Just left Rome after 4 days of sightseeing and it was spectacular. During college, I was a student of classical and medieval literature and history, mainly Latin language, Greek poetry, history, and Renaissance literature. I knew that someday this would prove its value and it did, in Rome.
What I came to understand first hand this week is Rome stole/copied/borrowed most everything from the Greeks, like architecture and the stories of the mythical gods. Having the classroom knowledge of Greek history came in handy as I pieced together what I learned on the tours I took in Rome.
Another thing I observed was that the Italian language reminded me of Latin and Spanish mixed together. To be sure it is more complicated than that, but I was able to understand more than I thought.
I visited all of the usual sights you would assume: the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish steps, St. Peter's Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and lots in between and was awed by all of Rome's layers. What I didn't expect was how beautiful the city is to just walk around and get lost in. One minute wandering down a cobblestone alley and then turning a corner and being in the most beautiful Piazza Navona. I will say that without the google map app I would have gotten turned around much more than I did! This is the first city I have traveled where I never had a sense of which direction I was heading.
One thing I am still trying to wrap my head around is the number of gelato shops in Rome. There is at least one on every block and they are all busy, from morning to night. I have no idea how the city can support so many, but I think the locals and tourists must eat it at least once a day!
Now I just arrived in the small town of Soriano in the Tuscany/Umbria region to spend a week. So excited to cook, drink wine, and meet new people! Below are some pics from Rome.
