Rome
Rome has so much to offer - dining, fashion, art, and history. For me, walking among the ancient sites on a sunny day, was the highlight. How can I even describe it? Rome is a living museum. Just walk down the street and there are statues, ancient buildings, and archaeological sites being worked. The history of Rome dates back over two and a half thousand years and evidence of its powerful empire and religious influences can be seen throughout.
On this trip, we stayed at a hotel on the outskirts of downtown. However, I would recommend getting a room right in the core. That way, you can enjoy the tourist attractions by day, have a rest, then take in the city's nightlife just outside your door.
We started exploring at the Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater. This large open arena played host to countless battles between animals and gladiators, as well as mock sea battles staged to entertain.
Rome has so much to offer - dining, fashion, art, and history. For me, walking among the ancient sites on a sunny day, was the highlight. How can I even describe it? Rome is a living museum. Just walk down the street and there are statues, ancient buildings, and archaeological sites being worked. The history of Rome dates back over two and a half thousand years and evidence of its powerful empire and religious influences can be seen throughout.
On this trip, we stayed at a hotel on the outskirts of downtown. However, I would recommend getting a room right in the core. That way, you can enjoy the tourist attractions by day, have a rest, then take in the city's nightlife just outside your door.
We started exploring at the Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater. This large open arena played host to countless battles between animals and gladiators, as well as mock sea battles staged to entertain.
From the Colleseum, we walked up Via di San Giovanni to Basilica di San Clemente a twelfth century church built on top of a fourth century church, which was built on top of a first century church. All can be explored, however pictures are not allowed. We learned that San Clemente was a disciple of St. Peter and the third pope after him (although that appears to be debatable with different sources).
The Arch of Constantine was erected to commemorate his victory in the battle Milvian Bridge on October 28, 312.
After a relaxing lunch and a cold drink at one of the many outdoor cafes, we continued our stroll through the historic streets of Rome. We passed forums, temples and statues and watched archaeological students as they dusted and sampled. Palentine Hill is one of the most ancient areas of Rome. Augustus, Cicero, and Marc Antony all had homes here. Many emperors built their homes here and, at one point, the entire hill was covered with palaces.