. Peter's, Florence Cathedral, and the Capitol in Washington, D.C.
It is difficult to describe how amazing the Pantheon was on the inside. We sat there for awhile just soaking in the grandeur.
The 30 foot opening at the top is the building's only light source.
St. Peter's Square
On our way home from dinner, we stopped by St. Peter's Square and got some cool evening shots.
