I am sitting in front of the ancient Roman Colosseum. I am taking it all in...The sounds of the traffic, the whistle of the traffic policeman, the man sitting next to me, speaking Italian. I LOVE this! Here is some history on the Colosseum.......The Colosseum is the largest amphitheatre ever built in the Roman Empire. It is considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and Roman engineering. It's construction started in 72 AD and was completed in 80 AD. Capable of seating 50,000 spectators, the Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles such as, animal hunts, executions, and dramas. The building ceased to be used for entertainment in the earlymedieval era. It was later reused for such purposes as housing, workshops and a Christian shrine.
A photo of me outside the Colosseum.
A photo of me inside the Colosseum.
My hand touching the walls of the ancient Roman Colosseum.
After touring the beautiful Colosseum, we visited the haunting sites of the Roman ruins. Julius Caesar Augustus said, "I found Rome a city of brick and left it a city of marble," and that he did. I can only imagine what this city would have looked like in it's day. Julius Caesar Augustus is considered the first emperor of the Roman Empire, which he ruled alone from 27 BC until his death in 14 AD.
Flowers are left at the site of Julius Caesar's cremation.
So much extraordinary art and so little time to see it. I am now in the Vatican Museum working my way to the Sistine Chapel.
Soon I am about to turn the corner to walk into the Sistine Chapel. Tears come to my eyes, I am so excited and so happy to have had this amazing opportunity! I feel like I am dreaming!
Ohhh, The Sistine Chapel!! It is one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen! Oh, the colors of the painting! Michelangelo was so cool! I wish I could stand here for along time. But, we are off to dinner. Kelly and I toasted to our last night in Italy with a glass of Flute Di Spumante and I enjoyed some spaghetti and meatballs and chocolate cake! Tomorrow will be my last entry as we depart for America!