A Taste of Rome: Millenium Series 16
It is a damp overcast day as we enter the port of Civitavecchia, the port of, Rome. Clara, mom and I meet our driver and head into the green Roman countryside, eventually arriving at the "Eternal City." As we enter the city limits we are immediately faced with the timeless nature of this of this elegant, cosmopolitan place. Our first comception is of high brick walls, the Roman arches,then the splendid Baroque edifices and the plethora of ruins that have stood the test of time. We also notice the vibrant world of today, that is also Rome, the busy,noisy, traffic, the hoards of people, shopping, sightseeing, walking the streets or stopping in a sidewalk café for a quick coffee or a long lunch. Rome is a perfect blend of the old and new.
Our first destination is St Peters. When we arrive we are guards takes over the wheelchair and beckons us to follow him. One of his compatriots comes along to lift the barricades as we pass through. After a short confrontation with a Swiss Guard, we are whisked into a cobbled passage that goes to the back of the church, where there is a ramp. We thank our Samaritans and slowly wend our way, past stone buildings, through arches till we reach the spot where we can enter the church. Here we are helped again by an obliging priest, who is passing by.
Entering the fabled Basilica is an experience not soon forgotten. The splendor of gold, the masterpieces, the frescos, the statuary, the architecture and inlaid floors are almost too much to take in. After touring all the large chambers and nooks and alcoves, we leave the church, in time to meet our driver.
It is raining much heavier now, so we opt for a driving tour. Our next stop is the oldest and most important, Roman Forum. which was the center of political, business, religious and social life. It was the meeting place.
After a short drive we arrive at the magnificent Coloseum, which at one time held up to 87,000 people. It was built, then inaugurated by Emperor Vesppasiano in 85 AD and was originally called Anfiteatrum Favium. It was used for gladiator fights, navy battles, and hunts for wild animals.
Beneath the floor of the arena,(nearly 40 feet deep) is a warren of corridors, which housed the animals, the slaves and plumbing. The arena could be flooded for water events. There are tiers of seats circling the coloseum. Where you sat indicated your social status.
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