Rome. The Eternal City. Its most famous sites include the Colosseum, Forum, Vatican City, St. Peter’s, and the Pantheon. We saw it all!
We began our tours in the morning, starting at the Colosseum. Though it was only 9:30, it was already hot! Mr. Ciufo, led the tour through the amphitheater, explaining its history, construction, and importance.
From there, we visited the Roman Forum along Via Sacra, where emperors, senators, and gladiators would have walked centuries ago. Mrs. Curk and Ms. Milne directed our students to some of the most important ruins, including the Arch of Titus, Temple of Vesta, and the Temple of Romulus, whose original bronze doors remain after standing for 17 centuries.
After a short lunch break at the Spanish Steps, we made our way to Vatican City, for a tour of the museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. In the museums, we saw ancient Roman sculptures, the map and tapestry galleries, and of course, the famous Raphael rooms.
Through the Sistine Chapel, we entered St. Peter’s Basilica. The burning incense and sunlight made for incredible photographs.
Students had the option of a walking tour afterward, where we saw Castle Sant’Angelo, Piazza Navona and Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, the Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain.
There was free time afterward for dinner before heading back to Lanciano. We have a full week of classes before our next trip to Florence and Tuscany.
I would like to thank the students and teachers for battling the heat and maintaining such enthusiasm all day long. Also, thank you to all who contributed photos to this blog.