We celebrated Lady Deborah's birthday Tuesday; yes, once again, our family gave praise to The Lady!
Now, for the main topic of today; let's travel to Rome, Italy.
My bride and I have been to the Eternal City several times over the past few decades. Since Rome is not located adjacent to an ocean, all our visits have been via a Mediterranean Sea cruise ship, docked at the Italian port city, Civitavecchia. The two large cities are a little more than an hour (53 miles) via tour bus or automobile on a high-speed highway. Rome is a featured stop on many Western Mediterranean cruise schedules, and most vessels arrange their stay to last at least 10 hours Smaller ocean cruise ships sometime stay overnight, allowing many land excursion opportunities in Rome. It is Italy's capital and largest city, population about 3 million people. It has over 10 million visitors each year. The historic Tiber River flows through the center of the city. Rome's history spans 28 centuries, and as a tourist, there is something to see at each and every turn in the Eternal City..
So, what are the seven (7) absolute, must-do, things to see/do in Rome, dear readers in Our Town and far beyond?
I will discuss, in my humble opinion, the minimum attractions to visit, in order of their importance. Correctly, a visitor could spend a couple of weeks in Rome, seeing sites. Therefore, I will only list a few of the top-tier places to experience, and a few comments of each site..
1. Vatican City state. This is the world's smallest independent country in both size, a mere 121 acres, and population, 825 residents. It is completely surrounded by Rome, located in the northwest part of the huge city. Within its walled borders are the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica and frontal plazas, and the Vatican Museums. One could easily spend several days, simply within the Vatican City state. The small Sistine Chapel (134-feet long, 44-feet wide and 68-feet tall) was constructed in 1473-1481. It houses the incredible artistic works of Michelangelo and Raphael. The chapel ceiling displays The Creation from the Book of Genesis, and the front altar fresco is The Last Judgment. These works of art established the pinnacle for priceless treasures worldwide, in my opinion. The chapel is the site a new pope is selected, indicated by black smoke (not yet) or white smoke (yes!). coming from a rooftop chimney..
St. Peter's Basilica is one of the world's largest churches. It's central dome dominates the skyline of Rome, It was completed in 1626, the Renaissance-style church and frontal, two open courtyards, compose 5.7 acres. The two forecourt, outside areas are able to accommodate 80,000 worshipers when the pope speaks from his outside church balcony. At the church entrance are two 18-foot statues of Saints Peter and Paul. The church interior has many historical features and icons, and creates lifetime memories for visitors (us!).
The Vatican Museums contain 70,000 works, and 20,000 are on public display. The museums celebrated their 500th anniversary in 2006. Its visitors are dazzled with priceless exhibits of jewelry, religious items, and artworks. Many of the items seen are simply beautiful and breathtaking.
2. Colosseum. It is one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World. It is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, and was completed in 80 AD. The colosseum was able to hold up to 80,000 people, and the audiences watched gladiators battle, and Christians fight various wild animals. Tourists are offered guided tours of the incredible structure, much of it still standing after almost 20 centuries.
3. Roman Forum. The center of everyday life in ancient Rome. This site is near the Colosseum, and attracts an estimated 4.5 million visitors yearly. It was the scene of triumphal processions following military victories, public elections, important speeches, criminal trials, and the site of commercial affairs. It has been called the most celebrated meeting place in the history of the world!
4. Pantheon. This Roman "Temple to the Gods" was completed in 125 AD. The structure is cylindrical. and displays impressive Corinthian columns.
The dome is 142-feet off the floor, and the building's interior is strikingly beautiful. It is estimated 6 million folks visit it each year.
5. Trevi Fountain. Built in 1762, it is 86-feet high and 161-feet wide. The 1954 motion picture "Three Coins in the Fountain" and its Academy Award winning song of the same name, caused coin-tossing into the fountain to become even more famous. The "correct" way to do it is to use your right hand to throw your coins over your left shoulder, hopefully bringing you good luck. The donated coins are used to subsidize a supermarket for Rome's needy people. The steps in front of the fountain are usually crowded during daylight hours, and it is well-lighted for night viewing.
6. Spanish Steps. These are 135 steep, concrete steps, completed in 1725. They connect the Piazza di Spagna at the base, with the top, dominated by the Trinita dei Monti church. The physically-challenging steps are usually crowded with people, and upon reaching the top, the view of Rome is spectacular.
7. The Mausoleum of the Roman Emperor Hadrian (also called the Castel Sant'Angelo). It was built in 123-139 AD, and was the tallest building in Rome. The connecting bridge over the Tiber River is lined with various large angel statues. Today, the building is a wonderful museum.
Wow. What a whirlwind tour. However, remember, MANY attractions were omitted, but those listed are the highest on the chart, in my mind.
Enjoy Rome. Simply stated, it is a city for the ages.
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