Hello, yes, we are back from the dead. Don't worry; nothing happened to us. Just Rome lacks the resources of the 21st century and Internet is a scarce resource that is denied from all those not possessing an Italian SIM card for their phone. Guess no tourists can entice future visitors with blog posts regaling their adventures. But to make up for lost time, we are now in Athens, Greece happily awaiting our next plane ride to Santorini, Greece. If you don't know of it, take a moment to google image its name and be prepared to be jealous. A recap of our life in Rome, though, since that is the subject of this post. We saw all of the major attractions: the Colosseum, the Vatican museums, St. Peter's basilica, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish steps, the Roman Forum, and much more less notable ruins dating from the second and third century. Here are a few of our favorite pictures:
So for all of the Catholics reading along, the Vatican was an impressive showing. While we were unable to take pictures in the Sistine Chapel, so you won't see 'The Last Judgement' and 'The Creation of Adam', we did some other pretty ornate ceilings. So decorated that by the time we got to the Sistine Chapel, we were almost desensitized to the beauty of gold crowning and detailed frescos. But it truly was an amazing sight. And the sheer volume of art! I believe the Catholic Church is attempting a corner on all relics. We started going through three 400+ yard hallways completely full on each side of sculptures before seeing a 2000 year old Egyptian corpse de-mummified. Pretty neat stuff. And St. Peter's house was pretty surreal too. My pictures were pretty bad because it was dark and lofty, but we did see the Swiss guards! The Pope was busy though...
That's all from the Ruins of Rome! While overall, not our favorite Italian city, it was definitely full of history, action and some crazy people. For those of you who prefer Jon's take, don't worry; he will be back in Greece. And we will attempt to not be Pompeii-Ed by Santorini's very active volcano. Just kidding, Mom...
Until we meet again!
A
Until we meet again!
A
Volcano? Maybe you better go back to the wild boars. Or at least the dark, dank hallways of the Catholic relics. They were safe, weren't they? Well glad to see you back online. We're getting ready for Memorial Day weekend here. I bet they don't have that in Greece. Take a few minutes this weekend to remember the sacrifice others have made in order for all of us to be able to enjoy the good, ole American life - as you two demonstrate in great abundance. Waiting to hear from you again.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you are BACK! From this side of the pond it is hard to imagine being desensitized to the Sistine Chapel. I know you two have been on "cultural overload" for two weeks which is why Santorini is the perfect antidote. Sunsets and beautiful beaches...great way to wind down your adventure. Looking for your next post! Jan
ReplyDeleteCurious to why Rome wasn't a favorite of yours. Was it too busy and bustling? You saw a great deal while you were there though. I am anxious to read your Greek adventures. Be sure to try the native Baklava. I had a Greek friend while growing up and her grandma's baklava was the best I ever ate. Grandma only spoke Greek so Baklava was the real deal.
ReplyDeleteHey guys, by now you're on Santorini. You can have a real laid back relaxing last few days in Europe. Hopefully by the time you return here next Friday it will be dry and warm.
ReplyDeleteNothing too exciting going on here,at least with Jan and I. So in a spare moment take some good pictures,and blog when you can but most importantly have fun.
Dave