- I booked a full day tour of Rome. I had been warned by friends, Sue and Bruce that this tour would involve lots of walking and very little rest. They weren’t kidding. After my morning cappuccino I was on my way.
- A nice way to start my day!
The first stop was The Colesseum. This amphitheatre was built in 72-80AD. It held over 50,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, executions, and re-enactments of famous battles and dramas. It was ruined due to earthquakes and stone-robbers – which included those from the Vatican!
- Palatine Hill is the most central of the “seven hills” of Rome. It overlooks the Roman Forum and is in one of the oldest parts of the city. There are ruins of homes and castles built in the 1st century B.C.
The Roman Forum was where religious and public life in Ancient Rome took place. After the fall of the Empire it was forgotten and little by little it was buried. It was not excavated until the 20th century.
A beautiful view of the city of Rome can be seen from the top of the hill.
The Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountains in Rome and one of the most famous fountains in the world. They say that if you throw a coin over your left shoulder you will return to Rome. I didn’t have to throw a coin in to know I will be back some day!
The Pantheon is a former Roman Temple and is now a church in the heart of the city. It is the most preserved and influential building in Rome. It has a hole at the top of the dome – with no glass window. There are no other windows in the building.
Typical Rome street view – such a beautiful city.
This concluded my great tour of Rome. All I wanted at this point was a nice warm tub to soak my feet – and then and pack for my train to Venice!
