Rome

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It is remarkable that it is still there. Much of the materials were taken from the colosseum to build churches and other structures. While we were there they were in the process of reconstructing sections of the colossuem which was very interesting to observe. We were fortunate enough to run into one of the people that was in charge of the research and had a long conversation with him about the process. It was really incredible how much was still there for them to work with.

Outside the colossuem there are people trying to sell things and I suggest you be careful about buying and also be careful with your wallets.

It is room after room of incredible treasures from all over the world and from every era of art history. My favorites were the magnificant Tapestries, the gold crosses and jeweled chalices.

They say that only about 2% of the art and treasures displayed in the public areas of the museum. I can't imagine how so much art could be in one place.

This is a must see and leave plenty of time to see it all.

The statues in the Church are very beautiful. Micheal Angelo's famous La Piata, now protected by glass after an attempt to vandalize it several years ago, is absolutley breathtaking.

You can also go to the top of the dome to the roof of the church. An elevator takes you to the first balcony overlooking the main altar; to reach the roof you must climb a lot of very narrow steep steps, but if you can physically do it, it is well worth the trip. The view of Rome from the roof was just too beautiful to describe.

The Swiss Guards, still wearing the uniforms designed by Micheal Angelo, are very interesting. We did manage to make one of them smile.

At the top of the Dome there is a small gift shop and a mailbox to mail your postcards that are postmarked from Vatican City.

It is near a lot of interesting things to see and well worth going to the area where it is located. It is just a part of seeing Rome!

There is a great little neighborhood near the Church of Trinita. In the evening there are vendors selling lots of food items such as fresh fruit, roasted nuts and drinks. Artists set up all around the Church and at the base of the steps to sell their work.

The Spanish Steps is a a beautiful sight, and if you like to look at pretty men, too, you will really appreciate the view.