Classic Rome

Taking the trains into Rome was easy, on time and inexpensive.

The Coliseum.

15,000 people visit here each day.

Inside - an amazing feat for mankind 2,000 years ago.

The cross marks the spot where the emperors sat.

Happy family.

View of the vicotyr arch outside.

Arch of Constentine (312 AD)

Learning about the part below the surface.

Arch of Septimius Severus.

Temple of Julius Ceaser - where his cremated remains were held after he became a god.

Forum.

Temple of Vesta. 

Pantheon.

Dome of the Pantheon - the top is open.

Inside the Pantheon.

Rome.

Having had a full day - Maria reads to the girls on the trian back to Casperia.

Following three days of relaxing in Casperia, we headed into Rome to see the sites. We took the train as we were told it was easy,  inexpensive and a good way to avoid the traffic and parking challenges in Rome. Great idea.

We found that tour guides are a good investment. We arranged for a guide in advance. Luca was waiting for us when we arrived for our first day of exploring. We divided the days up between seeing the coliseum, forum and the pantheon. It was an fantastic experience. The fact that so much of the coliseum remains despite it being 2,000 years old and it being used as a quarry for newer buildings was incredible.  It is a magnificent structure and a fitting remnant of all that was the Roman Empire.

Following the coliseum, we headed to see the remnants of the forum, what was once the center or Roman government, commerce and celebration.  Along the way we learned more about Roman history from Luca.

Lastly, we visited the Pantheon, one of the best preserved Roman buildings. It has been a working church since the 7^th century, which is probably why it was so well preserved. The dome is incredible, as it is incredibly large.

Following a lunch of pizza, we strolled down the streets of Rome and took in the city – its sites, people and sounds. Though we came back from Rome tired, it was a great day and left us excited for day 2.