OK, this entry will take you through ancient Roma.
Perhaps the most well know monument is the Flavian Amphitheater, but because of the mammoth 100′ tall statue of Nero that used to adorn the entrance. However, today it’s simply known as the Colosseum.
Here you can see a re-creation where the floor of the of the Colosseum was. This perspective allows you to see the inner workings below. Gladiators, or animals could be moved around under and raised up to the surface. Can you imagine seeing African animals like lions, elephants or rhinos for the first time ever as they were used in gladiatorial contests?
It was in use for nearly 500 years (after it was completed in 80 AD by the emperor Titus). It could hold 80,000 people. The form of the Colosseum is nearly identical to that of our modern arenas.
Unfortunately, earthquakes destroyed much of the south side in the mid 14th century.
That evening, we explored several of the piazzas. This one is one of the most famous: Piazza Navona.
The next morning, we went to a sprawling Sunday market on the left bank of the Tiber River. We began at the Porta Portese and walked for a couple hours, but never actually reached the end. We had read it was the grandfather of flea markets, and it certainly was huge.
Next, we headed out to the outskirts of Rome to see an ancient road that connected Rome to the sea. It was designed to carry foot traffic on the sides and animal powered vehicles in the center. Here are some pictures of animal powered traffic.
Our last afternoon was spent pursuing several fascinating museums. The first one is the National Museum of Rome.
As you can see they have a Roman copy of the famous Greek discus thrower by Myron.
And the busts of the Caesars.
The final museum was the Borghese Gallery. Unfortunately, cameras were again not allowed inside. However, inside, it was a very pleasing blend of art in building, decorating, painting and sculpture.
Here is the outside of one of our new favorite art museums.
I have to add this quick addendum: for nearly a day, my batteries died. So, Jen was kind enough to let me use her camera. When I look through those images, I may add more to this post (or create another one). So, keep checking back.
Well, that concludes our experience in Rome. It was an outstanding trip and has showed us that Rome is one of our top 5 favorites cities in the world.
We have another trip planned next week to Switzerland. So, I should have some more images to share with you all soon. For those who don’t know, it looks like I will be gone for a while starting next month. So, my postings will either slow down (not that I post that often), or stop for a while. So, we will have to make this next trip memorable.
Until then…
–Jim
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