Rome

Saturday afternoon I flew from London to Rome. As we got over the Mediterranean I was able to actually follow on the map where we were to the point that I saw Livorno from the air (couldn't make out Tirrenia). We landed about an hour before dark. It was warm and SUNNY - I smiled as soon as I got off the plane (hey, I'm from Seattle).

My fledgling Italian skills were immediately put to the test as the train I was to take from the airport to downtown (nearly 30 miles away) was closed due to repairs. I shortly found myself dragging my luggage through the streets of the center of downtown Rome with thousands of people milling about on a Saturday night. I wasn't quite sure where the bus had dropped me off in relation to the train station. Fortunately the hotel was extremely close by!

I really liked Rome. The amount of history there is astounding. Ruins dating back to Jesus' time were all around. Unfortunately I saw it on a Sunday when much of it was closed. Most everyone else had arrived Saturday. Then again, I didn't have to fight jet lag, so I saw a lot in one day.

If I go back, Rome is where I really want to spend most of my time. I was there just long enough to realize how much there is to see.

Above is the Fountain of Trevi.

Above is the Victor Emanuel Monument, which contains Italy's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It was my favorite monument despite being fairly new (late 1800's). I got a painting of it while I was there. I found it interesting how many places you could get reasonably priced original paintings of the local attractions.

Here is the inside of the Coliseum. A wood floor in covered the area in the center. Gladiators, slaves, and exotic animals came in thru trap doors that lead from the tunnels.