When in Rome Dean Martin's "On an Evening in Roma" was totally stuck in my head all weekend as we explored the Roman city and all of it's ancient glory. So many buildings, churches, statues, art, piazzas, etc, etc, to see and so much to do. I was not expecting Rome to be such a huge city. We did much of our traveling on the metro which was helpful in making time to see as many of Rome's special sitings as possible. "Though there's grinin' and madonlin' in sunny Italy; the beginning has just begun..." Early Saturday morning, we took a shuttle bus to the Vatican City from our hotel. The Sistine Chapel, without a doubt is one of the greatest masterpieces in the world and was first on our agenda. As we finally made it through the seemingly never-ending Vatican Museum, we were engulfed in the hustle and bustle of the many people inside the Chapel admiring the incredible work of Michelangelo. I couldn't believe I was tilting my head back and seeing the depiction of God and Adam with my own two eyes. Simply stunning! Side note: The photo above is mine- I must admit we captured a few when the guards weren't looking. I just had to! Perfect sunny day in Italia! We wandered about for a bit, meeting up with friends that are studying in Rome. It's always lovely to have a "local" to act as our guide around the city. The Pantheon, below, is another incredibly old and beautiful building in Rome. By "old" I mean REALLY old. It's really crazy how long these places have been standing. The Pantheon was built around 27 BC- 14 AD... She looks good for her age, right? So, of all of the many stunning Roman landmarks, the Trevi Fountain stands out to me- partially because it's gorgeous and partially because Lizzie McGuire got my third-grade-self entirely hopeful for my moment at tossing a coin in and making a wish. That being said... the fountain is undergoing a yearlong restoration and cleaning process the same time I am living in Italy, just my luck right? Regardless of the huge scaffolding and the fountain's lack of water, we threw our coins in (*clink*) and made our wishes anyhow! After makin' our wishes in the "fountain"... gelato was on our radar, of course. So, we made a pit stop for THE BEST gelato I've ever eaten, which is saying a lot since I have tried and tasted countless yummy yummy gelaterias since September. But honestly, Giolitti takes the trophy. Anyone planning a trip to Roma, get yourself a large coni con molti gusti from this heaven on earth. Checking out The Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica at night- all lit up and looking gorgeous! Last stop of the evening? The secret bakery. This place is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their freshly made pastries are to die for, any time of the day! A thirty Euro cent warm and gooey Nutella-filled doughnut... cannot think of a more delicious way to end the evening in Roma! Again, we woke up early Sunday morning and headed to the Vatican City. Yet ANOTHER sunny day in Rome! Heading into St. Peter's Basilica ... eeek! The most spectacular altar I've ever seen. The Pieta, below, is Michelangelo's breathtaking statue of Mary holding Jesus' body after the Crucifixion. I could not help but smile as I entered the basilica, being greeted with this statue, because I immediately thought of my Aunt Bea. I remember when I was young she had a small replica of this statue in her living room. Couldn't help but think of her! So beautiful... Pope John Paul II PJP II is laid to rest here. Such a special experience seeing this sacred tomb. And that dome! UGH I never knew that it was possible, but I highly recommend doing so if you ever get the chance... to climb up to the top of the cupola of St. Peter's Basilica. The fantastic panorama view of Rome and seeing all across the Vatican City was amazing. The 551 steps up, through the insanely tiny and narrow staircases, was not the easiest "climb" for me, but SO rewarding. On the way up, we stopped and enjoyed the view from inside, looking down into the basilica; I wasn't into the heights so much but again, the view was just too incredible to not absorb fully. And finally to the tippy top! I love this photo best because of the view of the Vatican Square and the shadow of the basilica to the left. Perfect. This crew has been nothing short of wonderful to travel with; my last experience with them I was jumping off a cliff in Cinque Terre, now conquering my fear of heights- yet again. Gotta love it! Rome, you were absolutely marvelous. Strange , and sad, to say this was my last weekend exploring an Italian city. Where the ech-ee-double hockey sticks has this time abroad gone? Packing for Ireland now. Anticipating this trip immensely as I'm meeting with distant relatives while in Galway and the Islands. I will share the details next week. I hope your weekend is full of smiles, friendship, and adventure!
Ciao! And Sláinte, too! Shine On. -KRIS10
3 Comments
dad
10/30/2014 11:43:51 am
those views really looked awesome Truly amazing the age of all those buildings.Realy enjoyed your pictures and story.Looking forward to hearing all about it when I see you
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Mom
10/31/2014 01:34:57 am
Kristen I am absolutely at a loss for words! How do you say magnificent in Italian?
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Aunt Nikki
10/31/2014 02:42:05 am
Trevi Fountain was under repair last time I was in Rome too. Pictures are great. Did you get to the Spanish steps? Did you see any bats? Great picture of the Colosseum and evening sky. One of my favorite places in Rome along with the rest of the city!! Have fun in Ireland.
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