Roman Holiday

As much as we were sorry to leave Cefalu, we were just as happy to be heading to Rome!

We grabbed a one hour train back to Palermo, then jumped on a bus to take us to the airport. A few hours later we were on board Vueling Airlines for the short flight to "The Eternal City."

We were picked up by Alfredo, a very nice gentleman who was renting us the AirBnB apartment we were going to stay in.

We were also really looking forward to this stop on our journey, as Michelle's brother Ryan (who lives in Vancouver) was meeting up with us. 

After a good night's sleep, it was time to put our sightseeing shoes back on. We only had two days in Rome and we wanted to make the most of them (especially because the weather for the next day was on the "iffy" side).

The Romans Really Left Everything In Ruins

One bus and two subway rides later, we climbed up from the underground and for the first time truly felt like we were in Rome! We walked to the gated opening to Palatine Hill and bought tickets there that would allow us to also see the Roman Colosseum. Palatine Hill is the center-most of the Seven Hills of Rome and is also one of the most ancient parts of the city. 

Palatine Hill stands 40 meters (131 feet) above the Roman Forum.

The Roman Forum.

From the entrance to Palatine Hill you can also see one of the many famous arches scattered throughout Rome. The Arch of Constantine is found between Palatine Hill and the Colosseum. It was erected in the year 312. 

The Arch of Constantine.

One Of The 7 Wonders Of The Modern World

The lineup for tickets to see the Colosseum was staggering! Luckily, we picked up tickets that would allow us to enter the Colosseum when we were at Palatine Hills. There was no lineup at Palatine Hills, so we saved hours not having to line up at the Colosseum box office. Michelle's research once again paid off in time saved. 

It was a gorgeous morning to see the Colosseum. At times the sun was so bright it made the blue sky all but disapperar in our photos. 

No one was allowed down to the lowest level (perhaps some lions are still unaccounted for), but it was really interesting seeing how the lanes were set up and trying to picture what it was like when it was open so long ago. At full capacity the Colosseum seated 50,000 people.

After touring the Colosseum it was time to keep walking. We found that many sites were possible to find on foot if you are willing and able to hoof it quite a distance. We walked in the direction of the Roman Forum, and on the way came across the Arch of Titus. It was constructed in 82 A.D. If it looks somewhat familiar, that is because it was the model for many "triumphal arches", most notably the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

Arch of Titus.

Up and down stair cases we went and were constantly surprised by the buildings, history and views that we found around every corner. Ryan had done much of the research for this walking tour and we were thankful to him and his phone for the maps!

When we felt we could go no longer and had to cool our overheated feet, we found a delightful restaurant on a small side street. The owner seemed overjoyed to get some customers and repeatedly told us after we told him our choice each selection was, "The best in the city!" I don't know if any of us felt quite that strongly afterwards, but it was a good meal, and he was a very nice man.

The Pantheon

Not far from the restaurant we came to the Pantheon. It is truly something to behold. It is a circular building with a central opening to the sky. The building is almost 2,000(!) years old, and it is still the world's largest reinforced concrete dome. Amazingly, it has been in use throughout its history, and has been used as a church (dedicated to St. Mary and the Martyrs") since the 7th century.

A quaint toy store was found not far from the Pantheon. Everything inside was made of wood, and this being Italy, of course there were plenty of Pinocchios for sale (or to pose as and with).

Taking Things One Step At A Time

We all had our hopes up about jumping into Trevi Fountain like Anita Ekberg did in "La Dolce Vita". No such luck! The fountain was drained, as it is receiving a major restoration. Probably for the best. No need to possibly get thrown in jail. 

One of our favourite movies is "Roman Holiday" starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. We wanted to see as many sites as possible shown in the movie, and knew we had to seek out the famous "Spanish Steps". Locals and tourists alike were sitting on the steps soaking in the sun. The view from the top wasn't too bad, either. 

With all of the major sites that we really wanted to see checked off, we decided to simply roam around Rome, and take pictures of whatever caught our eye.

So much history! Canada's past is so short in comparison that it is hard to really grasp all that has transpired in this city and by the inhabitants of this city. Amazing.

Tomorrow...Vatican City!