Ancient Rome is so Fascinating

Well today was my day to be educated on ancient Rome. At 10am today I met Marle from South Africa who was to be my guide. I ended up having my own personal tour since no one else showed up. It was wonderful to hear the stories and explanations behind all the layers of foundations and buildings that remain throughout the Roman Forum and Palantine Hill. To be able to walk the roads that have been walked by many over thousands of years was so humbling. Plus to understand how Rome evolved and how you can see the layers of foundations and stone work which shows how the city changed over the century was so fascinating. Marle was able to really explain all of this well to me.

Marle than took me to a really nice french bistro where we had a light lunch and wuonderful wine. I think we were there for 2 hours. Of course by the time I walked out with her, we found that for some reason the Colloseum was closed. She said this was unexpected but at the same time it does happen for no reason at all. I am planning on meeting her tomorrow at 8:30 at the Colloseum to finish the tour with her. However, instead of this she took me to the San Clementine church which has been greatly excavated and it is near the Colloseum. Priests from this church excavated under the church to find many walkways and buildings that had become buried over centuries and used to be level with the colloseum. So I essentially got a free tour of the church. What a bonus! Anyways, I had a wonderful day and she was even helpful getting me onto the right bus to get back to my b&b. I was very fortunate to meet her.

On the way back to my b&b, I ended up meeting up with one of the other guests who was on their own as well and we spent the evening walking through the old part of Rome. Once again she is from Germany and we plan on staying in touch. We had some wine while we people watched and tried out another gelato store. Another great find! I am glad I don't live in Italy since I couldn't resist the gelato. I would have to find a way to not gain weight from eating it here.

A couple things I want to comment on is I forgot how Italians have really skinny doors here. I will never understand why the doors into any buildings are so skinny. You can't squeeze through the doors if you have a backpack on your shoulder. I wonder why they build them this way.

Also, this isn't the best picture but I find it amazing how Italians just park their cars anywhere they can find space. There are a lot more smart cars here but even more motorbikes because of the parking issue. I couldn't imagine driving a car here.

Dave I should also tell you that I have seen motorbikes with front wind shields that go over the driver which must protect them from rain. I have seen more than a few here.

Well I think that is for all. I have to get ready for bed since I have a long day tomorrow. I have to run to the Colloseum to meet Marle at 8:30 and than back to the Vatican at 11am. I am doing the my tours of the Vatican tomorrow. I am really excited about what I am going to see tomorrow. It should be amazing. The weather should continue to be nice and warm as well tomorrow.

Good night all and talk to you tomorrow! Note: I have pictures on the next page from today.